Essential Steps to Secure Your Personal Information During Divorce in South Africa

Going through a divorce is not only emotionally taxing but also requires vigilance in securing your personal and financial information. In South Africa, where legal processes can be intricate, taking steps to protect your digital and financial privacy is crucial. This article provides practical tips for safeguarding your personal data, online accounts, and financial security during a divorce.

Change Your Passwords

One of the first steps should be to change the passwords for all your personal accounts. This includes email accounts, social media, online banking and any other digital platforms you use. Choose strong, unique passwords for each account to prevent unauthorized access.

Update Security Questions

Often overlooked, security questions can be an easy way in for someone who knows you well. Make sure to update your security questions and answers. If possible, choose questions that are not publicly known or easily guessed.

Secure Your Devices

If you shared devices with your spouse, such as computers or tablets, ensure you log out of all personal accounts. Consider performing a factory reset on shared devices. Additionally, change any passcodes on personal devices like your phone or laptop.

Revise Banking and Financial Information

It's crucial to update your banking information during a divorce. This might include changing account signatories or updating login details and pins. Notify your bank of your change in marital status, as this can affect how your accounts are handled and accessed.

Review Joint Accounts and Credit Cards

If you have joint bank accounts or credit cards, discuss with your lawyer the best approach to handle these. You might need to close these accounts or remove your spouse as an authorized user to prevent potential financial misuse.

Update Your Will, Policies and Beneficiaries

A divorce is a significant life event that should prompt a review of your will and beneficiaries. This includes not only your will, but also life insurance policies, retirement accounts, and any other places you have named your spouse as a beneficiary.

Keep Your Divorce Lawyer Informed

Throughout your divorce process, keep your divorce lawyer informed of any changes you make, especially those that impact financial or legal documents. They can provide tailored advice to ensure that your actions align with your legal strategy and interests.

Conclusion

Divorce requires careful navigation, not just emotionally and legally, but also in terms of personal data and financial security. By taking proactive steps to safeguard your online presence and financial accounts, you can help ensure a smoother transition into your new life phase. If you are undergoing a divorce and need legal assistance or advice on protecting your personal and financial information, Barter McKellar’s specialist divorce attorneys are here to help. Contact us for expert guidance tailored to your unique situation in South Africa.