We've taken steps to make the Online Hotline as safe as possible by incorporating the latest security technology available. However, some aspects of computer safety are specific to your computer and your individual circumstances. If you need to conceal your activity on the Online Hotline, consider learning how to delete records of your Internet activity by reading through this page.
Once you have finished your session with a RAINN staffer, it is important that you clear your cache and history and erase the cookies on your computer or mobile device. Erasing this data reduces the likelihood that someone who goes into your computer or device would be able to check up on your browsing activity. However, if someone is actively monitoring your computer, erasing this data could alert them to the fact that you are trying to conceal your actions. Being safe means knowing all of your options.
The following links offer instructions on how to clear the cache, history, and cookies from your browser. The directions are operating system and browser specific, so be sure to pay attention to the relevant information for your computer or device.
What is a cache?
The cache is an area of the hard disc where web pages are stored when a page is downloaded from the Internet. It allows for recently viewed pages to be viewed more rapidly on or offline.
What is a web history?
Your web history is a list of the different URLs, or websites, you have visited on a specific browser.
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To see your history on a Mac, type Apple + H.
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To see your history on a PC, type Control + H.
What are cookies?
Cookies are storage files that collect personal information that you have provided to particular vendors on the Internet (e.g., your name, address, phone number, things you have ordered, etc.). Only information you have provided is stored, and cookies are used to speed up the interactive process when you are online with a vendor. For instance, when you go to Amazon.com you may notice that the advertisements seem to be relevant to your interests. That is because your reading and music preferences are stored in cookies so that the web page can advertise specific deals that fit your taste.
Clearing History, Cookies, and Cache for Specific Web Browsers
For Mozilla Firefox:
For Internet Explorer:
For Google Chrome:
Mobile Devices
If you are using a mobile device, we encourage you to check the settings on your phone and your permissions for individual apps to see if there is anything you can do to increase your safety.