4 tips for using social media during your divorce

Many people use their social media to depict themselves as belonging to a particular social class. The rest of us try to be more honest, though few truly document the daily lows as well as the highs.

But when something as big as a divorce happens, it can be very tempting to use Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, Instagram and other social media to vent your emotions and give your side of the story. But doing so can be risky. Your ex (and their divorce attorney) can potentially find anything you put online and use it against you in property division, child custody and other matters.

Safe social media use during divorce

The safest bet is not to post anything on social media, especially about your divorce, until the judge issues the decree. But if you choose to post, following these tips can reduce the possible damage to your case.

• Don’t post anything negative about your ex or other relatives. If they have done something to anger or upset you, vent privately to a trusted friend, loved one or therapist. Focus your posts on positive events and emotions as much as you can.
• Put your privacy settings on the highest levels so that only those you trust the most can see your posts. Unfriend or block anyone you don’t plan on staying in touch with after the divorce. Even still, assume that your ex will see anything you post.
• Resist the temptation to have your friends or relatives who have access to your ex’s social media to spy on them for you. This could backfire and make you look bad.
• Don’t post any intimate nudes or “boudoir” photos of your ex. Like many states, Pennsylvania has a “revenge porn” law, and you could face serious criminal charges.

If you have any questions about social media and divorce, your divorce attorney can provide more detailed tips.