11 Tips to Keep You Safe on Social Media
Social Media is keeping us connected, especially in the uncertain times of the COVID-19 pandemic. It allows you to show off your cat doing a backflip, or that delicious fried chicken recipe you “created”. It’s a way for us to stay preoccupied and connected with our friends and families.
Although social media is a great way to stay in touch, people often forget the security risks that emerge when using these platforms. Cybercriminals utilize social media to access personal information that can then be exploited for future use.
Here are some tips to keep yourself safe while using social media:
Know Who Your Friends Are
One of the first things a cybercriminal will do to try and gain access to personal information about you is to request to be your friend. Make sure the people you’re “friending” on social media apps are vetted, and actual people you know and trust.
Know What You’re Agreeing to When Connecting Third Party Apps
Many third party apps such as mobile games require users to connect a social media account in order to use the app. When you allow these apps to access your social media accounts, be sure to understand their terms and what you are agreeing to. By granting them access, you’re providing them not only with information about yourself, but about the friends you have on that social media platform as well.
Customize your Privacy Settings
Avoid allowing your information to be seen by the public. Keep things private – only allow friends and family to see your info.
Be Cautious of Links
Be careful when clicking on any kind of link that is sent to you. Whether it’s a web address, attachment, download or anything sent via social media, take precautions before you click. Even if the link is coming from a legitimate friend or family member, there is still the possibility that their account was hacked.
Do Your Research
Most social media websites have a list of great security tips you can take to remain safe while using their service. Take the time to educate yourself on their guidelines before using the platform.
Mix it up with your Passwords
Do not use the same password for all of the different sites you use. If a breach occurs and somebody gains access to your password, they’ll then have the password to all of your accounts. Switch up your password based on different sites you use. It’s also good practice to not reuse old passwords.
Be Mindful of the Content you Post
Many don’t think of it, but it is possible to be reprimanded – even fired – from your job for posting offensive content to your social media accounts. Be mindful of the type of content you’re posting to your pages.
Turn Off Auto-Geotagging
Auto-geotagging is when GPS information is tagged with your status updates. Turn this setting off. This gives hackers your exact location. This is dangerous for a multitude of reasons and can be a risk to your physical and cyber security.
Keep your Travel Plans Private
This tip is arguably the one that is the hardest to follow - but keep your travel plans private. Do not post about your vacation before or during it. It’s difficult not post that awesome photo you caught of the dolphins jumping out of the ocean, but it’s a huge security risk, leaving you susceptible to a possible home robbery.
If you Might Delete Later, Don’t Post
Deleting a post doesn’t mean it’s gone forever. It requires a little bit of foresight, but just because you attempt to delete an old post that you no longer agree with or a photo you may regret, doesn’t mean it’s gone forever. Chance are it still lives on a server somewhere. There’s even a chance someone took a screenshot of it. Try to be mindful of whether or not you’re going to regret your post later, even if it is tempting to post now.
Ensure You’re OK with your Information Being Shared
Even if there isn’t a data breach on the app that you’re using, your information is still likely to be accessed by others. Just by signing up for a social media app, you’re essentially granting them the right to use your information how they see fit. If you’re not paying for the social media app, you are not a customer, you’re a product. It’s likely some information about you will be shared with advertisers.
Following these tips will provide you with a safer experience when using different social media apps.
Story via Forbes
