Social Media Security & Privacy
Here are some key things to do for privacy and security when creating a social media account:
- Read the social media site’s terms and conditions. This will give you an understanding of how your data is collected and used.
- Use a strong password. A strong password is at least 12 characters long and includes a mix of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
- Enable two-factor authentication. Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to your account. When you enable two-factor authentication, you’ll be asked to enter a code from your phone in addition to your password when you log in.
- Consider carefully what personal details you provide in your profile. The more information you share, the more vulnerable you are to identity theft and other forms of fraud.
- Adjust your privacy settings. Most social media sites allow you to control who can see your posts. Take some time to adjust your settings so that only the people you want to see your posts can see them.
- Don’t share private information. This includes your full name, address, phone number, and any other personal information that could be used to identify you.
- Be careful about posting photos. Before you post a photo, think about who might be able to see it. If you’re not comfortable with everyone seeing it, don’t post it.
- Be careful about clicking on links. Don’t click on links in posts or messages from people you don’t know. These links could lead to malicious websites that could infect your computer with malware.
- Be aware of phishing scams. Phishing scams are emails or messages that appear to be from a legitimate source, such as a bank or social media site. These emails or messages often contain a link that, when clicked, will take you to a fake website that looks like the real website. Once you enter your personal information on the fake website, the scammer can steal it.
- Avoid social media site posting regrets. Once you post something online, it’s there forever. Think twice before posting anything that you wouldn’t want your future employer or college to see.
By following these tips, you can help protect your privacy and security on social media.
