Security on Social Media
In today’s technology-driven environment, it seems that more people connect online than they do in person. Smartphones, tablets and cloud-based applications are common in most everyone’s lives, helping people share information faster than ever seen before. Social media is a popular way to connect and share. However, it also poses unique security risks. Some of these risks can easily be prevented if users are careful online. Risks may include: cyberbullying, posting personal information online, phishing emails, hacked accounts and viruses or spyware. You may already be safe on social media sites but some of the following below will just illustrate what should be done to stay safe online.
Staying Safe!
- Don’t post personal information online as anyone could see this (even if they are your “friends”).
- Make sure your privacy settings have been changed so only people you are friends with can see your account.
- Don’t post where and when you will be going on holiday as burglars can take advantage of this.
- Don’t pick a username which includes personal information such as where you live.
- Use a strong password.
- Never post horrible comments online as they may be offensive to somebody.
- Be careful with what you post online as future employer’s look at social media accounts and what you post online may cost you a job.
- Watch out for phishing scams for example ‘You have won a iPhone 6’
- Make sure you have antivirus software on your computer which you update regularly
- Always log out of your social media accounts especially if you aren’t using your personal computer
- Once you post something onto social media, even if you delete it, it still exists
- Don’t become friends with people if you don’t know them
