How do you use social media platforms without compromising your privacy and security?

Social media platforms can be fun, useful, and engaging, but they can also expose you to privacy and security risks. Hackers, scammers, and malicious actors can exploit your personal information, online activity, and digital devices for their own gain. To use social media platforms without compromising your privacy and security, you need to follow some best practices and tips. Here are six sections that will help you protect yourself and your data online.

1 Check your privacy settings

One of the first steps you should take is to review and adjust your privacy settings on each social media platform you use. Privacy settings allow you to control who can see your posts, profile, location, contacts, and other information. You should limit your audience to people you trust and know, and avoid sharing sensitive or confidential data. You should also review the permissions you grant to third-party apps and services that access your social media accounts, and revoke any that are unnecessary or suspicious.

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2 Use strong and unique passwords

Another essential step is to use strong and unique passwords for each of your social media accounts. Strong passwords are long, complex, and unpredictable, and they contain a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. Unique passwords mean that you do not use the same password for multiple accounts or services. This way, you can prevent hackers from breaking into your accounts or using your credentials to access other platforms. You should also enable two-factor authentication (2FA) whenever possible, which adds an extra layer of security by requiring a code or a device to verify your identity.

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Raymond Mihluedo

USAF | Secret Security Clearance | CompTIA CySA+ | Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate | IBM Cybersecurity Analyst Certificate
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One can also change their password regularly. With the sophisticated methods and hardwares we have in place, by doing so, you are limiting the chance of the perpetrator to break your password.

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3 Be careful what you post and click

A common way that hackers and scammers can compromise your privacy and security is by tricking you into posting or clicking something malicious. For example, they can send you phishing emails, messages, or links that look legitimate, but actually lead you to fake or infected websites that steal your information or install malware on your device. They can also create fake profiles, groups, or pages that lure you into sharing your personal details or opinions. To avoid these traps, you should always verify the source and the content of any communication or link you receive or see on social media, and never disclose your password, bank details, or other sensitive data.

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Devon Jordan-Fitzpatrick

Solutions Engineer
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If someone you know is sending you a suspicious-looking message, it never hurts to contact the person yourself on another platform to see if their account was compromised or not. E.g. you receive a suspicious DM on Twitter from your friend, so you contact them on WhatsApp to see if it's really them.

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4 Update your software and antivirus

Another important step is to keep your software and antivirus updated on your devices. Software updates often include security patches and bug fixes that protect your device from vulnerabilities and threats. Antivirus software helps you detect and remove any malware or spyware that may infect your device through social media or other sources. You should also use a firewall and a VPN (virtual private network) to secure your network and encrypt your online traffic.

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Devon Jordan-Fitzpatrick

Solutions Engineer
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A lot of malware today is served through internet advertisements; consequently, using an ad block extension in your browser can reduce the risk of malware by a large percentage.

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5 Manage your online reputation

Your online reputation is the image and impression that you create and leave on social media platforms. It can affect your personal and professional life, as well as your privacy and security. To manage your online reputation, you should be mindful of what you post, share, like, comment, or follow on social media, and how it reflects your values, beliefs, and goals. You should also monitor your online presence regularly, and delete or hide any posts or profiles that are outdated, irrelevant, or harmful. You should also report and block any abusive, harassing, or fraudulent behavior that you encounter or witness on social media.

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6 Educate yourself and others

The final step is to educate yourself and others about the privacy and security risks and challenges of using social media platforms. You should stay informed and updated about the latest trends, threats, and best practices of online safety and security. You should also share your knowledge and experience with your friends, family, and colleagues, and help them protect themselves and their data online. You should also join or support online communities and initiatives that promote digital literacy, awareness, and advocacy.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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How do you use social media platforms without compromising your privacy and security?

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1 Check your privacy settings

2 Use strong and unique passwords

3 Be careful what you post and click

4 Update your software and antivirus

5 Manage your online reputation

6 Educate yourself and others

7 Here’s what else to consider

Computer Maintenance

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