In case you didn't know, it is Cyber Security Awareness Month! We're sharing 14 helpful security and privacy tips for using social networking sites. (Facebook, SnapChat, Instagram, etc.)
- Ensure that any computer you use to connect to a social media site has proper security measures in place. Also, the internet connection. Public wi-fi is not a good idea.
- Use
and maintain anti-virus software, anti-spyware software, and a
firewall. Keep these applications and systems patched and up-to-date. If
you're not sure what we mean, visit your local computer store and they
can help you!
- Be cautious when clicking on links. If a link seems suspicious, or too good to be true, do not click on it...even if the link is on your most trusted friend’s page, even if they sent it to you in a message. Your friend’s account may be hijacked or infected and now is spreading malware. You could send them a quick text to see what's up if you aren't sure. Better safe than sorry!
- If
you are going to delete your account, first remove all the data. And,
request the account is actually deleted, rather than just deactivated.
- Type the address of your social networking site directly into your browser. Or use your personal bookmarks. Clicking a link through email or another website might lead to a fake site. Here, your personal information could be stolen.
- Be cautious about installing applications. Some social networking sites provide the ability to add or install third party applications. Games, for example. Keep in mind there is sometimes little or no quality control or review of these applications. They may have full access to your account and the data you share. Malicious apps use this access to interact with your friends and steal your data. Only install apps that come from trusted, well-known sites. If you are no longer using the app, remove it. Also, please note that installing some applications may change your security and privacy settings.
- Use strong and unique passwords. Using the same password on all accounts increases the vulnerability of these accounts. If one becomes compromised, they ALL do. Use different passwords for different accounts. Don't use the password you use to access your organization’s network for any personal sites.
- Be careful whom you add as a “friend,” or what groups or pages you join. The more connections you have, the more people have access to your information. Also, if you get a "friend request" from someone you thought you were already friends with - don't just accept! A common Facebook scam is to duplicate a profile (complete with identical profile and cover photos), then connect with all their friends to steal data. Make sure you do your research before accepting friend requests.
- Do not assume privacy on a social networking site. For both business and personal use, confidential information should
stay confidential. In other words, don't share it! You should only post
information you are comfortable disclosing to a complete stranger.
- Use discretion before posting information or comments. Once you post information online, it is available to anyone. You may not be able to retract it afterwards. Keep in mind, anything posted on government-related social networking pages may be considered public records.
- When posting pictures, delete the meta data, which includes the date and time of the picture.
- Do not announce that you are on vacation, away for an extended period of time, or home alone. It's just an open invitation for unwelcome "guests".
- Set privacy settings. Only allow people you trust to have access to the information you post and your profile. Also, restrict the ability for others to post information to your page. The default settings often allow anyone to see your information and post information to your page.
- Review a site’s privacy policy. Some sites may share information, such as email addresses or user preferences, with other parties. If a site’s privacy policy is vague or does not protect your information, do not use the site.
