Privacy & Social Networking

We’re all on some kind of social network these days. Whether it’s Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Snapchat, Twitter, or some other service, we use social networks to keep in touch with friends, family, and colleagues. While this is a great thing, your personal information is put at risk sometimes because social networks are also a great tool for hackers to do research. Hackers can use personal details you post to craft more effective phishing campaigns against you and any organization you are associated with.

Admittedly this is a bit exaggerated, but take a look at this YouTube video by a security company called Habitu8 about someone who provides too much information on social media: Social Media Privacy by Habitu8

Here are a few tips from the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency to help you keep your private information private:

If You Connect IT, Protect IT. Whether it’s your computer, smartphone, game device, or other network devices, the best defense against viruses and malware is to update to the latest security software, web browser, and operating systems. Sign up for automatic updates if you can, and protect your devices with anti-virus software.
Play hard to get with strangers. Cyber criminals use phishing tactics, hoping to fool their victims. If you’re unsure who an email is from — even if the details appear accurate — or if the email looks “phishy,” do not respond and do not click on any links or attachments found in that email. When available, use the “junk” or “block” option to no longer receive messages from a particular sender.
Never click and tell. Limit what information you post on social media — from personal addresses to where you like to grab coffee. What many people don’t realize is that these seemingly random details are all that criminals need to know to target you, your loved ones, and your physical belongings — online and in the real world. Keep Social Security numbers, account numbers, and passwords private, as well as specific information about yourself, such as your full name, address, birthday, and even vacation plans. Disable location services that allow anyone to see where you are — and where you aren’t — at any given time.
Stay protected while connected. Before you connect to any public wireless hotspot — such as at an airport, hotel, or café — be sure to confirm the name of the network and exact login procedures with appropriate staff to ensure that the network is legitimate. If you do use an unsecured public access point, practice good Internet hygiene by avoiding sensitive activities (e.g., banking) that require passwords or credit cards. Your personal hotspot is often a safer alternative to free Wi-Fi. Only use sites that begin with “https://” when online shopping or banking.
Speak up if you’re uncomfortable. If a friend posts something about you that makes you uncomfortable or you think is inappropriate, let them know. Likewise, stay open-minded if a friend approaches you because something you’ve posted makes them uncomfortable. People have different tolerances for how much the world knows about them, and it is important to respect those differences. Don’t hesitate to report any instance of cyberbullying you see. Report an incident if you’ve been a victim of cybercrime. Local and national authorities are ready to help you.
Remember, there is no Delete button on the Internet. Share with care, because even if you delete a post or picture from your profile seconds after posting it, chances are someone still saw it.
Update your privacy settings. Set the privacy and security settings to your comfort level for information sharing. Disable geotagging, which allows anyone to see where you are — and where you aren’t — at any given time.
Connect only with people you trust. While some social networks might seem safer for connecting because of the limited personal information shared through them, keep your connections to people you know and trust.

Posted By: Bob Landon – IT Services