3 Ways to Stay Safe on Social Media
By Shelby Ballou
Social media sharing can expose us to stalkers, burglars, and other dangerous people. It’s more important than ever to stay safe while sharing your life on the internet. So, how do you maintain your privacy in the digital age? Here are three tips that will help ensure your social media life doesn’t compromise your home.
1. Don’t publish personal information.
Cyber-criminals get to you through shared content. If someone can see your posts, they can typically tell where you are. This is especially true with geotagged posts. These are posts that include location data. Geotagging adds personalization to your posts, but it can also put your home in danger. Turn off geolocation on all of your posts, and post vacation photos after you’ve returned home. If you post during your vacation, this will inform criminals that you’re not at home. In addition, review the privacy settings on your account to make sure only approved friends can see your content.
2. Use a virtual private network.
Many people believe VPNs are only for those who want unrestricted access to the internet, but they can be used for much more than that. Using a VPN is a great way to ensure your online security. With a VPN, you can remain anonymous as you surf the web. This means your browsing sessions are private at all times.
3. Use security software.
The internet is filled with malicious software. Spyware and adware constantly compromise your online safety. These apps steal personal information, passwords, and other sensitive data. To protect yourself from these attacks, use security software like McAfee or Kaspersky. These programs automatically scan your devices and detect viruses.
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How do you stay safe on the web? Let us know in the comments!
