For most of us on Twitter, Facebook, MySpace, and other social sites we aren't too worried about safety. Well bullying, pedophiles, stalking, and other crimes are now a concern social networkers should have. In the past I have been pretty open on my Facebook page, although there is a complete difference between being open and being unwise. Here are 5 ways to protect yourself and your identity.
1. Keep Private Info to Yourself
Individuals Everyone doesn't need to know your private information. Never put your social security number, address, and phone number out there. Only give it to people you know in person. Also, be careful about the people you add. You never know who may turn out to be a hacker, stalker, or someone trying to steal your identity. Also consider using a user name that isn't your actual name. And don't tweet where you are because that makes you easy to follow or even break into your house.
2. Beware of Strangers
Although this might seem a little basic, there's nothing wrong with a refresher course. Some people that might seem like friends could in reality be spammers that just want to hijack your account. Or they might just want to get traffic to their links. If you aren't acquainted with them, and your friends don't know who they are, don't add them.
3. Curious Behavior
If friends on social sites seem to be acting odd, don't take gifts from them or open their messages. Someone may have hacked into their system so who you thought was a friend really isn't. So, if you have a friend pushing "muenster cheese is the best" but you know they're a vegan. Then it's probably a signal that you shouldn't click on the URL. It could be a malicious program that will mess up your computer.
4. Shortened URLs
Several URLs for web site addresses are really long and as a result by using tools like bit.ly you can have a link with a shortened URL. While these may be handy, they can also allow scammers and spammers the power to hide where you are actually going. If it's possible make sure to preview the URL prior to going on it. An easy rule is that if you can't see where the link is going, don't go there.
5. Know your Privacy Options
All of these social media tools allow you to adjust your security settings to a particular point. Make sure that you assess and adjust them to the maximum privacy setting they allow. However, don't set the settings so high that the tools don't work right. Many of these settings are not the default so make sure that you modify them so some random stranger can't find your data through the search engine. If you don't like or are nervous about some of the privacy settings on the site, then don't use it. Look for another site that meets your privacy protection standards. Regularly examine and upgrade your browser privacy settings.
Social sites can be great. You can reconnect with old friends, improve existing relationships, and also make new friends. Just be careful about what information you are putting up there, and take into account these 5 ways to keep yourself and your identity secure.
About the author:
Diane Johnson earned a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of Utah. She likes to write about the news, politics, college courses, online education, and the college experience.
