When it comes to privacy and security issues on social networks, the sites that are most likely to suffer from issues are the most popular ones.All it takes is one single person to cause a major damage.But security issues and privacy issues are two entirely different things.A security issue occurs when a hacker gains unauthorized access to a site's protected coding or written language.Privacy issues, those involving the unwarranted access of private information, don't necessarily have to involve security breaches.Someone can gain access to confidential information simply by watching you type your password.
But how can you protect yourself from those with malicious intentions?Below are some helpful tips regarding security and privacy while using social networking sites:
- Ensure that any computer you use to connect to a social media site has proper security measures in place. Use and maintain anti-virus software and keep your application and operating system patches up-to-date.
- Use caution when clicking a link to another page or running an online application, even if it is from someone you know. Many applications embedded within social networking sites require you to share your information when you use them. Attackers use these sites to distribute their malware.
- Use strong and unique passwords. Using the same password on all accounts increases the vulnerability of these accounts if one becomes compromised.
- If screen names are allowed, do not choose one that gives away too much personal information.
- Be careful who you add as a “friend,” or what groups or pages you join. The more “friends” you have or groups/pages you join, the more people who have access to your information.
- Do not assume privacy on a social networking site. For both business and personal use, confidential information should not be shared. You should only post information you are comfortable disclosing to a complete stranger.
- Use discretion before posting information or commenting about anything. Once information is posted online, it can potentially be viewed by anyone and may not be retracted afterwards. Keep in mind that content or communications on government-related social networking pages may be considered public records.
- Configure privacy settings to allow only those people you trust to have access to the information you post. Also, restrict the ability for others to post information to your page. The default settings for some sites may allow anyone to see your information or post information to your page; these settings should be changed.
- 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 properly protect your information, do not use the site.
