Navigating Social Media Safely:
Social media has become an integral part of our daily lives, connecting us with friends, family, and the wider world. While it offers numerous benefits, it also presents risks to our privacy and security. Understanding how to navigate social media safely is essential in protecting your personal information and well-being.
Recent developments highlight the growing concern over social media’s impact on young people. Australia has proposed legislation to ban individuals under 16 from accessing platforms like TikTok, Snapchat, and Instagram, citing risks to mental health and well-being. Research indicates that excessive social media use can negatively affect adolescents’ brain development, leading to increased sensitivity to social feedback and potential mental health issues.
Here are ten tips to help you stay secure on social media platforms:
1️⃣ Review and Update Your Privacy Settings
Each social media platform offers privacy settings that allow you to control who sees your content.
• Action Tip: Regularly check and adjust your privacy settings to ensure you’re only sharing information with intended audiences.
2️⃣ Be Cautious with Personal Information
Sharing too much can make you vulnerable to identity theft or targeted scams.
• Action Tip: Avoid posting sensitive details like your home address, phone number, or financial information.
3️⃣ Think Before You Post
Once something is online, it can be difficult to remove completely.
• Action Tip: Consider the potential long-term implications of your posts for your personal and professional life.
4️⃣ Use Strong, Unique Passwords
Weak passwords can be easily compromised.
• Action Tip: Create complex passwords using a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols, and use different passwords for each account.
5️⃣ Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Adding an extra layer of security makes it harder for unauthorised users to access your accounts.
• Action Tip: Activate 2FA on all social media platforms that offer it.
6️⃣ Be Wary of Friend Requests—from Strangers and Friends
Not everyone online is who they claim to be.
• Action Tip: Be cautious when accepting friend or follower requests, even if they appear to come from people you know. Scammers often create fake profiles impersonating friends to gain your trust. If you receive an unexpected request from someone you think you’re already connected with, verify through another channel before accepting.
7️⃣ Avoid Clicking Suspicious Links
Phishing scams often use social media to distribute malicious links.
• Action Tip: Don’t click on links from unknown sources, and be cautious even if they appear to come from friends, as accounts can be hacked.
8️⃣ Monitor Your Digital Footprint
Regularly checking what’s publicly available about you can help you manage your online reputation.
• Action Tip: Search your name periodically to see what information is accessible and request removal if necessary.
9️⃣ Be Careful with Third-Party Apps
Some apps request access to your social media accounts and personal data.
• Action Tip: Only authorise reputable apps, and review the permissions they request. Revoke access for apps you no longer use.
🔟 Educate Yourself on Platform Updates
Social media platforms frequently change their features and policies.
• Action Tip: Stay informed about updates that could affect your privacy and adjust your settings accordingly.
Additional Tips
• Limit Location Sharing
• Action Tip: Disable automatic location tagging on posts to prevent others from knowing your whereabouts.
• Be Mindful of Public Wi-Fi
• Action Tip: Avoid accessing social media accounts over unsecured public Wi-Fi networks without using a VPN.
• Report Suspicious Activities
• Action Tip: If you notice any harassment, bullying, or suspicious behaviour, report it to the platform administrators.
In Summary:
• Stay Vigilant: Always be aware of the potential risks when using social media.
• Protect Your Information: Take proactive steps to secure your accounts and personal data.
• Engage Responsibly: Use social media in a way that safeguards your well-being and respects others.
Social media is a powerful tool for connection and expression. By implementing these tips, you can enjoy the benefits of social platforms while minimising risks to your security and privacy.