Keep Control of your Social Media Presence

Love it or hate it, social media is an important part of modern life. However, between Facebook, Twitter, and Linkedin—not to mention all the others—a lot of our information ends up in places we may not want it.

 

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Social media can reveal a lot about a person. Though investigators often use social media to put together a case, we also understand how important it is for the average social media user to keep their information safe. With that in mind, here are a few basic tips to keep your profile under your control:

Know your Privacy Settings

Though most social media platforms already have strong privacy settings, they’re not always on by default. For example, a Facebook profile isn’t set to “Friends Only” until you select the option under the Privacy Settings menu. Security is only effective if you use it— whenever you make a new social media profile, be sure to know what your privacy options are and where to find them.

In addition, keep in mind that your privacy settings might not always be the same. Websites change, and with each update comes new security options and vulnerabilities. Remember, the fewer people who can see your information, the safer it will be.

Watch what you say online

It’s easy to forget how public the internet is. If someone works hard enough, they can get to anything—personal information as well as sensitive conversations. Often times, we use social media just like passing notes in class. But just like notes in class, our conversations can be intercepted by someone we don’t want to read them.

The best way to keep sensitive information safe is to keep it off the internet. That’s not to say you should be scared to use social media platforms, but just be aware that the internet is a public place no matter what security we use.

Finally, be aware of what people are tagging you in

Social media is built on social connection. Unfortunately, this means that you’re not always the only person with connections to your information. Even if they don’t mean to, your friends and contacts can reveal things about you that you don’t want them to.

Fortunately, several social media platforms include security settings that require your input before someone else tags your profile. It all comes back to knowing the options available to you— keep informed, and keep safe.

We here at Forletta Investigative/Security Consultant firmly believe that prevention is the best way to keep safe. With even the simplest steps, you can keep using social media platforms without fear. If you have any questions or concerns about your security, feel free to contact your friendly Pittsburgh PI Company— we’re here to help!