22 July 2019
As part of St Helena Government’s (SHG) Internet Awareness Campaign to raise awareness of the dangers of the internet and to promote safety when online, this week the focus is on staying safe on Social Media.
Social Media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, have become an integral part of online lives. Social Media is a great way to stay connected with others, but you should be wary about the dangers that exist when engaging in any social networking online.
Everyday cybercriminals such as hackers, identity thieves, and scammers, use Social Media to retrieve personal data and information, or send out links that will allow them to hack into personal accounts, from which they can continue to carry out their cybercrimes.
Cyberbullies are also a threat on Social Media where they use your personal information or something which you have posted to purposefully cause hurt. They can also create fake accounts using photos and information from your account.
To get the best out of Social Media and to help avoid some of the dangers it presents, try following these tips:
- Make use of privacy and security settings – Privacy and security settings are there to help you control who sees what you post and manage your online experience in a positive way
- Once posted, always posted – What you post online stays online. Think twice before posting pictures you wouldn’t want your parents or future employers to see. Protect your reputation on social networks
- Keep personal information personal – Be cautious about how much personal information you provide on Social Media. The more information you post, the easier it may be for a hacker or someone else to use that information
- Be honest if you’re uncomfortable – If a friend posts something about you that makes you uncomfortable or seems inappropriate, let them know. Likewise, stay open minded if a friend approaches you because something you’ve posted makes them uncomfortable
- Keep security software current – Having the latest security software, web browser, and operating system is the best defence against viruses, malware and other online threats
- When in doubt, throw it out – Links in messages, tweets, posts, and online advertising are often how cybercriminals try to steal your personal information. Even if you know the source, if something looks suspicious, delete it
Remember these tips next time you are online and share them with friends and family, especially children with access to the internet, to ensure that you and the people you care about are staying safe on Social Media.
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SHG
22 July 2019