Social Media for the Safety Conscious

SOCIAL MEDIA for the safety conscious As social media networks continue to grow in number and popularity, users are increasingly less aware of how personal the information they share with their friends really is. In fact, when users post updates on social media, especially those that are less selective accepting friend requests, they may unintentionally be sharing important and private information with some unsavory characters in addition to their real-life friends. Outlined below are a few quick guidelines that will help you share smarter and keep your home and valuables safe. Online Security Concerns We know how exciting it can get to update your status and share your latest opinions and even your whereabouts with your friends, or depending on your privacy status, anybody who cares. Many of us tend to forget about the security concerns surrounding any social media website, and below are some of the most common status updates that you may want to consider before you hit the submit button. "Five days until Cancun!" is certainly exciting for everyone involved but to some of your followers, an update like this one could be an indication that no one will be home for that period of time. Holiday Countdown This may not only lead to a break-in, but your home could potentially become host to a party or even squatters. Furthermore, if you plan on allowing someone into your home while you're away to feed the fish or water the plants, don't tell that person where the key is hidden while online and don't leave the key where an intruder is likely to find it (on the door frame, under a rock, under the mat). Alternatively, you can use automated, wireless locks that are integrated with a security system to keep your doors locked when you want protection or unlocked when you need to let someone in. Check-Ins check in and may even offer a reward for sharing Most businesses encourage customers your positive experience with your friends. While your location may be an especially cool one, check-ins also tell followers that you're out of the house and if you're tagging your friends, you may be putting them at risk as well. Social Plans Visiting family is a great way to spend the holidays but if you post your plans on social networks, you could be at risk for a break in. The holidays often mean that valuables and gifts will be out in the open and that homes will be empty for an extended period of time. If you're planning on spending time out of the house, be sure to be discreet online, Public Events Public RSVPS to parties, school events, Evites (even only to people you think you know), and even weddings have been known to give intruders cause to target your home. Some of the worst examples involve intruders that look for funeral announcements and robbing people while they are giving their condolences. It is also easier than most people think to find someone's address online - given only their phone number or email address. If you want to invite guests to your home, it is best to do so privately. SAFE SOCIAL NETWORKING You can avoid these risks and enjoy using social networking sites by following a few sensible guidelines: Profile Information Email Account Be wary of publishing any identifying information about yourself - either in your profile or in your posts. Set up a separate email account to register and receive mail from the site. These include phone numbers, pictures of your home, workplace or school, your address or birthday. That way if you want to close down your account/page, you can simply stop using that mail account. Setting up a new email account is very simple and quick to do using such providers as Hotmail, Yahoo! Mail or gmail. Y! Secure your Profiles Educate Yourself Keep your profile closed and allow only your friends to view your profile. Learn how to use the site properly. Use the privacy features to restrict strangers' access to your profile. Be guarded about who you let join your network. User Information Connect Safely Pick a user name that does not include any personal information. For example, "joe_glasgow" or "jane_liverpool" would be bad choices. Ensure you have effective and updated antivirus/antispyware software and firewall running before you go online. Use strong passwords always. Choose something obscure that isn't easily guessed, but also something that you'll be able to remember. Also, be on your guard against phishing scams, including fake friend requests and posts from individuals or companies inviting you to visit other pages or sites. 72% of all internet users are DID YOU KNOW? H now active on social media. Social networking is a global revolution Use Responsibly ALBA LOCKS Infographic by...