These days, you can never be too cautious in what you reveal online. Especially now that identity theft is at a rise, everyone who has an internet connection may be a victim. Social media networks like Facebook, Twitter, or Google Plus may offer a fun and harmless place of network and communication. However, there are bits of information that go unfiltered and become damaging media especially to the minds of young people. Worse, they may even get their identities stolen or become targets for criminals. It’s best to take certain precautions if you wish to socialize with people you don’t see upfront.
Here are some steps and precautions you can take to protect you and your loved ones from hackers and criminals alike:
1. It goes without saying; never send sensitive personal information to anyone in the internet. Use Yasni to check your digital footprints.
2. Changing passwords from time to time will keep you secured in case it has been compromised.
3. Never e-mail credit card numbers to anyone. Especially to phishing scams using popular manufacturers and companies that ask for your account numbers and passwords. Legitimate sites only personal information when necessary.
4. For young-teens, they think they can keep being anonymous in the internet. But information does move fast. A simple photo of you can be seen by thousands of people across your network.
5. Internet dating may be an interesting hobby for netizens. They get to be a different person with a different appearance and figure. However, it might be a way to lure you into something dangerous.
(Image: © XtravaganT – Fotolia.com)
About the Author
Reese Jones is a tech and gadget lover, a die-hard fan of iOS and console games. She started her writing venture recently and writes about everything from quick tech tips, to mobile-specific news from the likes of O2, to tech-related DIY. Find more about her and her work at Reese+ or tweet her @r_am_jones.