How to Safely Navigate Social Media (for Security Beginners)

We live in a moment in time defined by connectivity, which also means we live in a time defined by unwanted correspondence. It’s never been easier to reach you by phone, email, and even social media—even when you don’t want to be reached. Today, we’re talking about how social media, in particular, presents opportunities for scammers to target you and your loved ones.

The Risks Associated with Social Media

It’s expected nowadays that your average user has the Internet deeply ingrained in their habits and daily rituals. Whether it’s signing into an online app, receiving endless notifications for emails and messages, or scrolling through memes and reels on social media, companies understand one brutal truth: technology has our attention, and they can capitalize on it.

Unfortunately, so too can scammers. Let’s take a look at how scammers use social media to target their victims.

The “Too Good to Be True” Rule Goes Out the Window

You’ve seen the messages and get-rich-quick schemes that are all over the place, but you know better. If it’s too good to be true, you can bet it’s a scam. Scammers use these flashy deals to lure people into clicking on ads that install malware or steal your personal information. You should make sure offers are legitimate before you commit to them.

There Are Links Everywhere

Scammers know that they can connect with you through DMs, comments, and even fake email addresses from the brands you frequent. If you receive a message from a stranger, don’t click on it or any of the links in the message before giving it a thorough scan for legitimacy. Even if it’s from a friend, you don’t know if their account has been hijacked.

Can You Really Trust That Account?

Scammers will often make fake accounts that pretend to be celebrities, brands, or even people from your life. If a friend is asking you for money, and that’s very out of character for them, it’s worth examining more closely and verifying their identity. You can also be sure that any celebrity messaging you with an urgent matter is for sure a scam. Look for blue verification badges on official accounts and look for strange usernames if you need further proof.

How Much Information is Too Much?

Your social media profiles give scammers all the info they need to target you… if you provide it. You shouldn’t post your full name, birthday, or where you work online, as that makes it easier for scammers to impersonate you and potentially take over your accounts. Viral quizzes are also a no-no, as they often ask for a lot of personal information that you shouldn’t be handing over to anyone. These quizzes often ask for answers to security questions. Be sure to update your privacy settings here and there as well, as that can make a significant difference in your account security.

Scammers aren’t going to let up anytime soon, so neither should you. If you encounter situations where you think something fishy is going on, trust that feeling and block or report it.

We hope you find this information useful. If you did, consider sharing it with someone else who might get some value out of it.

And don’t forget to check back to our blog for more tips and tricks on technology best practices.