Anyone that uses a social networking site like Facebook, LinkedIn, or even YouTube, knows first-hand that their popularity is a result of the ease with which anyone can post, comment and share information within their personal network. But that's the point, and it's fun. The most recent Facebook statistics show that the average Facebook user creates 70 pieces of content (links, news stories, photos, etc.). Collectively, that amounts to more than 25 billion pieces of shared content each month.
With all this information being shared online, here are a few tips to protect the privacy of your online information.
- Google yourself. What you find may surprise you!
- Try accessing your profile page without logging in.
Depending upon your settings, some or all of your information could be available to anyone, even without an account. For example, if you created a Facebook username, go to http://www.facebook.com/yourusername to see just how much of your information is public.- With every change in season, review the account settings of each of your online profiles, including those you rarely use.
Social sites are constantly changing their security features and policies, which can put your personal information at risk.- Change your account password every six months (180 days).
- Review the help section of each platform to learn about controlling specific account settings.
Do you have other tips to help maintain a private and secure online profile?
