From family photos to check-ins at your favorite restaurant, social media makes it easy to stay connected with others, share milestones and stay informed. Every post, photo and profile update also contributes to your digital footprint — sometimes in ways you may not expect.
How you manage your accounts can help reduce your online risks while still allowing you to enjoy the fun of social media.
Think before you post
Once content is shared online, it can be copied, saved or shared beyond your intended audience. It’s also difficult to remove. Posts that may seem harmless in the moment can resurface later.
When posting online, take a moment to pause and consider how it might be viewed by others outside your circle.
Protect your personal information
Avoid sharing sensitive details that could be used to identify or locate you. This includes information like your full address, phone number, birthday or answers to common security questions. Even small pieces of information shared over time can add up and increase the risk of falling victim to identity theft or scams.
Be aware of location sharing
Many social media platforms automatically tag your location or allow you to “check in.” While convenient, these features can reveal patterns about where you live, work or spend your time. Reviewing location settings and limiting when and how you share your whereabouts can help keep your routines private.
Review privacy settings regularly
Social media platforms regularly update features and default settings. Taking the time to review your privacy settings helps ensure you’re comfortable with who can see your posts, photos and personal information.
Choose connections wisely
Not every friend request or follower is who they claim to be. Fake profiles are sometimes used to gather personal information or spread scams. Be selective about who you connect with and cautious when interacting with unfamiliar accounts.
