How to Protect Your Social Media Accounts

Social media has become an essential part of our daily lives, with over 56% of the global population actively using various platforms. On average, people spend 147 minutes per day scrolling through their feeds, with U.S. users spending over two hours daily, while those in the Philippines spend nearly four hours.

With so much personal and professional information shared online, securing your social media accounts should be a top priority. Here are key security tips to help keep your accounts safe from cyber threats.

1. Set a Strong, Unique Password

Your password is the first line of defense against hackers. Using the same password across multiple accounts makes it easier for cybercriminals to gain access.

• Use a password manager to generate and securely store complex passwords.
• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for an extra layer of security.

2. Adjust Your Privacy Settings

Most social media platforms allow users to control who can see their posts and personal details.

• Set your profile to private to limit access to your information.
• Regularly review and update privacy settings on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

3. Be Cautious with Friend Requests

Not all friend requests are legitimate. Fake accounts are often used for scams, phishing attacks, and data harvesting.

• In 2021 alone, Facebook removed 1.8 billion fake accounts in one quarter.
• Only accept requests from people you know and trust.

4. Think Before Sharing Your Location

Posting real-time updates about your location can put you at risk.

• Avoid sharing vacation plans or location-based updates while you are away.
• Consider posting travel photos after you return instead of in real time.

5. Remember: The Internet is Forever

Even if you delete a post, it can still be saved, screenshotted, or reshared.

• If you wouldn’t want something to exist permanently online, do not post it.

6. Watch Out for Phishing Scams

Cybercriminals often use fake messages and malicious links to steal personal information. These scams can appear as:

• Direct messages from unknown senders.
• Emails pretending to be from social media platforms.
• Quizzes or surveys designed to collect personal data.

Never click on suspicious links or share login credentials outside official websites.

7. Stay Alert for Online Scams

Scammers use social media to promote fake investment opportunities, get-rich-quick schemes, and other fraudulent offers.

• Be skeptical of deals that seem too good to be true.
• Verify sources before making financial commitments.

8. Monitor Tags and Mentions

Some platforms allow you to review posts where you are tagged before they appear on your timeline.

• Adjust these settings to prevent being associated with misleading or inappropriate content.

9. Secure Your Devices and Accounts

Even with strong passwords and privacy settings, your security depends on protecting your devices from cyber threats.

Using advanced security software helps prevent:

• Malware and ransomware attacks.
• Phishing attempts.
• Unauthorized access to your data.

Regularly update your apps and enable features like automatic logout and account recovery options.

10. Evaluate Your Security with a Protection Score

Not sure how secure your accounts are? Many platforms offer security checkups to help you:

• Identify potential vulnerabilities.
• Strengthen your account security.

Perform a detailed security assessment to ensure your social media presence remains safe.

Final Thoughts

Social media is an essential part of both personal and professional life, but it also comes with security risks. By following these best practices, you can protect yourself from hacks, scams, and privacy breaches while enjoying a safer online experience.

If you have any concerns or need help securing your social media accounts, contact BPM Tech Solutions. Our expert team is here to help you stay safe online.

Stay secure and enjoy peace of mind.