5 Tips to Protect your Social Media Accounts from Hackers

Social media plays a vital role in our day to day lives.

13:01 02 October 2020

It allows us to connect with family and friends, share pictures, get news updates, and create content. Also, we can express ourselves to our inner circle and the world through social media. However, with social media platforms having billions of users and the numbers growing each year, there is another concern in Cybersecurity. It would be devastating if someone got hold of our social media accounts and more so have access to your personal data. Your online safety is very crucial, and below are a few tips to help you keep your information safe while still enjoying the good side of social media.

 

Use Strong Passwords

 

Using a simple and basic password isn’t enough security. Strong passwords will have at least eight characters in length with a combination of upper and lowercase letters, symbols, and numbers. The stronger the password the harder it will be for hackers to crack your password. If you are using the same password to log in to different accounts, then they can all be hacked! Additionally, changing your password at least once in a few months is quite important. Password managers are also a safe option that helps significantly in keeping all your usernames and passwords safe especially if you tend to forget them a lot.

 

Update your Software

 

It is also important to keep your apps and software updated for security reasons. For instance, if you are using MacOS Catalina, then you should update to the Big Sur 11 for better features like an enhanced layer of security. Should you run into any problems as you update or install the Big Sur, you can try updating your drivers also. Well, updating tools fixes bugs that can be used by attackers to spot weaknesses to exploit in your software. So, update your software, including social media apps and tools to stay safe.

 

Verify Accounts

 

The majority of social media platforms such as Instagram and Facebook are full of fake profiles. Such fake accounts can be from a hacker or even people who want to monitor your activities. Accept friend requests only from people you know in real life. Hackers may take advantage of the information you share online to get to you.

 

Don’t Click on Suspicious Links

 

Not every link posted on social media platforms is safe. So, think twice before clicking on a social media link you see. Links from uncertified accounts such as clickbait wording, quizzes about popular topics such as Netflix or sweepstakes can lead to viruses, malware or even hackers gaining access to your information.

 

Use private Wi-Fi Networks

 

Always use private Wi-Fi networks when using your social media since they are better protected compared to public WIFI. Cybercriminals are likely to gain access to your passwords and data on such wireless networks. There are many dangers associated with using public Wi-Fi from being exposed to potential hackers to exposing your computer to viruses and malware.

 

Wrap Up

 

With the huge user database of private information online, ensure your information is always safe and secure on your social media platforms. Use some of our tips to enhance security for your social media accounts to keep malicious people at bay. Stay safe on social media!