In today’s digital age, many individuals are quick to share personal details online without considering the consequences. This can lead to becoming a target for scams, identity theft, and other dangers. Below are seven key things you should refrain from posting on your social media profiles to ensure your safety and privacy.
Your Relationship Status
While it may seem innocent to share your relationship status, it can make you vulnerable, especially if you’re a widow or widower. Scammers often prey on individuals who are grieving, looking to exploit their emotional state for financial gain. Take, for example, the case of Rosalie Douglass, who labeled herself as a “widow” on dating apps. She fell victim to two different scammers, losing an astonishing $430,000 in the process.
Pro tip: If you’re navigating the dating scene as a widow or widower, it’s wise to keep that information private on social media and dating platforms.
Your Vacation Plans
Sharing your vacation plans can be an open invitation for burglars. Tiffany learned this the hard way when she posted her family’s Carnival cruise tickets on Facebook, inadvertently revealing her booking reference number. A scammer quickly seized the opportunity, creating a new account and canceling her $15,000 trip.
Pro tip: Avoid announcing your travel plans until after you return. You can share memories later, but during your trip, keep your location private to deter potential thieves.
Videos of You Talking
As technology evolves, so do the methods used by scammers. Artificial intelligence can create deepfake videos that can misrepresent you. Recently, a woman named Sam discovered that a brand used her likeness in a promotional video, all thanks to a public video she had posted online.
Pro tip: Be cautious about sharing videos of yourself online. Set your social media accounts to private and limit the distribution of personal content to protect your identity.
Expensive Electronics for Sale
While selling electronics can be lucrative, it also presents risks. A man in South Carolina experienced this firsthand when a buyer he met to sell a limited-edition PlayStation pulled out a gun and robbed him of the console and his personal belongings.
Pro tip: When selling high-value items, always meet in well-lit, public places and consider bringing a friend for added security. A local police department’s parking lot is an excellent choice.
Your Fitness Routes
Fitness tracking apps can unintentionally disclose sensitive information. For instance, Secret Service agents inadvertently revealed the movements of high-profile individuals by sharing their routes on Strava without realizing the data was public. This oversight poses significant security risks.
Pro tip: Adjust your fitness app settings to private. While you can disable GPS tracking, it’s best to find a balance that maintains your privacy without losing functionality.
Your Children’s Schools or Activities
Parents often want to celebrate their children’s achievements online, but sharing the specifics of their schools or activities can invite unwanted attention. Posting photos in front of a school or disclosing practice schedules can make your children vulnerable.
Pro tip: Keep information about your child’s school and activities vague. Avoid identifiable background details in photos and think twice before sharing any specifics.
Your Workplace Details
Oversharing workplace information can expose you to targeted scams. Spear-phishing attacks often focus on individuals with access to sensitive company data, making mid- and high-level employees prime targets. The more details you share about your job, the easier it becomes for scammers to formulate a convincing attack.
Pro tip: Limit the specifics you disclose about your professional life. It’s safer to keep career achievements and projects general, sharing details only with trusted friends and family.
In an age where sharing is the norm, it’s essential to stay vigilant and protect your personal information online. By being mindful of what you post, you can safeguard yourself and your loved ones from potential threats.
For more tips on navigating the digital landscape safely, consider following expert advice from tech hosts like Kim Komando.
