Modern technology has made it possible for people all over the world to meet one another through social networking sites and other computer applications. With technology, though, comes many dangers. Keeping yourself safe should be your primary concern, and you need to take it seriously. Knowing how to keep an online profile safe and secure by using some tips and a little common sense can help keep you comfortable with your Internet use.
Guard Passwords
No social networking site will ever ask you for your password after you've created your profile. Any email, message or instant message you get that claims to be from the site where your profile is listed and asks you for your password is not legitimate. Guard your password and do not tell anyone, including friends, the password. Using both numbers and letters, in addition to even using symbols, can make it difficult for anyone to guess your password and access your profile.
Never Meet With Strangers
Many child and sexual predators use social networking sites in order to meet with victims and lure them into criminal activity. Because the Internet provides anonymity to everyone, you will never know if the individuals you are talking to are who they claim to be.
In the case of children, never allow them to meet with online contacts they do not know personally. If a teenager is supposed to meet an online friend in person, a parent should consider being there as well. If the teen is meeting another teen who lives close by, they can have fun together even if Mom or Dad is in proximity. But if a predator shows up to meet with a teen and sees a parent there, he will leave--- fast.
Adults should take precautions against putting themselves in unsafe situations with those they interact with online until they can verify the contact's identity.
Keep Your Profile Vague
Online profiles will prompt you to input your home address, phone number and other personal information. Never, under any circumstances, divulge any personal information about yourself that could possibly give someone hints as to where you live. Criminals are able to search your profile for clues about where you live, which may be all the information they need to find your exact location. Ensuring that no personal information is in your profile ensures that no one is able to find you.
Report Unwanted Communication
If, while on a social networking site, you ever receive an unwanted message or continual cryptic messages from someone that you either do not know or do not want to receive messages from, email or call the website help desk immediately regarding this contact to stop the harassment. Social networking sites often offer privacy controls so you are able to choose who is and is not allowed to view your profile.
Be Cautious When Sending/Receiving Email
Never open an email or attachment from the website where your profile is listed from anyone that you do not know. These messages can contain viruses that allow someone else to access your computer, profile and personal information. Never send anything personal to someone that you do not know, either. Sending photos, attachments or any other personal information can give a criminal information about you that can compromise your safety.
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