To protect your privacy online, here are ten things you should NEVER do:
- Share Personal Information Unnecessarily: Avoid sharing unnecessary personal details, such as your full address, phone number, or social security number, unless it is absolutely necessary.
- Use Weak or Reused Passwords: Never use weak passwords or reuse the same password across multiple accounts. Instead, use strong and unique passwords for each online account.
- Click on Suspicious Links: Avoid clicking on links in emails, messages, or pop-up ads that seem suspicious or originate from unknown sources. They could lead to phishing websites or download malicious software.
- Ignore Software Updates: Don't ignore software updates for your operating system, web browsers, and applications. Updates often include security patches that protect against known vulnerabilities.
- Overshare on Social Media: Be cautious about oversharing personal information, such as your exact location, daily routines, or sensitive events, on social media platforms. Limit your audience and use privacy settings to control who can view your posts.
- Neglect Privacy Settings: Don't ignore the privacy settings of your online accounts, social media platforms, or apps. Regularly review and adjust your privacy settings to ensure you have control over your data.
- Use Unsecured Wi-Fi Networks: Avoid using unsecured public Wi-Fi networks for sensitive activities, such as online banking or accessing personal accounts. Use a virtual private network (VPN) for secure browsing on public networks.
- Fall for Phishing Scams: Never provide personal information, login credentials, or financial details in response to unsolicited emails, calls, or messages. Legitimate organizations won't ask for such information via insecure channels.
- Share Devices or Accounts: Avoid sharing your devices or accounts with others, especially when it comes to sensitive information or financial transactions. Maintain separate user accounts and secure your devices with passwords or biometric authentication.
- Ignore Privacy Policies: Don't ignore the privacy policies of websites, apps, or online services you use. Take the time to read and understand how your data is collected, stored, and shared to make informed decisions.
#5, Don't Overshare on Social Media, is really important. Check out this disturbing ad from Deutsche Telekom on the risks of oversharing. https://www.privacypillars.com/post/see-the-risks-of-oversharing-in-a-message-from-ella