|
From the desk of Jason Balderama, Chief Information Security Officer, County of Marin
Social media has become an essential part of our daily lives. It helps us stay connected, share experiences, and discover new communities. But with this convenience comes risk. Cybercriminals, scammers, and even peers with bad intentions can misuse information shared online. Protecting your privacy and security is critical.
Let's review some tips on how to stay safe in today's digital world.
|
|
-
Think Before You Post. Once something is online, it can be permanent, even if you delete it. Screenshots, data backups, and the Wayback Machine can cause content to live on long after you have removed it.
-
Use Strong, Unique Passwords. Create long, complex passwords for your accounts and never reuse the same password across multiple accounts. Consider using a password manager to help keep track of them.
-
Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds an additional layer of security to each of your accounts. When you turn on MFA, you use more than a password to log in, which might mean a fingerprint, facial scan, a text message, or an authenticator app. Enable MFA anywhere and everywhere you can.
-
Review Privacy Settings Regularly. Social media platforms often update their settings. Check who can see your posts, send you messages, or tag you, and adjust according to your comfort level.
-
Be Wary of Suspicious Links and Messages. Phishing attempts often come disguised as messages from friends or brands. Do not click links or download files unless you are absolutely sure they are safe.
Social media can be fun and empowering, but it is also a place where mistakes can have long-lasting consequences. Here are some safety tips for teens.
-
Guard Your Personal Info. Avoid sharing your home address, school name, phone number, or daily routine online. This can protect you from predators and identity thieves.
-
Think About Your Digital Reputation. Colleges, employers, and even coaches often look at social media profiles. Post responsibly, as future opportunities could depend on them.
-
Don’t Overshare Location. Turn off automatic location tagging in apps. Posting where you are in real-time can make you a target.
-
Know Your Real Friends. Do not accept friend or follow requests from strangers. A large follower count is not worth the risk of letting a scammer or cyberbully into your circle.
-
Speak Up About Cyberbullying. If you or someone you know is being bullied online, do not suffer in silence. Report it to the social platform, block the offender, and talk to a trusted adult.
-
Take Breaks From Social Media. Social media can be stressful and addictive. Consider taking regular breaks to help you stay balanced.
|
|
Copyright © 2025 County of Marin, All rights reserved. |
|
Disclaimer
The information provided in Marin CyberSafe News is intended to increase people’s awareness of cybersecurity and to help them behave in a more secure manner. Links in this newsletter are provided because they have information that may be useful. The County of Marin does not warrant the accuracy of any information contained in the links and neither endorses nor intends to promote the advertising of the resources listed herein. The opinions and statements contained in such resources are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the opinions of County of Marin.
|
|
|
|
