Social media play an increasingly important role in our daily lives. They allow us to connect with others, share information and share our experiences. While social media offer numerous benefits, they also pose significant cyber security risks. In this comprehensive article, we will delve deeper into the challenges and risks of cyber security on social media.
Cyber risks on social media
Privacy is a major concern on social media platforms. Users often share personal information without being fully aware of the possible consequences. Add to this the growing number of social media users, making these platforms a walhalla for cybercriminals. The risks are still underestimated by many individuals and companies. Some prominent risks you may encounter on social media are:
Identity theft
Cybercriminals can impersonate others to obtain sensitive information and commit identity theft. Examples include catphishing. On the other hand, attackers can also steal your identity and cause you reputation damage.
Phishing attacks
Social media are fertile ground for phishing attacks, where users are tricked into revealing confidential information. The more information you reveal about your life, the more successful they will be in their social engineering tactics.
An example of social engineering on social media
For example, an attacker might refer to a vacation in the Maldives five years ago where you allegedly met. He then shares a link to a website that supposedly contains a photo of you together. You then see a login screen from a social media platform, but are unaware that when you enter your data here, it is forwarded to the attacker.
Spreading malware
Malicious people can share malicious links through social media messages, exposing users to malware and ransomware. Many people are still unaware of this danger. People often still mistakenly believe that links on social media can also be malicious.
Stalkers and burglars
Sharing location information on social media can expose users to stalkers or other threats. For example, a burglar may see that you are on vacation in a faraway country and then break into your home undisturbed.
Cybersafe on social media
Of course, despite the risks, this does not mean that you cannot engage on such platforms. They have become valuable and indispensable places in our lives. By observing the following rules, you should be able to use social media safely:
Strong passwords and 2FA
Use strong, unique passwords for all your social media accounts and enable two-factor authentication to strengthen security.
Privacy settings
Take the time to thoroughly check the privacy settings of your social media accounts and restrict access to your personal information.
Awareness of phishing
Learn how to recognize phishing attacks and avoid clicking on suspicious links or sharing confidential information based on unsolicited requests. If necessary, attend security awareness training or provide phishing simulations for your employees to create awareness within your company.
Be careful
Be careful about sharing personal information such as your address, phone number or date of birth on social media platforms. It’s nice to get congratulations from your friends, but it can be used against you. Especially with the rise of AI, security risks are getting bigger, better and have more impact.
Tip: If you enter your date of birth on social media, at least try to make the year of birth invisible if possible.
Respect the privacy of others
Respect the privacy of others and do not share personal information without their permission.
Limit visibility.
Consider limiting your social media activities and making your profiles accessible only to trusted contacts.
Look closely at your photos
Look carefully at the photos you share on social media before posting them. For example, is there an employee badge on display? Or perhaps notes with sensitive information on your desk.