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Originally Posted On: https://tarungaursanmateo.wordpress.com/2024/07/08/tarun-gaur-on-social-media-and-scams-the-hidden-dangers-of-sharing-online/

Tarun Gaur on Social Media and Scams: The Hidden Dangers of Sharing Online

Tarun Gaur on Social Media and Scams: The Hidden Dangers of Sharing Online

We risk privacy violations and scams when we share too many personal details on social media—sharing personal information that could make you a target for scammers or burglars, such as your work, location, or everyday activities. Social media networks are rife with scams, from identity theft to phishing. Add two-factor authentication for increased security and use privacy settings to control who may view your postings. Always keep your privacy and sharing in check for a safer online experience.

Social media has completely changed how we communicate and share our lives with others in today’s linked society. Social media sites like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter have become vital in our everyday lives, whether sharing images of our families, updating our vacations, or just keeping up with friends’ antics. But among all the ease and connectivity, there’s a hidden risk: the possibility of becoming a victim of online fraud due to disclosing too much personal information. We’ll examine the dangers of posting on social media in this post and the precautions you can take.

Types of Information Shared

You should be aware of the extent of your personal information disclosure when you post on social media. Scammers can take advantage of your complete name, birthdate, location, employment information, relationship status, and even your day-to-day activities through updates and pictures.

It may surprise you that 78% of burglars target possible properties on social media. You unintentionally give away that your home may be unattended when you write about your luxurious vacation or check in from far away, which makes it a prime target for burglars.

Common Scams on Social Media

Scams of many kinds thrive on social media platforms. In 2021, Americans reported losing over $770 million to fraud, with romance scams alone responsible for $547 million, according to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). On social media, phishing, identity theft, financial fraud, and phony job offers are all commonplace.

Take Wendy’s story, a single mother who clicked on a link in what appeared to be genuine communication from her bank, only to fall prey to a phishing scam. She was in financial trouble when her bank account was depleted entirely in hours.

Psychological Tactics Used by Scammers

Scammers are skilled at taking advantage of people’s feelings and weaknesses. They incite panic or a false sense of urgency to coerce victims into acting on impulse. It might be challenging to resist the sense of familiarity and trust they create by assuming the identity of someone likable or trustworthy.

According to research, fear tactics are used in 53% of phishing efforts to trick users into clicking on harmful websites. Knowing these strategies will enable you to spot them and avoid becoming a victim.

Privacy Settings and Security Measures

Manage your privacy settings on social media to keep yourself safe. You can usually control who may see your postings, who can add you as a friend, and what information is publically accessible on most networks. You lessen the chance of oversharing with possible con artists by restricting who can see your posts.

You should be aware that adding two-factor authentication (2FA) to your accounts can increase their security by up to 99%. This additional security measure stops unwanted access even if your password is hacked by requiring you to enter a second verification form (such as a code sent to your phone) while logging in.

Real-Life Example

Real-life stories warn about the risks associated with oversharing on social media. Consider Michael, who flaunted his increased status on Facebook by sharing a photo of his new credit card. Unauthorized charges appeared on his account within days, sparking a protracted struggle to recover control.

This example highlights the significance of exercising caution while sharing information online and its possible effects on security and privacy.

Tips for Safer Sharing

Here are some practical tips to help you navigate social media safely:

1. Think Before You Post: Consider the effects of revealing private information and potential recipients.
2. Limit Personal Details: Refrain from disclosing private information, such as your address, phone number, or financials.
3. Verify Connections: Messages or friend requests from strangers should be avoided, even if they seem familiar.
4. Report Suspicious Activity: Report any suspicious accounts or behavior you come across right away to the platform.

Social Media Platforms’ Responsibilities

Social media companies are accountable for maintaining the security of user data, even if consumers are ultimately responsible. To shield consumers from fraud and privacy violations, they must put strong security measures and procedures in place.

Consider minimizing the quantity of personal information you share and assess how effective the platform’s security features are. Users and platforms may work together to make the internet safer.

In closing, social media exposes us to hazards like scams and privacy breaches while providing unmatched connectivity and ease. Through proactive security measures and an understanding of the hazards involved in sharing personal information online, you may use social media’s advantages without jeopardizing your safety.

Always remember that balancing sharing and protecting your privacy is crucial. To get the most out of social media, keep yourself informed, alert, and mindful of what you share. Working together can make the Internet safer for present and future generations.

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About Tarun Gaur:

Tarun Gaur is the CEO of qikfox, a web browser with integrated security features. Tarun has over fifteen years of experience in the tech industry, including stints at Microsoft, Deloitte Consulting, and HP. Tarun founded Tringapps in 2008, which was acquired by Mobile Gaming Technologies in 2018. Tarun then served as VP of Blockchain at Mobile Gaming Technologies until they left in 2019 to start qikfox.