Social media is the primary data source criminals use to target you. Your posts, photos, friend lists, and "About" section contain enough information to craft highly convincing personalized attacks. Here's how to minimize your exposure without disappearing from the internet.
Privacy Settings Audit
Most social platforms default to public or semi-public settings. Review and tighten these settings on every platform you use:
What Not to Share
Never post: Your full birthdate, home address, phone number, photos showing your front door or house number, upcoming vacation plans (announces an empty home), financial information, government ID numbers, your children's school names or routines, or photos with location metadata enabled.
Recognizing Fake Profiles
AI-generated fake profiles are increasingly convincing. Warning signs include: profile photos that look almost too perfect (reverse image search them), recently created accounts, very few mutual connections, unusual posting patterns, and reluctance to video call.
Social Engineering
Social engineering uses psychological manipulation to bypass your defenses. On social media, this includes: fake friend requests from "people you might know," impersonation of people you do know, emotional manipulation through shared interests, and building trust over time before making a request.