1. Don’t Overshare. Sharing personal details like your current location, birthday, workplace, or daily routine can make you a target of identity theft, phishing scams, or even physical threats. Even if you’re posting temporary content like Stories, or using privacy settings to only share with your friends, keep in mind that your posts can be captured via screenshot and kept or shared by others. Announcing that you’re on vacation or out for the evening might seem harmless, but it could also signal to potential burglars that your home is unoccupied.
2. Think Before You Click. In 2025, clickbait is more deceptive than ever. Suspicious links in DMs, comments, or even sponsored posts can lead to malware or phishing sites. Always hover over links to preview their destination before clicking. You should also avoid clicking on shortened URLs unless you trust the source completely. If you’re familiar with the website, the safest option is to enter the address into your browser on your own, or search for it using a search engine.
3. Skip the Quizzes and Surveys. Answering “where did you go to elementary school?” on Facebook might seem harmless, but these quizzes often collect data that can be used to guess your passwords or security question answers. Many of these seemingly fun surveys are designed to collect personal information that can be exploited by cybercriminals.
4. Review App Permissions Regularly. Many third-party apps request access to your social media accounts, and some may post on your behalf or collect your data without your knowledge. Over time, it’s easy to forget which apps you’ve granted access to. For example, you might have linked your PayPal account to your Facebook account to make a purchase on Marketplace and completely forgotten about it. Regularly reviewing your app permissions helps you maintain control over your data and reduces the risk of unauthorized activity.
5. Lock Down Your Privacy Settings. Social platforms update their privacy policies and settings frequently, and what was private yesterday might be public today. Make it a habit to review who can see your posts, tag you, or message you. Enabling multi-factor authentication when possible is also a smart move to add an extra layer of protection to your accounts.
6. Keep Your Software Updated. Outdated browsers, apps, and operating systems are vulnerable to new threats. Cybercriminals often exploit known flaws in older software, so enabling automatic updates and regularly checking for patches is a simple but powerful way to stay secure.
7. Be Selective with Your Connections. Not everyone who sends a friend request has good intentions. Fake profiles and bots are more sophisticated than ever, and some may be used to gather information or launch scams. If someone seems suspicious or is sending incessant messages, block and report them immediately. If someone you are already friends with sends you a new friend request, check that it is legitimate before accepting it.
8. Watch Out for AI-Generated Scams. Scammers are leveraging generative AI tools to create convincing fake content like deepfake videos or voice clones that can appear to come from your boss, a family member, or even a trusted brand. Be wary of any social media posts or messages asking for urgent help, money transfers, or sensitive information. Always verify unexpected requests through a secondary method, like a phone call or in-person confirmation. When in doubt, pause and investigate. Your caution could prevent a costly mistake.
9. Clean Up Your Digital Footprint. Your online presence is more permanent than ever, and old posts, photos, or comments can resurface when you least expect it. Whether you're applying for a job, college, or using dating apps, your social media is often reviewed. Regularly audit your accounts—delete outdated content, untag yourself from photos, and adjust privacy settings to keep your profile clean and professional.
10. Be Mindful of Biometric Data. Face filters, voice notes, and features that track your movement are fun and engaging, but they often collect biometric data—like your facial structure, voice patterns, or movement behaviors. Some apps may store or even share this sensitive data with third parties, sometimes without your full understanding. Before using these kinds of features, review the platform’s privacy policy and understand what data is being collected. Disable permissions you’re not comfortable with and weigh the fun of a filter against the potential privacy risks.
Your digital footprint is more permanent and more valuable to cybercriminals than ever before. That’s why staying vigilant and proactive on social media is essential. Protecting your personal information online is just as critical as safeguarding your financial data. By following these tips, you can lower your risk and enjoy a safer, more secure digital experience. BankFive is committed to helping you stay safe online. For more tips and tools, visit https://www.bankfive.com/security.