Social media has become an essential part of many people\u2019s lives, as it can be used to connect with friends and family, keep up to date with local and national news, and stay on top of viral trends. However, the accessibility and vastness of social media can also lead to security issues, especially when it comes to your personal and financial security.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Websites and apps like Facebook, X, TikTok, Reddit, Instagram, and LinkedIn (among many others) give you the opportunity to connect with people all across the world. However, if you need a refresher on simple online security, here are a few social media scams to watch out for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mostly seen on apps like Facebook, these quizzes are designed to collect your personal information once you\u2019ve clicked on them. Any information you have on your Facebook account, whether it\u2019s personal or financial, may be compromised by these programs. Any meme or quiz that asks you personal questions may be phishing your information for password security questions.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
According to the FTC, in 2021, more than half of the people who reported losses with investment scams claimed the scam started on social media. Keep in mind that authentic companies generally will not insist on cryptocurrency as a valid payment method.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Many social media platforms, such as Facebook and Instagram, have a \u2018verified\u2019 icon that celebrities and famous names can use to show they are who they say they are. But that still means people can create accounts pretending to be celebrities, especially on X where anyone can purchase the verification symbol. Keep an eye out if these accounts reach out to you directly and purport to be a celebrity.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
While it\u2019s not uncommon to befriend people you\u2019ve met through social media, romance and friendship scams are still popular on these apps. Be cautious of anyone reaching out to you directly asking for money — no matter how well-intentioned, it could easily be a financial scam.\u00a0<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Social media has become an essential part of many people\u2019s lives, as it can be used to connect with friends and family, keep up to date with local and national news, and stay on top of viral trends. However, the accessibility and vastness of social media can also lead to security issues, especially when it … <\/p>\n