Komandos 3 essential Facebook security and safety settings
It is no secret about how dangerous Facebook is to your privacy. You have to take action to protect your security when you use the site. That's why I wrote this must-read column about critical Facebook privacy settings.
However, I saw a very interesting study not too long ago. If you follow my Breaking Tech News page, you probably saw it, too. It said that 23 percent of the time people spend on mobile gadgets is spent using the Facebook app. That's more than any other app.
Using Facebook's app on your mobile gadget opens you up to new privacy concerns. Mobile gadgets are an increasing target for hacks and theft. Click here for ways to keep your gadget safe. It's not impossible to make the Facebook app safe, though. You just need to know about a few settings and strategies.
1. Enable two-step verification
Two-step verification is the hot new security trend in the tech world. You can learn why it's important in this tip. Since the start of 2013, Twitter, Apple and Microsoft have all added it. Facebook has actually had it for years.
To turn it on, go to Account Settings>>Security>> Login Approvals. Click the checkbox and enter your cellphone number. When you try to log in on a new gadget, you'll receive a text with a code. You need to enter that code before you can log in.
This stops hackers from logging in to your account from other mobile gadgets. Even if they have your name and password, they won't get the second code.
2. Set up Trusted Contacts
Hackers are sneaky. There's still a small chance someone could break into your account. This new Facebook feature uses your friends to take the account back.
To set it up, click the gear icon and choose "Security Settings." Once you click "Trusted Contacts," you'll have to enter your password. Then, click "add friends." You'll need to select at least three friends before you can click "Done."
Now, those friends can help if you forget your password and are locked out. It's like giving a family member a spare key to your house.
It's especially useful if a thief steals your gadget and it's already logged into Facebook. You can quickly get in to your account and change your password.
3. Use common sense
Security settings are nice, but your safety depends on some other crucial behaviors. When you're using your gadget in public, don't focus on it exclusively. That makes it easier for a thief to snatch your gadget
Other common-sense tips apply here, too. You need to have a lock code on your phone. I'll explain how to create a secure one in this tip. You should also learn how to use public Wi-Fi safely.
Don't forget that your smartphone and tablet need security software, as well. You can find some of my favorites in this tip.
Most importantly, make your Facebook password different from your other account passwords. That way if hackers get it, they won't get your other accounts. Click here for ways to create secure, memorable passwords for all of your accounts.
Locking down your accounts doesn't require a degree in computer security. These three tips will help you lock things down with ease.
Public Wi-Fi isn't just a concern on your smartphone or tablet. Use these five tips to surf safely on public Wi-Fi from a PC.
A nasty virus won't just wreck your computer; it hurts your privacy, too! Here are five signs your computer is infected.
If a hacker does find a way in, don't panic. Quick action can take the account back. Recover a hacked account with these tips.
no secret about how dangerous Facebook is to your privacy. You have to take action to protect your security when you use the site. That's why I wrote this must-read column about critical Facebook privacy settings. However, I saw a very interesting study not too long ago. If you follow my Breaking Tech News page, you probably saw it, too. It said that 23 percent of the time people spend on mobile gadgets is spent using the Facebook app. That's more than any other app. |
Using Facebook's app on your mobile gadget opens you up to new privacy concerns. Mobile gadgets are an increasing target for hacks and theft. Click here for ways to keep your gadget safe. It's not impossible to make the Facebook app safe, though. You just need to know about a few settings and strategies. 1. Enable two-step verification |
- See more at: http://www.komando.com/tips/index.aspx?id=14599&utm_medium=nl&utm_source...
- Printer-friendly version
- Log in to post comments
- 2685 reads