Today’s digital age has created a vast network of interconnectedness that has many benefits to it. However, as with most technological advancements, there are some people who choose to use it for personal gain and that typically comes in the form of illegal activity. In terms of the internet and social media, data privacy has now become a hot topic of discussion and one of genuine concern.
With the rise of technology and the increasing amount of personal information stored online, concerns about data privacy have never been more prevalent. Data privacy concerns revolve around the collection, use, and protection of personal information shared online. From social media platforms to online shopping websites that use video production for promoting business, personal data is constantly being collected and shared without full knowledge or consent. So, what exactly are the concerns surrounding data privacy and how should people respond to this reality?
Here are some things that people would do well to understand when it comes to cyber security and the implications that come from daily social media use.
The Risks of Cyber Attacks from Social Media Use
From staying connected with friends and family to sharing our thoughts and experiences with the world, platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter have transformed the way we communicate. However, with the convenience and connectivity that social media provides, there also come inherent risks that many users are ignorant to and should be aware of.
Data Privacy Concerns
One of the biggest risks associated with daily social media use is the threat to individual data privacy and data ethics ideals. Every time someone posts a photo, like’s a post, or fill’s out our personal information on a social media platform, they are essentially sharing valuable data about ourselves. Without proper understanding of the intent and reason for being required to share personal data just to access certain websites, this data can be exploited by malicious entities for targeted advertising, identity theft, or even fraud.
All legitimate social media providers and their associates are required by law to make people acknowledge and “sign” release waivers, but it would be safe to say that almost no one actually reads pages worth of legal documents. Embedded in those documents are sometimes clear but often veiled truths about the intent and reasons that companies are collecting personal data.
Most of what it boils down to is trying to make as much money as possible off of any and all potential customers by selling personal data and site statistics to other parties. While most of that is legal, the problem comes when that information slips out or is misappropriated. Therefore, it is crucial for people to be aware and mindful of the information shared online. Taking time to adjust privacy settings to limit access to personal data can do alot to protect personal information and security.
Phishing and Social Engineering Attacks
Phishing and social engineering attacks are common tactics used by cybercriminals to gain access to sensitive information. By impersonating trusted entities or creating fake profiles, hackers can trick unsuspecting users into clicking on malicious links or sharing their login credentials. These attacks can result in compromised accounts, financial loss, or even identity theft.
Malware Distribution
Another risk associated with daily social media use is the distribution of malware. Cybercriminals often use social media platforms to spread malicious software that can infect users’ devices and steal their data. Clicking on suspicious links, downloading files from unknown sources, or interacting with malicious ads can all put your device at risk.
Account Hacking
One of the most prevalent cybersecurity threats on social media platforms is account hacking. Hackers use various tactics such as phishing emails, malware, and social engineering techniques to gain access to users’ accounts. Once they have access, hackers can steal personal information, send spam messages, and even impersonate the account owner.
Fake Profiles and Identity Theft
Fake profiles are another common cybersecurity threat on social media platforms. Cybercriminals create fake accounts to gather personal information from unsuspecting users. This information can then be used for identity theft, fraud, or even blackmail. It’s essential to be cautious of friend requests from unknown individuals and to verify the authenticity of profiles before sharing any personal information.