In today’s media saturated world, we can often find ourselves glued to our phone’s and using various social media platforms. Some examples include Snapchat, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok. While these apps can help you connect with others easily, the use of them also comes with very serious possible consequences, especially when it comes to privacy concerns. All of these platforms allow you to read and sign their privacy agreements, but how many of us really read them? Exactly. To help improve our knowledge of privacy when it comes to media, we need to start reading these long things! Yes, it is boring, but after reading them, you may regret using them and being so nonchalant with your personal information.
So, how are some ways we can protect our privacy without deleting these apps? First, make your accounts private. You should not want/care about strangers seeing the intimate going-on of your daily life. That being said, only allow the people you know to follow you, otherwise, being private is pointless. Next, only allow these apps to use your location when you need it to. Do not keep your location available at all times. This is just asking for trouble. Your friend do not need to see your location on snapchat at all times, I promise you. Also, do not share personal information on the internet. Something as simple as posting your new phone number to your facebook page can allow your followers to reverse trace, and eventually finding your home address. Just don’t do it! Lastly, do not post anything you would not want your job, or future employer to see, even if your profile is private. No employer, friend, or family member wants to see illicit substances, nudity, or inappropriate language. Keep it PG-13 at the most! With this all being said, social media can still be super fun! Just take these tips into consideration to increase your safety while using these platforms.
Maddie Cutler's Blog 