We here at Jay's Blog of Good Intent value your online security and privacy. Owing to the recent increase in reports of social media "hacking", here are some tips to protect yourself from online mischief.
0. Use a strong password,
but one that you can easily recall. The general guideline is, the password should be:
- 8 characters long;
- a mix of UPPER and lowercase letters;
- a couple of numb3r5;
- and specia| char@cters.
Needless to say, names of family members and birth dates are NOT recommended, as the "hacker", if he knows you, can easily guess those and "hack" into your account.
1. Add Two-factor authentication.
This enables you to have a second line of defense against someone who knows your password. Say, a "hacker" figures out your password; normally, that's all he would need to gain access to your account, right? With two-factor authentication, facebook will still require a security code before the "hacker" can finally access your account.
Here's how to setup two-factor authentication:
- Settings & Privacy > Privacy Shortcuts > Account security > Use two-factor authentication
- Select from the available methods. Easiest one is Text message (SMS) verification code. Once setup, Facebook will send you a security code whenever you or someone successfully logs in with your correct password.
So in my hacking scenario earlier, the security code will be sent to your cellphone as an SMS message. Unless the hacker also has physical access to your mobile phone, he won't be able to find out this security code. Plus this has the added benefit of you being alerted that someone is attempting to login to your account.
2. Receive alerts about unrecognized logins. (Optional)
You can even go Full-Blown Paranoid and setup the setting to Receive alerts about unrecognized logins. This is an easy way of getting alerted if someone successfully logs in to your account from a device other than the one you are normally using. Take for example, when a cybercriminal gains unauthorized access to your Messenger from his criminal cellphone or computer, you will get notified. At least you are aware, right?
Here's how to set it up:
- Settings & Privacy > Privacy Shortcuts > Account security > Receive alerts about unrecognized logins
- Check to get notifications for each of the corresponding events, then Save Changes.
In conclusion, these are just some of the simplest ways to protect yourself online. Have a safe quarantine, everyone!
