Online messaging technology has been around for over two decades, but as sophisticated as these systems get, hackers seem to be one step ahead. Are you sure you’re protected? Sadly, most people are not, and what’s worse, most people truly aren’t protected against hackers and online privacy invaders. Thankfully, there are a few simple tips that can help you stay safer when communicating online, including:
Don’t Share Personal Information
One of the easiest ways to avoid becoming the victim of a problem online when sending and receiving messages is to simply avoiding sharing personal information? The fact is that many people become too comfortable with placing personal information online these days, and this can lead to serious issues. Even if you use a screenname, it can be possible for hackers to trace your information when you provide it, so always be aware of what you’re sharing.
Messaging Services Store Your Data
Something else to consider is how messaging services store your data. Most store indefinitely as a part of their terms and conditions. These are the things you agree to that probably don’t read fully when installing new software. After all, it’s easier to scroll through and check the “Yes, I’ve read the terms and conditions and agree to them” box rather than try to sift through the legal jargon.
The problem with this is that these companies can hold you legally liable, and they can also exercise their legal power in court to hold you responsible le for things you said online. As a result, it’s best to read your agreements carefully, but it’s even better to hold your tongue if you aren’t willing to back something up in court.
Leave No Stone Unturned
The bottom line is that you should never say anything online that you don’t plan to admit to in public. As we’ve seen in the past year with the debacle involving so-called instant-delete messaging programs, which promise to erase you messages and pictures seconds after you send them, there is almost always still a network in place that captures and stores your communication. This isn’t even to mention the prospect of the government getting involved and archiving your communications due to an off-hand remark.
As a result, always think twice before sending a message, making an online comment, or updating your social media feeds. You never know who will be able to see these messages down the road.
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