8 Social Media Posts That Can Cost You

Are you compromising your personal security on social media? Think twice before sharing these eight types of posts to protect yourself better.

Social media allows us to connect in ways that weren’t possible just a few decades ago. The number of devices that can connect to the internet continues to increase, as is the number of devices that can host social media apps. It is good to share on Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, etc. However, there are times when these simple actions can compromise your personal security.

When you post on social media, be careful what you share with your friends and the public. It may come back to hurt you. Here are eight social media posts that can cost you.

1. Vacation Posts

After saving up for your vacation, it is understandable that you may be tempted to express your excitement on social media. When you go to prominent vacation destinations, the feeling of fulfillment might tempt you to share some pictures.

The downside of this action is that vandals and thieves take your vacation pictures as a sign that you’re living well.

The fact that you are also not physically at home might just make you an ideal target for a home break-in. Avoid posting comments about your vacation before or after.

2. Data Tied to Your Financial Information

When you are on social media, giving up information about your finances isn’t wise. It’s also never a good idea to post your home address, telephone number, mother’s maiden name, Social Security number, etc. Hackers can easily put this information together, and before you know it, somebody is applying for credit cards in your name.

3. Location Posts

Not only can posting about your location give you away easily and allow almost anyone to track you down, but it’s also an indication of where you are not located at the moment.

When you post that you are at the airport, it tells people that you are not at home or in the office. Posting information about your location may make you fall prey to organized theft.

4. Posts Depicting Irresponsibility

It is a fact that recruiters and employers browse through social media profiles to determine the eligibility of job applicants. Nude pictures or pictures showing you consuming alcohol and smoking contraband are definitely going to hurt your ability to get a job. Keep such pictures private.

5. Work-Related Information

It is essential that you are cautious about what you post regarding your work-related projects. An innocent status update about you missing a deadline could provide valuable information to your competitors. This information could be leveraged against your company. This is why some companies and employers forbid employees from using social media on the job.

6. Comments Containing Password Hints

Most websites that are password protected require a password hint in case you forget your password. It is essential you refrain from commenting about objects that are related to your password hints.

If your pet’s name is your password hint, you should not mention your pet’s name on social media. Hackers and identity thieves are usually on the prowl for this type of information, and they know when you have accidentally taken the bait.

7. Party Posts

Refrain from posting details about your party on social media. You may get more guests than your budget can handle if you do. Moreover, you stand the risk of disrupting your party in its entirety by way of a security threat.

8. New Acquisitions

It is common for people to post pictures of items they just acquired. Burglars and thieves may be better motivated to pay you a visit if they know you’ve just bought a new car, TV or laptop and the value of these items.

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Reviewed October 2023