A comprehensive guide to using social media when your safety’s at risk

Social media's rapid news dissemination capabilities are invaluable, especially during significant events. However, sharing information from unsafe locations presents considerable risks, including surveillance, cyberattacks, and physical harm. This guide outlines strategies for safer social media use in high-risk situations. These tips also enhance everyday online safety.

Before posting, review this checklist. For optimal security, explore the individual settings of your preferred platforms. While complete invincibility is unattainable, these steps significantly improve your online security.

Account Security:

Cyberattacks are prevalent in conflict zones and during protests. Strong passwords are crucial. Use a password manager if needed. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on all platforms for enhanced protection against unauthorized access, even if your credentials are compromised. Many platforms offer built-in safety checks; utilize these features for greater account control.

Location Protection:

Posts can inadvertently reveal your location. Disable location services on your phone. Avoid geotagging posts. On platforms like Instagram, modify existing geotags to broader locations or remove them entirely where possible. Twitter's web interface allows for the complete removal of past location data from tweets, though this may take time and doesn't affect third-party apps. Consider using a VPN to mask your IP address and enhance your online privacy.

Post Protection:

Even with location services disabled, posts can contain revealing information. Consider making your accounts private to limit visibility to trusted contacts. Alternatively, selectively limit audience access for individual posts. Instagram's "Close Friends" feature and similar options on other platforms allow for controlled sharing. Blur faces and backgrounds in photos and videos to further protect identities and locations. Before taking photos or videos, be mindful of background details that could reveal your location.

Responding to a Hack:

If you suspect a compromise, check for unusual activity (unfamiliar logins or unauthorized posts). Immediately lock down your accounts. Most platforms offer account recovery procedures; utilize these if you lose access. TikTok's recovery process is more complex and may require direct contact if email and phone access are compromised. Preventive measures, including regular security checks and linking accounts to alternative contact methods, are crucial.

Account Deactivation or Deletion:

For safety or privacy reasons, you can deactivate or delete your accounts. Deactivation is temporary; deletion is permanent (though data may be retained for a period). Facebook offers both options. Twitter offers deactivation, which effectively deletes after a period. Instagram separates deactivation and deletion. TikTok deactivates for 30 days before permanent deletion. Remember to download your data before deletion if desired.

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