How to Keep Your Instagram and Facebook Accounts Locked Down

Social media is fantastic for connecting, sharing, and engaging, but it's essential to keep your Instagram and Facebook profiles secure to protect your personal data and privacy. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to help you lock down your accounts.

Why Secure Your Social Media?

Every year, thousands of social media accounts are compromised. Cybercriminals exploit vulnerabilities to steal personal data, impersonate individuals, and spread scams. Taking these easy steps can significantly reduce your risks.

How to Secure Instagram

Step 1: Strong Passwords

Always use a unique, strong password.
Mix upper and lower-case letters, numbers, and special characters.
Change passwords regularly.

Step 2: Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Go to your Instagram profile.
Tap on 'Settings'.
Select 'Security' and then 'Two-Factor Authentication'.
Choose 'Authentication App' or 'Text Message' to add an extra security layer.
More information on 2FA can be found in this guide.

Step 3: Private Account

Navigate to your profile and tap the menu icon.
Go to 'Settings' then 'Privacy'.
Activate 'Private Account' to control who sees your posts.

Step 4: Manage Activity Status

Go to 'Settings' > 'Privacy' > 'Activity Status'.
Toggle off to prevent others from seeing when you're active.

Step 5: Limit Who Can Message You

Under 'Privacy', choose 'Messages'.
Adjust settings to control who can directly message you.

How to Secure Facebook

Step 1: Update Your Password

Ensure it’s different from your other accounts.
Regularly update it for enhanced security.

Step 2: Two-Factor Authentication

Click the menu icon and select 'Settings & Privacy'.
Select 'Settings', then go to 'Security and login'.
Click 'Use two-factor authentication'.
Choose your preferred method (app or SMS).

Step 3: Privacy Check-up

Go to 'Settings & Privacy' and select 'Privacy Check-up'.
Follow the prompts to manage who sees your profile, posts, and personal details.

Step 4: Manage Profile Visibility

Go to your profile and select 'Edit Details'.
Control who can see your information by adjusting each detail's audience.

Step 5: Control Your Posts

Each time you post, select who can view it (Public, Friends, or Custom).
Regularly review past posts and update visibility settings.

Step 6: Control Tagging

Visit 'Settings & Privacy' > 'Settings' > 'Profile and Tagging'.
Adjust who can see posts you're tagged in and who can tag you.

General Security Tips

Avoid clicking suspicious links, even if sent by friends. Check out this guide for more info.
Regularly check active sessions to see where your account is logged in.
Keep your apps updated to benefit from the latest security patches.

Stay Vigilant

Security isn't a one-time action. Regularly review your privacy settings and stay informed about the latest security features.

For more help or personalised advice, get in touch with Workhorse IT, your trusted guide to secure digital living in Devon and beyond!