Module 5. Security on Social Networking Sites

   

Security on Social Networking Sites



DEFINITION

Social networking sites help users connect, share content, and communicate online. Platforms like LinkedIn focus on professionals, while Facebook and Bebo serve general communities. These sites enable networking, job searching, and information sharing but also pose risks like identity theft and privacy concerns. While they can strengthen relationships, some argue they lead to social isolation.

RISKS

  • Social networking sites pose several security risks, including:

    • Phishing – Attackers trick users into revealing personal information through fake websites and emails.
    • Identity Theft – Hackers gather and misuse personal details for fraud, financial theft, or blackmail.
    • Malware – attacks carried out through social engineering mislead users into clicking malicious links embedded within personal messages
    • Site Flaws – Vulnerabilities in websites allow attackers to bypass privacy settings and steal data.
    • URL Spoofing – Fake URLs mimic legitimate ones to mislead users into visiting malicious sites.
    • Clickjacking – Users unknowingly click hidden malicious links, leading to security breaches.
    • Social Engineering – Attackers manipulate victims into sharing sensitive data through direct (phishing) or indirect (shoulder surfing) techniques.

RISKS FOR CHILDREN

A major risk is contact with predators, where pedophiles disguise themselves as children to befriend and exploit minors. To mitigate this, profiles should be set to private, and parents must monitor their children's online activity. Social networking platforms have privacy policies, and regulations should ensure that profiles of users under 18 are automatically private. Facebook and similar platforms offer privacy settings that should be properly utilized for safety.

GEOTAGGING

Geotagging is the process of adding geographical coordinates (latitude and longitude) to media like photos and status updates. Smartphones use GPS and location services to enable geotagging in camera and social media apps.

While useful for apps like cab booking and phone tracking, geotagging poses security risks by exposing personal locations. Social media users can unintentionally reveal their frequent locations, making them vulnerable to stalking, tracking, and potential threats. Platforms like Instagram and Flickr even map out a user’s activity, increasing risks, especially for children.

Disabling geotagging in a camera does not completely prevent location tracking. Social networking sites like Instagram still use geotagging technology to record locations when users post status updates, tweets, or pictures.

On Instagram, Photo Map allows users to see the exact locations where pictures were taken, making it easier for others to track their movements. This poses privacy and security risks, as it can reveal a user's frequent locations.

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