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5 Ways To Protect You Privacy Online

5 Ways To Protect You Privacy Online
susan-harmon-privacy

Are we sharing too much online?

We live in a culture now of instant gratification, where the moment something happens, it’s captured by a photograph and video and posted for the world to see. The question is, when does this sharing and posting become redundant and unnecessary. Where is the value to yourself and others.

The person who over shares on social media, text message and even in person is often at risk to annoy friend, family and loved ones. Being aware of who your audience is and what they like is important so as not to offend, annoy or alienate yourself from friends.

Stop Oversharing

The first thing you need to do is recognize that over-sharing personal and private info can be detrimental. Many people share private photos and don’t realize the consequences. These photos (and videos) can be used against them by ex-boyfriends / girlfriends, future bosses, and so on.

Ask: What is the value in sharing this item?

Sharing personal information is not the best idea over the internet, it seems harmless in the moment, but social media is fun, free advertising. Is there really value in sharing redundant pictures, quotes and or personal info to strangers. One it’s uploaded, it’s there forever. Save some photos just for loved ones. We are putting our lives on display for everyone to see, why not pick the best moment and things that we value out there. If the love is not returned, at least you are authentically sharing what you like.

Only Share Ceative or Innovative Posts

Does the post kill at least three birds with one stone, is it innovative, lets people know what you are up to and promotes something positive. Stay professional, don’t complain, stay positive and creative. Using collages and text on photos helps the viewer understand what is the point of the post. The best posts make you look good and promote something you care about. Good editing, filters and text is important to keep the post relevant.

Research What Gets the Most Feedback

Being in alignment with what people want to see is important. Sharing with friends and family needs to be thought over, the same way composing an e-mail or writing a paper. Think about the messages you are sending to the world. This is how people will judge you before, during and after they meet you. This is the world we live in, take the time think about what you put out there and how you wan to be seen. I found that people love transformation and motivation so go with what is enjoyed by you and others.

Learn from Others’ Mistakes

If you don’t like the way someone is handling their sharing, take note and see how you can change the direction of your posting. The most common mistake is losing the value of what you are sharing. Your life is the most precious thing you have, putting yourself and your loved ones on display invites attention you may not want. Only share the really good stuff. Some people feel it’s important to share the good the bad and the ugly…. but leave a little to the imagination

 

Tech

A Media Studies Graduate from Virginia Wesleyan College, Susan Elle has spent the last…