Tips to protect yourself from cyberstalking and catfishing (II)
It is very important to know how cyberstalking works in order to protect yourself against these crimes. Mostly Cyberstalker aim at getting information or data which they use to commit crimes. Never provide any personal information about yourself online, no matter how safe you think it might be. Avoid revealing your real details to someone you do not know such as your real name, address, phone number, full date of birth, email address, or the city where you live.
Also, you need to know the status of your online presence. Try to search for yourself online and see what kind of information might pop up about you. you can make use of google to see websites that may have your informations. You can also try searching on social networks too. You can also check for profile of your family members to see whatever means by which they are connected to your profiles and if it doesn’t reveal sensitive information about you.
If you found out that by any mean your information is revealed on these websites, you will have to contact the website and ask to have the data removed. You can also contact google especially when it comes to sensitive personal information such as your Social Security number, bank account, or credit card number.
Here are a few tips on how to protect yourself against cyberstalking, whether it’s directed at you, your devices, or your family.
#1. Be very cautious about allowing someone to make use of your personal computer and other digital devices like your mobile phone. cyberstalker might install software in your device or attach hardware to your devices which would enable them to stalk you.
#2. Always log out accounts from your PC and devices when you are away or not using them. Teach your family to do the same
#3. When creating passwords, make sure to use a strong and complex combination applicable to you. Never reveal your password to any other person, ensure to change password frequently.
#4. Avoid putting your private calendar or locations and events online. Even on social media platforms. Cyberstalkers might use this information to know your movement and plans
#5. On social media platforms, ensure to use privacy settings to keep some of your personal information secrets to yourself. Such as where you work, and where you live. Make sure to limit your online sharing with those outside your trusted circle.
#6. Use security software to help prevent your PC from spyware created by phishing attack or an infected web page. This software can help to detect spyware on your device and decrease your chances of being cyberstalked.
