Facebook users warned about dangers of being app happy
Facebook users are being urged to be wary about what Facebook applications they accept and what links they click as cyber criminals increasingly target the popular social networking site.
Both Trend Micro and Facebook say the number of Facebook users affected by such security issues is small at the moment, but both have provided tips to help users keep their profiles safe.
Here are some of their suggestions:
- Be judicious about installing applications. David Perry, global director of education for Trend Micro, said the safest is not to install any. “I don’t throw snowballs… I don’t have an aquarium. I don’t do any of those things.”
- When you do install an app, check its reputation first. Check Facebook’s application list and scan the reviews, said Yaneza. “Read before you install. Look before you leap.”
- If a link or message seems weird, don’t click on it. If it seems to be from a friend, let them know, as someone may be pretending to be them, Facebook says.
- Make sure information you post on Facebook isn’t something that could be used to verify your identity. Perry said users should be careful what they reveal in a popular Facebook game in which they share 25 random facts about themselves with their friends. “Don’t give away your mother’s maiden name or your pet’s name or anything you would use as a personal question,” he said, adding those are becoming increasingly valuable.
- Add a security question to your account. That way, you can prove your identity to Facebook if your account gets stolen, the site says.
- Report spam or abuse you see on discussion boards and walls. Facebook provides links that allow you to report such problems.
- Watch out for sites that imitate Facebook. Don’t enter your password unless you’re sure you’re entering it on the real Facebook site.
- Guard your password. Don’t use the same password on Facebook that you use on other sites, and don’t share the password with anyone.
- Don’t use Facebook? Create a profile anyway. That will help discourage other people from masquerading as you, Yaneza said.
Full Story: http://www.cbc.ca/technology/story/2009/03/03/tech-facebook-security.html