Social Media Hacking Raises Alarm
JACKSON, Tenn. – Some are fearful that they too could be targeted by social media hackers. Others think it is just a matter of being careful. Facebook might be fun. But with hackers always on the prowl, some tweets could leave you trembling. “I’m extremely scarred that someone’s going to go in there and mess up my entire reputation,” said Facebook user Mia Pollaro. Experts said what you do, or do not do, can increase your chance of being targeted. “People leave their phones laying around,” said technology solutions specialist Willie George. “And now that phones are tied to Twitter accounts, if they don’t have a passcode on their phone, then anyone who picks up their phone would have access.” So protecting yourself could be as simple as a four-digit code that only you know. “It think it’s very important to secure your Facebook page, your email, and your phone using a password for all of them,” said Facebook user Jan Bynum. “Logging out wherever you’re on Facebook is key.” But there is good news if a hacker hits you. The damage that can be done is limited, according to experts. “Clicking those kind of links anymore, because of security measures in browsers, cannot affect your computer directly,” said George. “The most it can do is send out messages that may be embarrassing on your Twitter feed of Facebook wall.” While the thought of online hacking may seem intimidating, experts said to just keep a watchful eye and use common sense. “Things in cyber space are very similar to the reel world,” said George. “If something looks out of place, leave it alone just to be safe.”
