The internet and social media have opened wide, new doors for people to stay connected and build relationships. Facebook, Twitter and emails are part of normal life - and we depend on them!
"Life happens." At any time - and usually when it's least expected – you may discover one of your social media accounts has been compromised.
Have you seen…
unexpected messages sent from your account?
account behaviors you didn't do or approve (following, unfollowing, or blocking)?
random and unusual ads in abnormal places on your social media sites?
If so, take the following steps as quickly as possible:
1. Change your password from the Passwords Tab in your Account Settings. Select a "strong" password with a combination of letters (capital and lower case), numbers, and characters you haven't used before that would be very hard for someone else to figure out.
2. Revoke app connections. 'App" is short for application, which is a piece of software. It can run on the Internet, on your computer, or on your phone or other electronic device. Most of us don't realize how many apps our social media accounts are connected to, and these connections can potentially open a door for malicious activity. While logged in, visit the Applications tab in Account Settings. Revoke access for any third-party application that you don't recognize, don't use, or don't need. Seriously consider deleting any new apps, because they may be the cause of the problem.
3. If your computer runs in a Windows environment and you believe you may have downloaded troublesome software, do a "System Restore" to a time prior to that download.
4. Run anti-virus and malware scanners.
Stay prepared - just in case. Always keep your system backed up. Keep your anti-virus and malware software up-to-date and schedule regular system scans. That way, if there is an infiltration, you can hopefully catch it and remove it quickly and completely without undue consequences.
And, last but not least... if someone you follow sends you a notice that you have a chance to win a $1000 or a new iPad - don’t open it! Contact the person it came from and ask if they sent it. They'll probably be very glad you let them know!
Are you looking for a marketing company to partner with who consistently cares–connects–and is committed to communicating YOUR message and building YOUR online relationships? Our focus at Now Marketing Group is to ensure that your business will be found, be social and be useful online!
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- © 2012 NOW Marketing Group, Inc.
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