The digital era has opened up many more ways malicious actors can threaten the security of your organization. While we often think of the threat of computer viruses and malware that can come from unsafe websites and emails, social networking dangers also pose a threat to a company’s cybersecurity.
Not only is social media another way in which hackers can gain access to sensitive company systems and data, but it also is another area in which employees may not follow best practices. It is a threat to both the organization and its followers and customers. Let’s take a look at the top social networking dangers to your company.
1. Malware and Viruses
Malware and viruses can be spread via social media, just as they can through email. Employees need to be educated on how to recognize risky links and messages when on your organization’s social media platforms. They also need to know how to recognize spam, such as fake giveaways, which can be masked as communications from customers. Along with the proper education, you should have a robust cybersecurity system to protect your systems.
2. Identity Theft
The whole point of social media is to show customers and followers that there are real people behind a company. However, it can be easy to post too much personal information, making it easy for bad actors to steal an employee’s identity. Educate employees to avoid sharing personal details, such as their full name, date of birth, or the names of their pets or children.
3. Sensitive Information Leaks
The more employees that have access to and can post on your company’s social media pages, the higher the risk of sensitive or confidential information being leaked. For this reason, it is best to limit the number of people who are permitted to post on your social media accounts and make sure they are aware of the potential threats on social media, so they can take care when making their posts.
4. Password Leaks
Passwords can be accessed by criminals on social media, just as they can through other avenues. For this reason, it is vital that you have a thorough password policy and that your employees are educated on how to create strong passwords and follow all company guidelines on where to store them and when to change them.
5. Harmful Comments from Employees
Employees posting on your company’s social media accounts may mean well, but they can inadvertently say something that is offensive or otherwise damaging to your company’s reputation. This can include making a comment about a current event or giving a personal opinion. Make sure all employees who post on your social media accounts are following best practices in terms of what they are allowed to comment on, ensuring they stick to company-related posts.
6. Phishing and Impersonation
Your employees aren’t the only targets of online criminals. Followers and customers can be tricked into providing sensitive information, such as credit card numbers, by malicious actors who send messages that appear to come from your company or create fake social media accounts that look like your company’s account. To protect yourself:
- Monitor social media accounts created by you and search for those that aren’t
- Communicate with customers through email, on your website, and via social media, and let them know you will never contact them and ask for personal information
- Delete any comments that are suspicious and report fake accounts
- Make sure your company’s accounts have strong passwords
7. Negative Reviews
Finally, your company can suffer reputational damage and loss of sales simply from customers posting negative reviews and bad experiences. You can’t control what people post on social media. However, you can get in front of it by responding quickly and professionally, offering to make it right to the best of your ability.
Social media has the power to help you grow your brand reputation. But it can also be used against you. The above tips will help you keep your company safe on social media, so you can reap the benefits it has to offer.
Contact Platinum Technologies today to find out how we can help you protect your company’s systems, data, and reputation on social media.
