Today, I’m taking a look at something that’s extremely important but often overlooked: social media security.
On Tuesday January 9, 2024, the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) had a nightmare scenario. Someone hacked its X/Twitter account and posted a fake announcement about approving a bitcoin exchange-traded fund (ETF). This false news caused a spike in the price of bitcoin before the SEC clarified that their account was “compromised”.
Can you just imagine that?? Well, if it can happen to the SEC, it can happen to anyone.
Practical Tips for Securing Your Social Media Accounts
As social media managers, content managers, and small business owners, we need to take these threats seriously. So, how can we protect our accounts and our brand’s reputation? Here are some tips to keep your social media accounts secure and prevent unauthorised access.
1. Use Strong, Unique Passwords
First things first: your passwords. Make them strong and unique. Mix upper and lower case letters, numbers, and special characters. Avoid using obvious passwords like “123456” or “password.” And remember to change them regularly. Using a password manager can help you easily keep track of the tons of passwords you need to maintain.
2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Two-factor authentication is your friend! Two-factor authentication is your friend! I really can’t say this enough. 2FA adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification, like a code sent to your phone or an authentication app. Even if someone gets your password, 2FA can stop them in their tracks.
3. Limit Who Has Access
Access to your social pages shouldn’t be like giving out pizza; only give access to people who really need it. Not everyone on your team needs full control. Set up role-based permissions so team members only have access to what they need to do their job.
4. Keep an Eye on Activity
Regularly check your account activity. Look for any unusual or unauthorised actions. Most social media platforms have activity logs that show logins and actions taken. If something looks fishy, investigate immediately.
5. Train Your Team
Make sure everyone who handles your social media knows about security best practices. Regular training can help prevent mistakes that could lead to a breach. It’s not enough to have security policies, it’s crucial to check they are being followed.
6. Use Secure Connections
Yes, Nigerians tend to like free things, but avoid logging into your social media accounts on public Wi-Fi. These networks can be easy targets for hackers. If you need to work remotely, use a virtual private network (VPN) to keep your connection secure.
Conclusion
The SEC hack is a wake-up call. If a huge organisation like that can get hacked, small businesses need to be extra careful. Social media security isn’t just about protecting your accounts; a breach could lead to lost customer trust and revenue. By following these best practices, you can protect your accounts and your brand’s reputation.