Practicals Ways to Stay Safe Online

Awareness matters — but so do simple, everyday habits that quietly protect you. None of this requires fear or constant vigilance. It’s about clarity and boundaries.

On Facebook (and similar social platforms)

1. Limit who can message you

   •   Set messages from people you don’t know to Requests or Don’t Receive- this will not send unknown senders messages

   •   You’re not obligated to keep your inbox open to strangers

2. Be mindful of new or empty profiles

   •   Recently created accounts

   •   Few photos or friends

   •   Overly flattering or rushed messages

These are common signals — not always malicious, but worth pausing before engaging.

3. Never move conversations off-platform quickly

   •   Requests to switch to WhatsApp, Telegram, or private email early on are a common tactic

   •   Staying on-platform gives you reporting and protection tools

4. Use block and report without guilt

   •   Blocking is not rude

   •   Reporting helps platforms recognize patterns and protect others

You don’t owe strangers access to your time or attention.

5. Keep personal details limited

   •   Avoid sharing:

      •   Phone numbers

      •   Daily routines

      •   Financial details

      •   Travel plans

Even casual oversharing can be pieced together.

Beyond Facebook — Online in General

6. Slow everything down

Scams rely on urgency.

Any message that pressures you to act now deserves a pause.

7. Be cautious with emotional storytelling

Scammers often build trust by sharing hardship quickly.

Genuine connections develop gradually.

8. Never send money, gift cards, or crypto

Especially to someone you haven’t met in person — no exceptions.

9. Use strong, unique passwords

   •   Different passwords for email, banking, and social media

   •   Consider a password manager if helpful

10. Know where to report

   •   In the U.S.:

      •   FTC (reportfraud.ftc.gov)

      •   FBI IC3 (ic3.gov)

Reporting isn’t about blame — it builds awareness and prevention.

One Quiet Truth

You don’t need to become suspicious of everyone.

You just need to trust yourself when something feels off.

Protection doesn’t come from fear.

It comes from boundaries, clarity, and permission to disengage.