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Facebook open book for fraudsters |
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The latest Facebook data breach has left millions of users at risk of ID fraud, highlighting the problems associated with social networking sites. Facebook accidentally exposed the date of birth of members, even those who wanted the information kept secret. ID fraud expert, Equifax, highlights just how valuable personal information is and offers advice to individuals keen to keep their identity safe.The Facebook incident left people’s date of birth exposed to anyone logging onto the site, regardless of privacy settings in place. This follows another breach in March, where users’ photos could be seen by anyone, including pictures Paris Hilton meant only for her friends.“Although, Facebook has corrected the problem now, access to the date of birth of millions of users is a golden opportunity for fraudsters,” explains Neil Munroe, External Affairs Director of Equifax. “It’s terrifying how little information fraudsters need to be able to open accounts in an individual’s name, rack up huge debts and leave the victim, at best to spend hundreds of hours sorting out the problem and at worse, picking up the bill. “Despite worrying lapses in security, people still don’t seem to realise how valuable their information is. One of our recent surveys reveals that of those using social networking sites, 21 per cent do not use the privacy setting at all. 87 per cent have their full name and 38 per cent their date of birth on their profile. 27 per cent place their education history online and 26 per cent do the same with their work history.
“Social networkers need to think really carefully about what information they put on these sites. Ongoing monitoring of their bank and credit information will help them spot fraudulent activity sooner rather than later. Social networking sites do have privacy settings, but many people still don’t use them. We advise users to put only the most basic of personal details on these sorts of sites, making it harder for ID fraudsters.”
Equifax Top Tips for Using Social Network Sites
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Don’t include common verification such as your date of birth or your mothers maiden name
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Set up privacy on your profile so only close friends can view your information
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If you are going on holiday or you will be left in your home alone, don’t put it on your site. This could leave you vulnerable to break ins
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Potential partners and employers are often searching names on these sites. Don’t put anything on your site which could ruin your chances of a new job or boyfriend/girlfriend
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Be wary of anyone you meet on these sites. The photo may be deceptive and they may have different intentions. |
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