These days, nearly all small businesses are on social media. You gotta have skin in the social media game to be a contender.

Most businesses utilize social media to grow brand awareness and engage customers, but it can also be a double-edged sword.

While your company is getting great exposure, you’re also exposing yourself to a whole new world of cyber-crime.

Social media offers a wealth of opportunities for cybercriminals. In fact, social media has become the fastest-growing enterprise for cyber-crime. 

What we share on social media opens the door to attackers to collect enough information to infect your network with malware, steal credentials, or even gain access to your property. 

Here's how you can take advantage of aaaaalllll the marketing perks social media has to offer without compromising sensitive information.

1) Limit and inspect access to your accounts.  

Even if someone else manages your account, always maintain access and check activity regularly. Only share account access with key employees, but don’t give that same access to everyone. The less sharing going on, the fewer opportunities you give hackers to steal access.

2) Designate a new email address for your social media accounts.   

Create an email address exclusively for social media accounts. If you use the same email for everything and someone gets their hands on it, you give them a free pass... to EVERYTHING.  

3) Avoid using public Wi-Fi.

Here's a favorite trick of the trade! Hackers create fake public Wi-Fi connections and if you fall for it, they can easily steal confidential information.

Connecting to public Wi-Fi can also expose your laptop or phone to viruses and malware. We know business owners are always working even while at restaurants, airports, and coffee shops, so when you have to connect publicly, use a VPN!

4) Get a reliable VPN.

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) works by masking your IP address. Using a VPN will give you a secure, encrypted connection when using a public internet connection. Having a VPN is a smart investment because it is one of the easiest ways to protect your online privacy for pennies on the dollar.  

5) Purchase and install antivirus software.

The most common, yet effective way to secure your business computers and mobile devices is by using antivirus software. Not all antivirus software is created equal, so do your homework when choosing which one! Look for highly-rated software options for trust and reliability.  

Social media is an excellent tool for connecting with your customer base, but it can also serve as an excellent tool for hackers to steal your data. Don't be vulnerable to security risks!