With more of our lives happening online—from chatting with friends to running businesses—keeping your messaging and social media accounts safe is more important than ever. Scammers and hackers are everywhere, but with a few simple habits, you can protect yourself and your information. Here’s how to do it, step by step.
1. Lock Down Your WhatsApp
- Enable Two-Step Verification:
Go to WhatsApp > Settings > Account > Two-step verification > Enable.
This adds a PIN that only you know, making it much harder for anyone to access your account, even if they get your SIM card. - Keep Your App Updated:
Updates fix security gaps. Always use the latest version from Google Play Store or Apple App Store. - Be Wary of Suspicious Links & Messages:
Don’t click on strange links, even if they come from people you know. Accounts get hacked and used to spread scams. - Check Your Privacy Settings:
In Settings > Account > Privacy, control who can see your profile photo, last seen, and status. Set to “My Contacts” or “Nobody” for more privacy. - Log Out Devices You Don’t Recognize:
In WhatsApp Web/Desktop, see all devices logged in. If you spot one you don’t know, log it out immediately.
2. Tighten Security on Telegram
- Enable Two-Step Verification:
Go to Settings > Privacy and Security > Two-Step Verification. Set a strong password. - Check Active Sessions:
See where your account is logged in: Settings > Devices. Log out of any sessions you don’t recognize. - Control Who Can Contact You:
Use Privacy settings to limit who can add you to groups or see your phone number. - Use Secret Chats for Sensitive Info:
These are end-to-end encrypted and don’t leave a trace on Telegram’s servers. - Update Regularly:
Always use the latest Telegram app for the best security.
3. Make Your Facebook Account Safer
- Turn on Two-Factor Authentication (2FA):
Go to Settings & Privacy > Settings > Security and Login > Use two-factor authentication.
Choose SMS or, better yet, an authenticator app for extra protection. - Review Your Login Alerts:
Facebook can notify you if your account is accessed from a new device. Enable this in Security and Login settings. - Set Strong, Unique Passwords:
Never use the same password for Facebook as for other sites or email. - Check Your Privacy Settings:
Decide who can see your posts, friend list, and profile info. Set to “Friends” or “Only Me” for more privacy. - Be Careful with Friend Requests:
Only accept requests from people you know. Scammers often create fake profiles.
Extra Tips for Everyone in Africa
- Beware of SIM Swap Scams:
If your phone suddenly loses signal for no reason, contact your mobile provider immediately. Someone may be trying to hijack your number. - Don’t Share Verification Codes:
Never give out one-time codes sent by SMS or app—even to people you trust. No real company will ask for these. - Log Out on Shared Devices:
If you use cyber cafés or a friend’s phone, always log out of your accounts before leaving. - Educate Friends and Family:
Share these tips—security is even stronger when everyone around you is alert!
Final Word:
Your online safety is in your hands. Take a few minutes to update your settings and stay alert. A little effort now can save you a lot of trouble later!
