Archives - Personal Information


Don’t use real photos of yourself if you don’t have to

Many sites allow you to upload “avatars” of yourself which are generally posted next to your username any time you make a post. You don’t have to use a real photo of yourself, however. Instead, use any other image that doesn’t reveal who you are.

Don’t enter your credit card information anywhere unless you plan to purchase something

Some sites or people online might say they need your credit card information for something like identity verification. Don’t respond to these requests. Be extremely careful whenever you give anyone or any website or app financial information that can be used to charge you.

Don’t leave yourself open to swatting attacks

A nightmare scenario for any streamer or gamer is a swatting attack. This is when someone finds out who you are, where you live and calls in a fake threat to a local police station. The police take every threat seriously, and more than one person has died as a result of a swatting attack. […]

Avoid accidentally revealing personal information online

Be careful when streaming, gaming, chatting online, taking photos, or doing anything else that might compromise your privacy. It’s extremely easy to accidentally reveal your identity and location online. Whether you’re a streamer who does business from their home, a gamer with a microphone or showing yourself online in any form, take steps to conceal […]

Watch out for shoulder surfing

When you are in public areas cybercriminals can simply glance over your shoulder as you type. By just watching you, they can steal sensitive or personal information. Screen protectors which prevent shoulder-surfers from seeing your device screen can be purchased for a small expense. For smaller devices, such as phones, be aware of your surroundings […]

Be cautious using public Wi-Fi

Be cautious about what you do on public Wi-Fi and use a VPN if possible. Another option is to look for semi-public networks with passwords that are provided by staff or on printed receipts, like at restaurants or coffee shops. Up-to-date security software is also a must-have to safeguard you from any malware you might […]