Around 45 percent of the German population is active on social media – with an average of 6 profiles each. While some people visit online social platforms sporadically to catch up on the latest gossip, frequent users invest a lot of time to manifest their digital presence. Contacts are made, information and opinions are shared and exchanged, discussions on professional topics are started, or generous Likes are distributed to express interest. Self-marketing also plays an essential role for many social media users. All too often, the line between private and professional exchanges becomes blurred – this is especially true in times of home office. But anyone who reveals too much about themselves, their work or their company is unintentionally playing into the hands of cyber criminals.

Make it difficult for cyber criminals – these measures help

What can companies do to protect themselves and their employees from the risks of social media? - The following measures are fundamental:

  • Educate instead of making it taboo: A general ban on use is rarely effective. Instead, understandable guidelines and useful tips on how to use social media create clarity and trust.
  • Differentiate between private and professional use: Even in times of home office, private use of social media must be separated from professional use. This applies in particular with regard to the use of private end devices for business purposes.
  • Determine procedures and points of contact: Establish specific processes and reporting procedures in the event of incompliance with applicable guidelines. In addition, offer support and advice on questions relating to the use of social media, and appoint qualified contact persons for this purpose.
  • Regularly raise awareness and provide training: Make your employees and managers aware of the dangers of social media and conduct regular awareness and training measures that meet the needs of the target group.

Vigilant use of social media: The devil is in the details.

Cyber criminals are always looking for information they can use for social engineering attacks, identity theft or other criminal activities. Whether it's photos from the home office, spontaneous comments on other postings, or access to the company network via private devices – as we all know, the devil is in the details. It is therefore all the more important to raise awareness and provide regular training. We at Security-Island support you in this and offer with our e-learning Social Media Vigilance a professional tool that makes a valuable contribution to information security.