Protect yourself online: data you should never share

December 30, 2024

Sharing information on social networks and other online platforms has become a common and natural practice for many of us. We frequently post photos, status updates, or details about our daily lives on social media, enabling us to connect with friends and family, share special moments, and discover creative ideas.

However, this habit can put our privacy and security at risk if our personal data falls into the hands of cybercriminals who can use it to commit fraud, identity theft, and other crimes. Therefore, being aware of the dangers and taking steps to protect our data allows us to enjoy technology without jeopardizing our privacy and reputation.

We have compiled a list of personal data that you should never share online—along with the reasons why and our recommendations for keeping them protected. Understanding the importance of each will help you be better prepared to face risks.

Email Address and Phone Number

Although we use our email and phone number to register on online platforms, sharing them openly can expose us to risks such as spam, phishing (deceptive and fraudulent emails), and other social engineering-based attacks. Cybercriminals can use this information to access personal accounts or impersonate us.

Use secondary email accounts for registrations and avoid publicly sharing your phone number, whether landline or mobile.

Postal address and geographical location

Sharing your real-time location or your home address can put you in danger, especially if someone with malicious intentions knows where you live or when you’re not at home—for example, due to an “out of office” message.

Disable geolocation on social networks and avoid posting information that could reveal patterns in your daily routine.

Photos of minors

Posting photos of minors, whether your own children or relatives, is a serious risk. These images can end up in the wrong hands or be used without your consent.

Carefully evaluate before sharing minor images on social networks and verify their use in educational centers. If you decide to do so, make sure your privacy settings are strict.

Compromising photos

Sexting, or sharing personal images, can be dangerous. These images could be used for crimes such as sextortion or cyberbullying.

Never share intimate photos, not even with trusted individuals. Once published, you lose control of them.

Personal documents

Your ID card, employment contracts, or banking information are clear targets for cybercriminals. With this data, they can commit identity theft or financial fraud.

Protect this information and avoid uploading it to the cloud without encryption.

Opinions, complaints, and compromising comments

The internet is a space for self-expression, but a single ill-considered comment can have negative repercussions. You could create conflicts, damage your reputation, or even become a victim of online harassment.

Think carefully before posting. A message can be misinterpreted and have unexpected consequences.

Private conversations

Private conversations contain sensitive information that should never be exposed. If you share them, you could jeopardize both your own and others' privacy.

Use secure messaging apps and avoid sending sensitive personal data through chats.

Secure internet and social media access

● Configure your social networks’ privacy settings: Limit who can view your posts and access your profile.

● Use secure and unique passwords: Change your passwords regularly and avoid reusing them.

● Be wary of suspicious links: Always verify the source of emails and messages before clicking on a link.

● Consult cybersecurity experts: If in doubt, turn to trusted resources such as Incibe and the OSI.

Conclusion

The internet has transformed the way we communicate, work, and enjoy our leisure time. However, it has also introduced challenges that require our attention and responsibility.

From compromising photos to personal documents and opinions, every piece of data we share can have serious repercussions if we don’t take the proper precautions. Therefore, being aware of the dangers of exposing our information, ensuring the safety of your personal data, and avoiding sharing details that could put you at risk is essential to enjoying a safe digital environment.