Course: CYSE 201S – Cybersecurity and the Social Sciences

Social media has become a major part of everyday life, but it also creates cybersecurity risks. Many users share personal details such as birthdays, locations, schools, and workplaces without realizing criminals can use this information. Cybercriminals often gather personal data from social media to commit identity theft or create convincing scams.

Another danger is the spread of malicious links and fake accounts. Attackers may impersonate trusted friends, companies, or public figures to trick users into clicking harmful links. Once clicked, these links can steal passwords or install malware.

To stay safe, users should limit the personal information they share, use strong passwords, and verify suspicious messages before responding. Social media offers many benefits, but users must remain aware of the risks that come with it.