If you are going to become a published author and you are going to be in the limelight, aka do the social media thing to promote your book, then consider this; 200 million people log-in to Facebook everyday. Not all of them are the greatest of people.
If you think about it 10% of those people are actively trying to cause harm to others for their own gain. That would be 20,000,000 people trying to get at your goods.
The access to potential readers is great for marketing yourself but it also means you're a target. You no longer have the luxury of remaining anonymous.
Everyone thinks writers are rich so the importance of protecting yourself is pinnacle. Before you're scammed take precautions.
Social Media.
Be aware of the personal settings for all your social media accounts. Stay aware of the latest email scams. Use a pseudo name for purchases online. Of course use your real name when needed. But you don't need to have things addressed directly to you.
On-line purchases.
Wikipedia is going to have your pets name, your birth year, the time of your latest bowel movement so when you set up your accounts--lie. Lie about the questions. It's too easy for a hacker to call your bank with your name, your pets name, your mother's maiden name and your birth date to get into your account.
Phones.
Remember your phone is the weakest link in security. Don't transmit sensitive information.
Passwords.
Strong passwords with cute curly cues and exclamation points are going to be much more secure than "stealme123".
I know this sounds like a great article for life lock, but please take in mind that what I'm saying is a reality. Protect yourself before you expose yourself.
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