International Women’s Day 2024: Stay Secure Online with These WhatsApp and Social Media Safety Strategies

Today, on March 8, the world celebrates International Women's Day by recognizing the achievements of women and advocating their empowerment. However, it is important to acknowledge the challenges women face online, including harassment and safety concerns. With millions of users connected to platforms like WhatsApp and other social media, privacy becomes an important issue.

These platforms offer a high level of customization, but this can also increase privacy fears, leading to a lack of protective behavior. In light of International Women's Day, here are some tips to promote a private, safe and inclusive experience while using WhatsApp and other social media platforms.

Empowering women online
Adjust your privacy settings
Limit who can see your profile, posts and stories. Consider using friend lists or close friend groups for more private interactions.

Be careful what you share
Think twice before sharing personal information such as your address, phone number or workplace on social media.

Greater control over privacy
If you want to share some personal details with someone on WhatsApp, the messaging app offers multiple features like disappearing that disappears within twenty-four hours, seven days or ninety days of sending. It also has a view-only option to share photos and videos without leaving a permanent digital record.

Beware of phishing scams
Do not click on suspicious links or attachments, and beware of messages asking for personal information.

Update your apps regularly
Updating social media apps will ensure you have the latest security patches and features.

Block and report
Don't hesitate to block or report anyone who makes you feel uncomfortable or unsafe. After blocking a contact or number, they won't be able to call you, send you messages, or see what you post.

Mute or unfollow negativity
Do not engage in arguments or negative discussions online. Social media platforms allow users to mute or unfollow users who contribute to a toxic environment.

Enable the 'Two-Step Verification' feature on WhatsApp
This adds an extra layer of security to your accounts. By enabling the 'Two-Step Verification' feature, WhatsApp will require a six-digit PIN while resetting and verifying your WhatsApp account.

Avoid adding to groups without consent
Now, you can customize who can add you in a group chat on WhatsApp. Users can go to Settings >> Privacy >> Groups, and set Everyone, My Contacts or None. If you select Everyone, anyone can add you to the group. When the My Contacts option is set, it means that someone from your contacts can only add you to the group. But when no one is enabled, you will receive a request whenever someone wants to add you to a group.