In a word – NO. The holidays are a time to share, and the pandemic has increased our need to share exponentially. Thanks to social media, we can share it all. We share pictures of our Christmas dinner. We share pictures of the gifts. We share pictures of the tree. We share pictures of our trip to Grandma’s house. We share pictures of our holiday ski trip. We share pictures telling where we’ll be on New Year’s. We share pictures of EVERYTHING.
We share information on our children. What grade they’re in, where they go to school, when the holiday program is being held. And, our kids share everything. Who their friends are. What they’re doing after school. And on it goes.
Social media allows predators and scammers to know a lot about our families. Perhaps more than we do.
But – is that a good idea? In a word – NO.
Although home security has boomed with cameras and WiFi doorbells, those who want to get into homes are quite often successful. So – is it the wisest move to show pictures of the new 86” flat screen or your new diamond bracelet, and the trip you’re taking? Does everyone need to know that you’re not at home?
What about your kids or grandkids? Unfortunately, there are a lot of people out there who are very interested in the lives of your children. They want to know about extracurricular activities. They want to know where your child lives. They want to know what their holiday schedule is. They don’t have your child’s best interests at heart.
Watch that selfie! Is it a “TMI selfie”? You know – Too Much Information. That’s the one with the beautiful Christmas tree AND the bank statement on the table that’s visible in the photo or the mirrored image of information on your computer. Be aware of what is in the background. You may be giving away TMI!
Many people grew up in a world without technology….a world of privacy. They didn’t share everything, and when they did share, it wasn’t easy to reach a mass following. Information was shared by snail mail or by telephone (one call at a time). Film was purchased for cameras, pictures were taken, and the film was sent away to be developed. Then it was mailed back to you. Snail mailed.
Not today. It happens at 1:00 and it’s on social media at 1:01. There is no respect for privacy. Cameras are everywhere from our phones to traffic signals. Be cognizant of that, and don’t add to the volumes of information that is available.
The holidays make us especially vulnerable, and posting pictures of identifying information or personal information increases that vulnerability. Be aware of what you post, and what you post in real time.
Enjoy the holidays and stay safe!
