International Women’s Day 2024: Prioritize Your Safety with These WhatsApp and Social Media Tips

Today, on March 8, the world celebrates International Women’s Day, recognising women’s achievements and advocating for their empowerment. However, it is crucial to acknowledge the online challenges women encounter, including harassment and safety concerns. As millions of users engage with platforms like WhatsApp and other social media, privacy becomes a pressing issue.

These platforms offer high levels of customisation, but this can also heighten privacy fears, leading to a lack of protective behaviour. In light of International Women’s Day, here are some tips to foster a private, safe, and inclusive experience while using WhatsApp and social media platforms.

EMPOWERING WOMEN ONLINE

1. Adjust your privacy settingsLimit who can see your profile, posts, and stories. Consider using friend lists or close friend groups for more private interactions.
2. Be mindful of what you shareThink twice before sharing personal information like your address, phone number, or workplace on social media.
3. More control over privacyIn case you have to share some personal details with someone on WhatsApp, the messaging app offers multiple features like disappearing messages that disappear within twenty-four hours, seven days or ninety days after they are sent. It also has a view-only option to share photos and videos without leaving a permanent digital record.
4. Beware of phishing scamsDon’t click on suspicious links or attachments, and be cautious of messages asking for personal information.
5. Update your apps regularlyUpdating the social media apps will ensure that you have the latest security patches and features.
6. Block and ReportDon’t hesitate to block or report anyone who makes you feel uncomfortable or unsafe. After blocking a contact or number, they will no longer be able to call you, send you messages or see what you post.
7. Mute or unfollow negativityDon’t engage in online arguments or negative discussions. Social media platforms allow users to mute or unfollow users who contribute to a toxic environment.
8. Enable the ‘Two-Step Verification’ feature on WhatsAppThis adds an extra layer of security to your accounts. By enabling the ‘Two-Step Verification’ feature, WhatsApp will require a six-digit PIN when resetting and verifying your WhatsApp account.
9. Avoid getting added to groups without consentNow, one can customise who can add you to a group chat on WhatsApp. Users can go to Settings >> Privacy >> Groups, and set Everyone, My Contacts or Nobody. If you choose everyone, anyone can add you to a group. When my contacts option is set, it means that someone from your contacts can only add you to a group. But when nobody is enabled, then every time someone wants to add you to a group, you will receive a request.

Happy International Women’s Day!