Sharing too much about yourself can sometimes lead to trouble, from annoying spam to serious problems like identity theft.
This article will talk about 18 things you should think twice about sharing. Whether you’re chatting with friends, posting on social media, or talking to someone you just met, it’s good to know what to keep to yourself.
Social Security Number
Your Social Security Number is a unique ID for government and tax purposes. Never share it unless absolutely needed. Criminals can use it to steal your identity or open fake accounts in your name. Keep it secret and safe.
Banking Information
This includes your account numbers, PINs, and online banking passwords. Don’t tell anyone these details. If others get this info, they could steal your money or make purchases using your accounts. Only use this information on secure bank websites.
Home Address
Be careful about who knows where you live. Sharing your address publicly could let strangers find your home, putting you at risk of theft or unwanted visitors. Only give your address to trusted people or when needed for important mail.
Phone Number
Your phone number is a direct way for people to contact you. Be careful who you give it to. If scammers or annoying salespeople get your number, they might call you relentlessly. It’s best to share it only with friends, family, and trusted contacts.
Birth Date and Place
Your full birth date and place of birth are often used to verify your identity. If bad people get this information, they might use it to pretend to be you. They could try to access your accounts or apply for credit cards.
Mother’s Maiden Name
Many companies use your mother’s maiden name as a security question. If someone knows this, they might be able to access your accounts. Keep this information private. Choose a different security question if you can.
Passwords
Never share your passwords with anyone. Use different passwords for each account. If someone gets your password, they could log into your accounts and cause trouble. Keep your passwords secret and hard to guess.
Credit Card Numbers
Your credit card number, expiration date, and security code should be kept secret. Only enter this information on trusted websites when buying something. If others get these details, they could use your card without permission.
Medical Information
Your health information is very personal. It includes details about illnesses, medications, and treatments. This info should only be shared with your doctors and trusted family members. Keep it private to protect your privacy and avoid discrimination.
Income and Salary
How much money you make is your private business. Sharing this info might make others jealous or treat you differently. It could also attract scammers or thieves. Only discuss your income with close family or when required for loans or taxes.
Personal Photos and Videos
Be careful about sharing personal photos or videos online. Once they’re on the internet, it’s hard to remove them. People might use your pictures in ways you don’t like. Only share photos you’re comfortable with everyone seeing.
Travel Plans
Posting about upcoming trips can tell burglars when your home will be empty. It’s best to share vacation photos after you return. This way, you don’t advertise when your house is unoccupied. Tell only trusted people about your travel plans.
Children’s Information
If you have kids, be careful about sharing their details online. This includes names, ages, schools, and photos. Some bad people might use this info to harm children. Protect your kids by keeping their information private.
Driver’s License Number
Your driver’s license number is another form of ID. Criminals could use it for identity theft. Only share it when legally required, like at the bank or when stopped by police. Don’t give it out casually or to strangers.
Political Views
Your political opinions are personal. Sharing them might lead to arguments or even discrimination. It’s often best to keep these views private, especially at work or in public. Only discuss politics with people you trust and in appropriate settings.
Relationship Status
Your love life is your own business. Sharing too much about your relationships can invite unwanted opinions or gossip, and it might also upset your partner. Keep the details of your romantic life private unless you choose to share them with close friends.
Exact Location
Be careful about apps or posts that share your exact location. This could let strangers know where you are at any time. It might put you in danger or make it easy for others to stalk you. Turn off location sharing when not needed.
Personal Struggles
Everyone has problems, but it’s often best to keep personal struggles private. These might include family issues, mental health concerns, or financial troubles. Share these only with trusted friends, family, or professionals who can help.
10 Unconventional Ways to Stay Focused in a Distracting World
10 Unconventional Ways to Stay Focused in a Distracting World
13 Myths About Cats That You’ve Got All Wrong
13 Myths About Cats That You’ve Got All Wrong
14 Terrifying Sea Creatures That Can Defeat the Blue Whale
