Social networks have become an integrated part of our lives. Facebook is not just a simple communication channel anymore but an important source of daily news, information about brands, as well as a selling platform. Thanks to mobile apps, we access it everywhere and anytime we want. As active consumers we should take even better care of our security while using the service.

How to set up a secure login for your Facebook account

1. Set up double verification, or so called Login Approvals to achieve your desired security level during the login process. Every time you  login into your account, Facebook will send you a newly generated code via SMS to enter to finish login process. Login approval will allow you to better control who can access your account.  Detailed instructions how to set it up can be found here.

2. Select so-called  trusted contacts. This should be three or four people, who can be contacted by Facebook, in case access to your account is blocked. The selected person will be given an access code, which should be passed to you, so you can restore your account credentials. Therefore choose trusted contacts carefully, so you can easily get in touch in case it’s needed. In order to choose trusted contacts go to Settings -> Security and select friends. If you want to learn more about this setting go here.

3. Set up Login alerts, to be notified in case Facebook spots a suspicious login attempt to your account; for example from an unknown computer or smartphone. A login alert will be delivered to you as a text message, email, or Facebook notification. You decide which format is the most suitable for you. In case you suspect that someone tried to break into your account, Facebook will help you to reset your password and set up a new one. Just as other safety settings you will find login alerts in the Security section. Detailed instructions can be found here.

4. Protect yourself from Phishing and Spam. Cybercrooks try to take over your personal data and login, by creating URLs which look just like Facebook. Please bear in mind that the social network will never send you an email, requesting your credentials or any other personal or financial data. In case you receive such an email, redirecting you to a webpage deceptively resembling Facebook, never ever submit your data. Learn more about Phishing on Facebook here.

On the other hand, if your friends spam you with suspicious messages, or simply bother you with invitations to the “farm games”, it’s possible that they became victims of a malicious app. It can post on their behalf without their knowledge and spread malware further. You can report it to the social network by clicking on the arrow symbol in the right top corner next to the message. Read more in Spams on Facebook section.

5. Last but not least, secure your Facebook mobile app. If, like other millions of Facebook users, you access the social network on mobile, you should consider installing an application that will block the access to Facebook. This is handy in case your mobile is lost or for simply preventing your friends from joking around and posting something on your behalf, while you leave your smartphone unattended.

Avast Mobile Security protects your Facebook and other social networks or banking apps with a security code for free. Download it for free from Google Store

Stay tuned for more social media security and privacy tips!

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