Why You Shouldn’t Share Your Contact Details on Public Social Media Platforms – And how to stay safe online
First article in the YEI series – Wise and Wired: Staying Safe on Social Media
More and more over-55s are joining Facebook to connect with friends and family – it’s great fun! But just like home safety, online safety matters too. YEI chats about why protecting your personal details is so important (and easy!).
More and more South Africans over the age of 55 are using Facebook and other social media platforms to stay in touch with family and friends, especially when they live far away. It’s a wonderful way to see photos of your grandchildren, hear good news, or connect with old friends.
But just like locking your front door at night, it’s important to keep your personal information safe online. One of the most common mistakes is putting your cell phone number or email address in a public place on social media — like in a Facebook comment or post.
Let’s explain why this is risky — and what you can do instead.
Scammers Are Watching
These days, criminals don’t just steal from houses — they also “steal” information online. This is called a scam. Scammers can trick you into giving away your money or personal details.
If you put your cell number or email in a public comment, anyone can see it, even people you don’t know. Scammers often search Facebook for phone numbers and email addresses and then send fake messages that look real. They may pretend to be your bank, your grandchild, or even You’ve Earned It.
Tip: If someone on Facebook asks you for your number or email, don’t post it in a comment. Instead, click on their name and send it in a private message. That way, only they can see it.
You Might Get Spam and Fake Messages
Once your contact details are public, you may start getting a lot of unwanted messages — called spam. These messages might try to sell you something, or worse, try to get you to click on a dangerous link.
Some of these fake messages look like they come from your bank or a real company, but they are actually from scammers trying to trick you.
Tip: If you get a message or email from someone you don’t know, don’t reply and don’t click on any links. Ask your son, daughter, or a friend to check it for you first.
Your Privacy Is Important
Think of your personal details like your house keys — you wouldn’t hand them to a stranger. The same goes for your phone number and email. If you share them in public, anyone can use them.
Even if your Facebook account is private, comments on public posts or pages (like competitions or group chats) can still be seen by strangers.
Tip: Ask someone you trust to show you how to check your Facebook privacy settings. You can choose who sees what you post. If you don’t know how, don’t worry — most people your age feel the same way, and it’s okay to ask for help.
So, What Should You Do Instead?
It’s completely fine to want someone to get in touch with you — but the safest way is to use a private message.
If you’re not sure how to send a private message, ask someone you trust to show you. It’s just like writing a letter in an envelope instead of shouting your details out in the street.
Tip: On Facebook, click the person’s name or picture. Then click the “Message” button. You can write to them directly, and only they will see it.
A Final Thought
Using the internet is like learning a new skill. It might feel confusing at first, but with small steps and a little help, you can enjoy it safely.
You’ve Earned It is here to help you enjoy this stage of life — and that includes staying safe while using technology.
If you ever feel unsure, remember:
• Don’t post your contact details in public
• Ask for help from someone you trust
• It’s never too late to learn — and you’re not alone
Stay safe, stay curious, and enjoy everything the online world has to offer — the smart way.
Article by The YEI Team
