Staying safe on social media: How to avoid online thieves and scams

Social media platforms can be excellent ways to stay in touch and share photos and videos. They can also be a pathway for thieves.

It pays to be careful when using Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Twitter, TikTok, Nextdoor and other social networks for various reasons, including protecting your reputation — and even keeping your job. But caution is also essential if you want to prevent wrongdoers from stealing your identity, money and property.

Here are tips on staying safer on social media, including what not to share.

Read the full article in the Finances FYI section of The Seattle Times, sponsored by 1st Security Bank.