Data Breach: Protecting Your Digital Assets

Last week, Facebook experienced the largest data breach in its history, exposing the data of it’s 50 million users.

While tech experts and pundits debate legal action and regulatory policy, those of us who use the platform daily to connect us to our friends and family (and increasingly, other third-party apps and websites via the platform’s Single Sign On feature,) are left wondering what we can do to protect our information within the social media juggernaut.

Some argue that privacy and security online are just illusions. Here, however, are the most basic steps you can take to secure your Facebook account, as well as any digital assets connected to it via third party apps and websites.

Do a Device Audit

From Facebook’s Security and Login page, you can easily view on what devices your Facebook account is open. Log out of anything you don’t recognize (or for good measure, log out of everything but the device you’re on.)

Change your Password

It’s a no-brainer. Change your password, now. Then, change it regularly. Do so from the same Security and Login page. Use something complex and long, with upper and lower-case numbers and special characters. Do not use a password you use elsewhere online. If you have trouble remembering your passwords, coming up with a naming convention can help you remember. Just make sure the system is unique to you.

Turn on Two-Factor Authentication

Two-factor authentication is exactly what it sounds like: a second- step security feature that, in addition to your password, helps protect your account. When you set up two-factor authentication, you’ll be asked to enter a special login code or confirm your login attempt each time someone tries accessing Facebook from a computer or mobile device Facebook doesn’t already recognize as yours. You can also get alerts when someone other than you tries logging in.

Revoke Third Party Access

Since 2009, when Facebook introduced its Single Sign On feature millions of us have been clicking “Log me in with Facebook” all over the web. While most of these connections are helpful (fewer passwords to remember!) and harmless, you’ll want to carefully examine any connections with apps or website that store your personal or financial information, such as subscriptions services (Spotify, etc.) To disconnect 3rd party access through Facebook, visit the Apps and Websites page, and individually disconnect each service. A regular check up of this portion of your Facebook account is a good idea to schedule.

Plan Ahead

Protecting your digital assets may be your responsibility in life, but what will happen to them upon your death? In a related blog post, learn what options you have for managing your Facebook footprint after you’re gone, and how comprehensive estate planning takes your digital life and assets into account.

When you’re ready for our help in crafting a complete estate plan, built for the modern world and the unique needs of your family, give us a call to schedule your Family Wealth Planning Session. We’re here to help you plan for your family’s future so that you can live for today.

Meghan Beaulieu

Meghan is Marketing and Community Outreach Coordinator (and de facto “techie,”) at The Parents Estate Planning Law Firm, PC – a law firm for families in the Acton, Massachusetts area. Meghan helps parents protect the people they love the most.