Facebook product manager, Melissa Luu-Van, has announced the addition of the Security Checkup Tool. The tool has been made available on the social networking site, to users all over the world. The Security Checkup feature is only usable in the desktop version of the site. A mobile version of the tool will be coming soon.
The Security Checkup Tool appears on top of the newsfeed, above the status message box. Once the user clicks on "Get Started," he will be presented with three steps to better his account's security. Ms Luu-Van demonstrated the steps in the official Facebook post on the tool.
First, the feature lets the user opt to log out of devices he has not used for over a month.The step then shows a list of those devices and programs, which the user can select. After selecting the devices, Facebook will automatically log out of them.
The next step is called login alerts. The feature notifies users regarding attempts to log in on their accounts. Notifications will be sent to the user if Facebook detects a login attempt from devices other than the user's own or ones that the user frequently use to access the account.
Third, the feature gives users tips on how to make a strong password. The tips include not using the Facebook account's password in any other online membership, making the password hard to guess andnot sharing it with anyone else.
The Security Checkup Tool can also be accessed using the settings. Upon cicking on settings, look for security tab. Apart from the Security Checkup, other tools can be seen and choose from to better secure the Facebook account.
In April, the Iowa police reported a method for hackers to prey on users of the social networking site. To fish out information, fake accounts are made to disguise hackers as friends of the targeted users. Through Messenger, malicious links can also be sent. Thereafter, accounts can be rendered unusuable. Usually, links ask users to login to their Facebook accounts. Hackers who pose as friends intend to get the target's mobile details. Who TV has reported on the incidents.
Facebook has over 1.44 billion active users every month. The social platform has also been the medium of choice for hackers and posers who want to exploit other people. Scams have also made rounds on the site. Security is one matter Facebook and all other social networking sites need to take seriously. Users should similarly take measures to ensure the safety of their online accounts.
