Today, for millions of people, having a Facebook page has almost become de rigueur. Just in the United States alone, more than 33 million people of all ages visit this new cyber destination and cultural phenomenon, almost daily, and spend hours socializing and networking with friends, business associates, acquaintances and also total strangers. Because Facebook also has the ability to give criminals, including sexual predators, unfettered access to the website’s uninitiated users, it is very important to know how to use some of the privacy tools that the site offers.

Facebook began as a socializing tool for college students however, today, it’s used by just about everybody, all over the world. Users face potential danger especially when posting personal information, including photos and videos. So it is important to use precaution(s) when using this social media juggernaut.

Here are 6 safety tips to help keep your profile private and reduce chances of falling victim to predators lurking on Facebook:

1. Limit visibility of your Contact Information (phone number, email address, IM screen name and physical address) by going to “Privacy Settings” under “Account.”
2. Limit visibility of status updates, especially if posting potentially offensive statuses.
3. Block any users you find threatening so that they cannot search for your profile. In essence, it appears that you no longer exist on Facebook to that person. You can do this under “Privacy Settings” or click the “Report/Block This Person” button on the bottom left of their profile.
4. Be careful when posting your whereabouts. Make sure only your friends can see your location. For example, “John Doe: is having lunch at Olive Garden on 1^st and Wetmore St.” or “John Doe: is on vacation in Hawaii…won’t be home for 2 weeks!” This provides ample opportunities for predators to target your home during your absence.
5. Make use of your “Limited Profile,” where you can selectively block information from an entire group by placing people you don’t know well into a “Limited Profile” group.
6. Hide pictures or wall posts if you are concerned about too much of your personal life being exposed. Individual photo albums can be blocked from certain people or groups.

To update these settings go to the drop-down menu at the top right that says “Account” and click on “Privacy Settings.” Here you will find options that allow you to a) let everyone see all your information, b) only friends of friends, c) friends only, d) recommended, or e) custom. In order to hide information or pictures only from select groups, choose the custom option.

Facebook, along with all other social media sites, is an invaluable personal and business networking tool, but it is imperative that people use caution when using them. Remember, information posted on the Internet can easily be tracked and while the Net provides many opportunities and benefits to individuals, it can also lead to tragedy. Always be aware of unidentified users, especially when sharing personal information with them, because they pose potential threats. However, by following these 6 simple steps, you’ll be on your way to enjoying a safer Facebook experience.