Our Top 10 Cybersecurity Tips for Influencers and Content Creators

We know building a following, income stream or full on business online is hard, and we respect just how much graft goes into being a content creator, influencer or similar.

When you started you may not have envisioned becoming a full on photographer / PR / marketeer / agent / negotiator and plenty more roles all rolled into one. ‘Cybersecurity Expert’ was probably way down the list, but we hope that taking care of your platform, community and business resilience as a creator is a priority for you, and we can help make it as easy as possible.

In 2022 (and the figure has likely risen since), an influencer fell victim of an attack every 10 minutes and 50,000 Instagram creators were hacked in total. Beyond hacking, you may be vulnerable to impersonation, data theft and ransomware which can cause major financial, business continuity and reputational harm.

Though it’s tempting to concentrate on the less heavy sides of your business, we think that small tweaks can massively boost your protection from such threats, and it’s not as expensive, complicated, or boring, as it might first seem.

Here are 10 essential cybersecurity tips to help keep you and your content safe:

1. Use Strong, Unique Passwords

Your accounts are the keys to your platform. Protect them with strong, unique passwords and access controls for each.

• Use a password manager to generate and store complex passwords

• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on all your accounts

• Avoid using easily guessable information like birthdays or pet names

2. Be Wary of Phishing Attempts

Cybercriminals often target those with big platforms with sophisticated phishing tactics to trick you into revealing sensitive information.

• Double-check email addresses and URLs before clicking links

• Be suspicious of unexpected messages, even if they appear to be from known contacts

• Never share login credentials or personal information via email

3. Secure Your Wi-Fi Network

Your home network is the foundation of your digital security.

• Use WPA3 encryption for your Wi-Fi

• Change default router passwords and keep firmware updated (the embedded software on your devices)

• Consider using a VPN for an extra layer of privacy, especially when using public wifi

4. Keep Software Updated

Regular updates patch security vulnerabilities that hackers can exploit.

• Enable automatic updates on all devices and applications

• Regularly check for and install updates on content creation tools

• Be cautious about using outdated software that no longer receives security updates

5. Use Secure Cloud Storage

Protect your content and personal files with secure cloud storage solutions.

• Choose reputable cloud services with strong encryption

• Enable two-factor authentication for cloud accounts

• Regularly backup your content to prevent loss from ransomware attacks

6. Be Mindful of What You Share

Though we imagine this must be a constant battle, it’s important to be aware that oversharing can provide cybercriminals with information to target you.

• Avoid sharing personal details that could be used to answer security questions

• Be cautious about revealing your location in real-time

• Consider the long-term implications before posting sensitive content

7. Protect Your Social Media Accounts

Your social media presence is your brand - keep it secure.

• Regularly review and update privacy settings

• Be cautious about third-party apps requesting access to your accounts

• Respond quickly should you think your account has been hacked

8. Secure Your Devices

Your smartphones, tablets, and computers are gateways to your digital world.

• Use biometric locks (fingerprint, face ID) in addition to strong passcodes

• Install and regularly update reputable antivirus software

• Enable remote tracking and wiping features in case of loss or theft

9. Be Cautious with Public Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi networks can be hunting grounds for cybercriminals.

• As previously touched on, use a VPN when connecting to public networks

• Consider using your mobile data instead of public Wi-Fi for important tasks

• Avoid pubic charging ports or plugs - they have become tools for cybercriminal’s to conduct attacks

10. Educate Your Team

The ‘human factor’ plays a huge role in cybersecurity. If you work with a team, their security practices affect your brand too.

• Implement simple and clear security policies for team members

• Provide regular cybersecurity training and updates

• Use secure collaboration tools with strong access controls
  

As an influencer or content creator, your online presence may be your livelihood so think of it as you do your home. Lock the doors with strong access controls, have some insurance with a backup system and avoid posting it’s address online with a little privacy protection.

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