How To Secure Your Snapchat Account

July 13, 2021

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If you want to learn how to secure your Snapchat account, read this post.

Snapchat is one of the leading social platforms with 265 million daily active users. Consequently, Snapchat’s user base is an attractive target for hackers. In 2014, 4.6 million accounts were hacked, and their contact information was published online. The platform works hard to keep users’ accounts safe. That said, you've got a role to play in protecting your account. Cybercriminals are relentlessly coming up with new ways to compromise accounts.

December 2020, The Tompkins County Sheriff’s Office warned users about the possible hacking of Snapchat accounts. Hackers attempted to persuade victims to provide personal information or access accounts remotely via hacking. An article by Business Insider in late 2020 says that hackers are breaking into Snapchat accounts and holding nude photos for ransom.

Recent Statistics by Statista reveal that there are 6.65 million Snapchat users in Nigeria as of February 2021. Nigerian Snapchat user base constitutes a huge target. It goes without saying that you’re a potential target, your country of residence notwithstanding. You’ve got the responsibility to protect your account from invaders due to security risks on Snapchat.

Table of Contents

How To Secure Your Snapchat Account

1. Use A Strong Password

Using a strong password is the first step to secure your Snapchat account. What are the features of a strong password? A hack-proof password has a combination of letters (upper case and lower case), special signs, and numbers. This approach makes your password complex and difficult to crack.

What’s the standard length (number of characters) of a strong password? Well, there is no single answer to this. According to experts, a strong password should be at least eight characters long.

Your password shouldn't be easy to guess. This is why using a common word is not encouraged. Don't use your name, phone number, or date of birth. Using common words or numbers would make it easy for adversaries to lay hold of your password with little research.

Conversely, you should check out our list of the best password managers.

2. Beware Of Social Engineering

Scammers go the extra mile to compromise users' accounts. Don't let them fool you. They work in different ways. It's common to receive a phone call from someone claiming to work for Snapchat demanding your details. Listen, it would be rare (if not impossible) for Snapchat to give you a phone call. Even when they do, your details won't be required. Snapchat has your account information already.

You might receive a message telling you that your account is hacked, and you should forward your details to make things right. This is a popular way hackers deceive their target. It's called social engineering. Don't divulge your details for any reason. If you have challenges, you can always contact Snapchat via a support platform.

3. Turn On Two-Factor Authentication

Two-factor authentication adds another security layer. It makes unauthorized login difficult. With this security framework, you'll always receive a one-time password in your email or mobile phone each time you log into your account.

No one can access your account without the OTP. Go to settings, scroll down, and click on login verification. There, you'll be able to turn on the two-factor authentication.

4. Share With Friends Only

By default, your Snapchat account is set to “friends-only.” So, only your friends can view what you post. You have the option to set it to “everyone.” But this means that anyone with a Snapchat account can view your posts and message you. Do you care about your privacy? If yes, then make sure you share your snaps with people you know.

5. Post Content You Will Always Be Proud Of

Snaps disappear after some time. But listen, users can still save and screenshot images. Snapchat notification is supposed to let you know when a screenshot of your snap is taken.

However, you don't have to rely on the app's settings. There are third-party applications that save snaps. Users have their ways around Snapchat settings. So, to not do what you would regret, post what you will be proud of if it goes viral.

Covering some parts of photos with emojis is not an effective way to hide anything. Some applications can remove any graphic you put on your photos. If there is anything to hide in a picture, don't post it. Posting questionable content might draw the attention of hackers. So, be mindful of what you put on your wall.

6. Be Careful With The Use Of Third-Party Applications

Snapchat terms of use discourage the use of third-party apps. Third-party programs are helpful, especially when you use them to simplify tasks. But you should worry about the security of your files when using such applications.

Some of these applications are not regulated. As a result, developers of such products don't take security seriously. In 2014, a third-party app, Snapsaved was hacked. It caused the leakage of about 200,000 snaps.

Do you see why you should be careful with third-party apps? It takes us back to the previous point. Don't post anything you don't want many people to see. Snaps don't disappear as you think. Snapsaved is an example of applications that save snaps. Be wise!

7. Don't Share Password With Friends

It's not ethical to share your password with friends. They may use it against you. A friend today can become the worst enemy tomorrow. If you have made this mistake in the past, change your password. Password and other login details belong to you alone. Please don't share them with friends and family.

8. Use a Password Manager

With a password manager, you can generate hack-proof passwords. Today, password managers have gone beyond generating and keeping passwords. They come with advanced features that make online activities very easy and secure. Buying a password manager is the way to go if you are struggling with maintaining standard “password hygiene.”

9. Comply with Security Measures Provided By Snapchat

Most times, it’s little disobedience that makes accounts vulnerable. As malicious hackers innovate, Snapchat will consistently improve its security measures to ward off attacks. Comply with any security measure brought up by Snapchat.

Final Word

Hackers will never be tired of trying. However, at your end, you've got work to do. Protect your account by imbibing the best practices outlined above. No matter how strong Snapchat security is, it’s nothing if you fail to observe these little things. Do your part to secure your Snapchat account!

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How To Secure Your Snapchat Account