Corporate executives – and anyone else in the public eye – should pay close attention to security settings that allow the public to view individuals to whom they’re connected on social media and other sites. Allowing these lists to be public can pose significant risks.

The ability to see who someone is connected to on platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook and Venmo can provide valuable insights into an individual’s personal and professional life. This information can be exploited for various malicious purposes, including targeted phishing attacks, identity theft, blackmail, and even physical harm.

Reporters can also access the information to write stories about people with whom newsworthy figures may have relationships. One example is a recent Wired story about the Venmo connections of U.S. Senator J.D. Vance, the GOP candidate for Vice President.

For business executives, exposing their network can compromise sensitive company information. It could reveal potential business partners, investors, or employees, making them targets for cyberattacks or industrial espionage. Moreover, a compromised network can damage a company’s reputation and erode trust among stakeholders.

To mitigate these risks, it is imperative for public figures to prioritize robust social media security. This includes regularly reviewing and adjusting privacy settings on all platforms, limiting the visibility of friend lists, and being cautious about accepting connection requests. Additionally, using strong, unique passwords and enabling two-factor authentication are essential steps to protect personal information.

By taking proactive measures to safeguard their digital footprint, individuals in the public eye can significantly reduce the risk of becoming victims of cybercrime and protect both their personal and professional interests.