Pitfalls of apps which pinpoint your location
Previously in the column I have highlighted personal security as a consideration all of us should be aware of, from our homes, cars, banking arrangements and telephones.
This is also true for young people in our community who often don’t appreciate the need or importance of personal security, in particular relating to their constant phone use.
In today’s society telephones are more than a means of communication, they are a rich single source of information providing a varied method of contact beyond traditional telephone calls.
As social media apps become ever more sophisticated and popular, especially with young people, I would like to take this opportunity to encourage those of you who are parents and guardians to be aware of the “location mapping” feature which is now a key feature in a number of popular social media apps.
When posting using an app with this feature enabled, your location is accurately pinpointed on the app’s virtual map, posing a potential risk.
I would encourage all parents and guardians to take some time to talk to their children and young people about the risks associated with revealing your location via social media apps.
Discuss their phone and app security settings and encourage them to check them on a regular basis. If they are meeting friends, encourage them to use private messaging or text messages to make the arrangements. It is also worth making them aware that “checking in” at a location and tagging friends in posts shares real time information.
While they may think only their friends can see this information, it can be inadvertently shared and expose youngsters to people who wish them harm.
Being complacent can be risky and parents and carers should make a point of setting ground rules ensuring young people can enjoy using social media safely and responsibly.
Ensure accounts are set to private, encourage children not to post photos containing anything which identifies the area where they live, such as school uniforms/badges or road signs.
As usual with this column I am looking for your assistance in relation to the following crimes.
Just before midnight on July 17 the Road Chef motorway services was broken into, with cigarettes stolen.
The person responsible is described as having a slim build, wearing a balaclava, dark clothing, white t-shirt, zipped jacket, dark tracksuit style trousers black shoes and gloves. He was seen making off carrying the property in what looked similar to a pillow case.
If you were in the area at the time and saw anyone of this description please contact Constable Reay at Hamilton Police office.
Just before midnight on July 23 two males were seen attempting to steal a car in Davidson Gardens, Stonehouse.
Witnesses observed them in the vehicle apparently attempting to start it, before they made off.
If you have any information you feel should be reported or information on any of the crimes previously detailed please contact the police using 101, or via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Discuss phone and app security settings