What You Should (and Shouldn’t) Post on Facebook

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Facebook is a wonderful way for Kiwi seniors to keep up with grandchildren, reconnect with old friends and share everyday joys. Still, every Facebook post can be seen by more people than you might expect, so a little thought before you hit share goes a long way. Here is some general guidance to help you enjoy Facebook with confidence.

What is worth sharing

The best Facebook post is often a simple one. Photos of your garden, a favourite recipe, a beach walk or news of a local community event are all lovely to share. Birthday wishes, kind comments on family photos and memories from years gone by also bring people together.

What to keep private

Think carefully before adding personal details to any Facebook post. Your home address, phone number, date of birth and bank information should never appear on your profile or in a comment. Photos showing your house number or car registration plate can give away too much. It is also wise to avoid announcing holiday plans, as this tells strangers your home may be empty. Share your photos after you return instead.

Respect other people’s privacy

Before posting a photo of grandchildren or friends, ask permission first. Not everyone wants their picture online, and parents often have good reasons for keeping their children’s images private.

Watch out for scams and false stories

Not everything on Facebook is true. Be wary of any Facebook post that urges you to share quickly, promises a prize or asks for money. If a message from a friend seems out of character, phone them to check if it is really them. Pausing before you click is a simple habit that protects you.

Think before you react

Heated opinions and unkind comments can linger online for years. If something upsets you, step away for a while before replying. A good rule is to only post what you would happily say face to face.

Check your privacy settings

Facebook lets you choose who sees each Facebook post, such as friends only or a select group. You can also limit who is able to find your profile in a search. Take a few minutes to review these settings, or ask a family member to sit down and help you.

With a little care, your next Facebook post can be safe, friendly and fun for everyone who sees it.