According to the Pew Research Center, 65% of adults use social media and among people aged 18 to 29, the percentage skyrockets to more than 90% of the population. For a family with kids, a staggering amount of information finds its way onto potentially public forums. As usage increases, so too does the risk of identity-related crimes. A good fraudster or scam artist can use all kinds of information to profit at your expense: Checking-in: Some sites allow other individuals to check you in to geographic locations. Many people don’t mind this option but remember that when you tell people where you are, you are also telling them where you aren't – at home. Criminals can use this information to gain access to your home. Consider disabling this feature. Posting personal information: Do not post information like your birthdate, physical address or other details online that help identity thieves. If your connections post information about you, make sure the combined information is not more than you would be comfortable with strangers knowing. Friend requests from unknown individuals: The internet makes it easy for people to misrepresent their identities and motives. Consider limiting the people who are allowed to contact you on social media sites. If you interact with people you do not know, be cautious about how much information you reveal or about agreeing to meet them in person. Apps: Many apps have access to your friends list, posts and other information. Consider editing the app privacy settings, either within the social media site or through each app individually, to remove these permissions. Remove any apps that are no longer in use. Public searches: For those who are extremely security conscious, some sites grant you the ability to remove your profile from being found when someone looks for you on a search engine. If you want to remain hidden, look for this option and activate it.