Facebook connects over 2.9 billion people worldwide, including 37% of Americans over 65. For many seniors, social media has become a lifeline for staying connected with family, especially grandchildren who live far away. Yet horror stories about privacy breaches and scams make many seniors hesitant to participate. 👥

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The truth is, social media can be wonderfully safe when you understand how to protect yourself. The benefits are real: seniors who actively use social media report lower rates of depression and stronger family connections. They stay informed about family events, see daily updates from loved ones, and maintain friendships that might otherwise fade.

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Most social media problems stem from oversharing personal information or falling for scams that are easily avoidable once you know what to look for. Learning the basics of privacy settings and recognizing common red flags lets you enjoy the benefits while avoiding the risks.

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1. Review privacy settings and only share basic information publicly
2. Only accept friend requests from people you actually know
3. Be thoughtful about photos you post (avoid showing addresses or expensive items)
4. Avoid sharing details about being away from home or travel plans
5. When done, focus on positive interactions and sharing pleasant memories

Gil can walk you through privacy settings on your specific social media accounts and show you how to spot the latest scams targeting seniors on these platforms. 😊

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