While live streaming is a great way to connect with people and make friends, there are some major security risks. Anything you do while live streaming can be seen by anyone watching. This means that if you’re streaming from your home, there is a possibility that viewers will see what’s inside your home and who is there with you. In comparison, viewers will, of course, see what you’re doing and where you are in real-time if you’re at a party or at a public event.

As technology progresses and live streaming continues to grow in popularity,  live streaming can and will be used to exploit people. For example, someone could stream footage of another in a vulnerable position, such as undressing or using the bathroom, and then use that footage for malicious purposes. This article is about safety and acknowledging that certain measures should be implemented when utilizing live stream technology. 

To prevent any problems in the future, take heed to the below points to remember to stay safe online while live streaming. 

1. Use A VPN

A VPN, or virtual private network, is a service that encrypts your internet traffic and routes it through an intermediary server in your chosen location. This can be helpful for several reasons: 

  • It can protect your privacy by hiding your internet activity from your ISP (internet service provider) and others; 
  • It can allow you to access websites and content that are blocked in your location;
  • It can be used to spoof your location so that you can watch region-locked content.

When streaming live events, such as sporting matches or concerts, using a VPN is a good idea for two reasons. First, it will help protect you from being tracked or monitored by third parties. Second, it will allow you to access the event if it is blocked in your location. If you’re looking for a VPN, you should go with NordVPN. As more and more people use this, finding a great deal has been getting easier and cheaper. Currently, the NordVPN student discount is also making it cheaper for students.

2. Install the Latest Security Patches On Your Device

As a live streamer, it is important that you keep your device up to date with the latest security patches. By doing so, you are protecting yourself against possible cyber attacks. Hackers often target live streamers because they know they can access sensitive information such as usernames and passwords. Install the latest security patches on your device to stay safe while streaming.

3. Use Strong Passwords

Live streaming can be a fun and engaging way to connect with friends and family, but it’s important to remember to protect yourself. One of the simplest ways to do this is by using a strong password. This means choosing a password that is difficult for others to guess and that is long enough with various character types, making for a difficult password to be easily cracked. 

It may go without saying, but make sure you never use the same password for multiple accounts. And if you ever suspect that your account has been compromised, change your password immediately. Finally, don’t forget to install a good antivirus program on your computer and keep it up-to-date.

4. Enable Two Factor Authentication

Two-factor authentication has become more often used on various platforms and is a security feature that requires two forms of identification from the user to log in. The first is a username and password, and the second is a code sent to the user’s phone. This code can be generated by an app such as Google Authenticator or Authy or sent via text message. Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to your account and makes it harder for someone to hack into your account.

Most major websites offer two-factor authentication, including Facebook, Google, Twitter, and LinkedIn. You can enable two-factor authentication on these websites by going to your account settings and looking for the two-factor authentication setting. Enabling two-factor authentication will add an inconvenient extra step to logging in, but it’s well worth the added security.

5. Make Sure Your Internet Connection Is Secure

When streaming live video, it’s important to make sure your internet connection is secure. If you’re not careful, someone could hack into your stream and see or hear whatever you’re broadcasting. Here are a few tips for protecting yourself while live streaming:

  • Use a strong password. Make sure your password is something that nobody else would be able to guess.
  • Use a VPN. A VPN will help protect your connection and keep your data safe. If you can’t afford NordVPN, you can still get a $1 VPN that protects you while live streaming.
  • Keep your software up to date. Ensure you have the latest security updates installed on your devices.
  • Be aware of who you’re broadcasting to. When streaming live video, it’s important to know who can see and hear what you’re broadcasting.

6. Don’t Share Personal Information

Keep your personal information private. Do not share your full name, address, location, age, school, or other personal details with viewers. You never know who is watching, so it’s better to be safe than sorry. Additionally, you should never share passwords or financial information when streaming.

7. Beware Of Suspicious People 

When live streaming, always beware of suspicious people. These people may try to take advantage of you in some way, such as by asking for money or personal information. They may also try to convince you to do something you’re uncomfortable with or request you to click on a link that may compromise your personal information. Be sure to stay alert and keep your personal information private. If someone makes you uncomfortable, end the stream and report it to authorities if necessary.

8. Notice Your Surroundings When Live Streaming

Keep an eye on your surroundings. Make sure nothing in the background could put you at risk and is noticeable to identify your home, location, or whereabouts. 

Now that you know 8 key factors to consider while live streaming, we hope you implement them. 

If you want to create a professional and secure live video for your audience, connect with a team with the resources and experience to create exactly what you want. From video production services, motion graphics services, or event video production services, we love storytelling, we love video, and we can talk about it all day long. Start your project and stay inspired to continue your company vision and story.