Social Media Privacy Checker
Disability investigators frequently look at public profiles for posts to use against a claim. Lock down your accounts using the simple steps below to ensure your personal life stays private.
Why this matters
Even simple posts—like photos at a family barbecue, carrying groceries, or walking—can be taken out of context by Social Security investigators. Making your accounts private is the easiest way to prevent this.
facebook Settings Checklist
Follow these steps on your phone or computer to update your settings.
1. Set Future Timeline Posts to "Friends Only"
By default, Facebook sets new posts to "Public" or "Friends of Friends". Investigators can easily browse your timeline without adding you as a friend to find photos, travel updates, or check-ins.
Restricts your posts so only approved friends can see them.
2. Limit Who Can See Past Posts
Even if your new posts are private, years of old photos and status updates might still be set to public. Investigators can scroll back to find old photos to use as evidence of physical activity.
Instantly changes all your past public posts to "Friends Only".
3. Keep Your Profile Off Google Search
If an investigator searches your name on Google, your public Facebook profile page will show up, exposing your profile photo, cover image, and friends list.
Blocks Google and other search engines from indexing and displaying your profile link.
4. Turn on Profile & Tagging Review
Friends or family might post photos of you at gatherings or events and tag your profile. Investigators will see these photos on your timeline even if you did not upload them.
Prevents tagged photos from appearing on your profile page until you manually review and approve them.
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TikTok
Surveillance Tactics
Fake Friend Requests
Investigators sometimes send friend or follow requests using fake profiles to view your private posts. Only accept requests from people you actually know.
Location Check-ins
Checking in at stores, restaurants, or events makes your physical location and activity public.
Profile Archiving
Investigators can save screenshots of public photos or posts to use as evidence at your hearing.
Want to check these offline?
Copy the text manual so you can check your settings on another device or offline.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a CDI unit?
CDI units investigate disability fraud. As part of their review, they often search the internet and social media to see if a claimant's online activity matches their reported physical limitations.
2. Can they see my private posts if my account is locked?
No, investigators cannot access accounts set to private. However, if a friend posts a public photo of you or tags you, that post might still be visible. That is why turning on tag reviews is important.
3. Does check-in and location tagging matter?
Yes. Posting check-ins or location tags shows when and where you are traveling or active, which investigators can track.
4. Should I delete my social media accounts?
No, you don't need to delete your accounts. Simply setting them to private and restricting search engine results is enough to secure your privacy.