# The role of social networks in the selection of kidnapping and extortion targets When discussing this serious topic, I would like to provide some cognitive information about criminal methods. The purpose is to help people raise their safety awareness, not to encourage any criminal behavior. Kidnappers may identify potential targets through the following social media clues： -**Exposure of wealth information**: Showing off luxury goods, luxury homes, vacation photos, etc. To show the state of the economy -**Daily itinerary exposure**: Regularly share location check-in, activity arrangements, commuter routes, etc. to form a predictable pattern -**Family structure information**: Photos of family members, relationship information, sensitive information such as children's schools, etc. -**Collection of personal information**: Build a complete portrait through public work information, contact information, social circle, etc. ## Suggestions for protective measures -Adjust privacy settings to restrict strangers from viewing personal information -Carefully share real-time location and itinerary -Avoid displaying obvious wealth signs -Regularly check your social media footprint and identity exposure Raising social media security awareness is an important part of preventing such crimes.