Mashable's write up on "Don't Get Robbed"

There is a write up on Facebook's status update being used as a tool for robbers to pick candidates for "real-time" robberies posted on Mashable.  Based on some folk's status update about leaving town and becoming possible targets for burglary.  Fortunately, such an occurrence is spreading some much needed awareness about Facebook security settings.  You can read the article on Mashable's site.

There is some talk about whether Facebook's Places is being used to target burglaries - but those are false as reported by several tech blogs.  I'm not familiar with the Facebook API, so I wonder how the status update information is gathered?  A Google search or sites which hook into the Facebook API to get user status updates?

With proper security settings you can protect your status updates.  If you think your status updates are only available to your friends, still it's a good idea to double check.  The Facebook security settings have been stable for a long while now, however, you never know when a new update sneaks in which slips under your radar.

For folks you are concerned and want to take action for securing their status updates to a limited audience, please read on for simple instructions on how to check and set proper settings.

1. Login to your Facebook account.
2. From the "Account" drop down menu on the upper right corner select "Privacy Settings."
3. Notice the "My status, photos, and posts" setting.  Check the dot, what is it set to? Everyone, Friends of Friends,Friends Only or Other?
4. If it's not set to "Friends Only" go ahead and reset it by clicking on "Customize Settings."
5. The Custom settings page appears with options for settings for "Posts by me", please make sure it's set to Friends only. While you are here also set your "Places I check in to" appropriately. 
6. Once you are done selecting these options, DON'T look for a save settings button - the settings are saved as you are making the changes. 

Happy Facebook - ing!