Police Scotland has tightened security on Chief Constable Phil Gormley's internet profile after his personal Facebook page was found to be open to the public.
The profile included personal details of Mr Gormley's loved ones, friends and holiday plans, the Scottish Sun reported.
His wife, daughter, her boyfriend, nephews and nieces were identifiable from Mr Gormley's posts, the newspaper said.
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Chief Superintendent Paul Main said: "Mr Gormley's social media profile has been reviewed and assessed and appropriate steps taken to ensure the privacy and safety of his family and friends."
Police Scotland's advice on staying safe on social media states: "Social networking can be used for harmful or criminal purposes. Take some sensible precautions.
"Since users access these sites from their own homes, they can sometimes forget that the internet is really a public space.
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"This means they can be tempted to share more information than is sensible or safe, or to act in ways they may not do normally.
"Pick a user name that doesn't include your real name or hint at your date of birth or where you live.
"Make your profile private.
"Limit the amount of personal information you make available online."
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