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Protect credit information, access to finances, and identities by creating a defense system through your password. But, this first line of defense is a challenge for most people. More than half the people online do not use secure passwords. A determined hacker can get through any password as fast as a burglar can get through a locked door. So, ensure you protect your online passwords while streaming The Pirate Bay, gaming, shopping, and doing bank transfers, among other things. Below are 8 ways to beef up your online security.
- Pick a strong password
As shocking as it seems, people still use the abcde and 12345 passwords, even when they rank among the weakest and easy to guess passwords. Therefore, when asked to update or create a password for a site. Avoid choosing easy to guess passwords. Ensure the password you select is at least 12 characters or more. Plus, use numbers, letters, and other symbols too.
- Opt for biometrics if it is an option
Today, it is easy to log on with fingerprints instead of a password on your laptops, tablets, and smartphones. If you get this option, take it. It is secure and prevents cases of forgetting your password. Most companies today are embracing the movement. Thus, enabling touch and voice recognition services for their customers. Opt for this as it is the most secure form of password technology.
- Avoid sharing your password
Not sharing your password seems like common sense, but many people still freely offer out their passwords to others. According to studies, at least 32 percent of millennials end up sharing almost most of their passwords. Plus, one-third of the people already have shared their passwords. One is of their bank account. Do not be any of these people. Protect your password by not sharing.
- Always update software
Almost every day, there is a notification about a program that needs an update. In most instances, it seems easy to put it off. However, in doing this, you put yourself at risk. Plus, when that update comes up, most people end up ignoring it. Therefore, every time there is a security update in the feature update, do it. In doing so, you secure your online password.
- Use multifactor authenticator
Most online services today offer an additional step. This is between entering your password and accessing your account. Such online services include online bank accounts and Gmail, among others revolving around sensitive information. To do this, they send a code to the phone number they know. In this way, it takes longer to gain entry to the site for a hacker and thus a great way to save your online password.
- Use different passwords for different accounts
It seems easy to use the same password for all the online accounts until all your accounts are compromised. It increases your vulnerability, and it is best not to use the same one in everything. Hackers will use this password once they access one account to access other vital ones. Plus, you open yourself to scrutiny to people trying to have other sites. So, have different passwords and have a password manager if you worry you will forget.
- Consider using a password manager
Anyone worrying about forgetting their passwords and usernames should consider using a password manager to keep track of them. The password manager will keep your passwords safe and fill in your details when you need them automatically. Plus, they synchronize your details in various devices, meaning you are free to access that site from any device, not the one you registered the site from.
- Do not fall for phishing
The best way to approach your email is with skepticism. Any notes you receive from people you do not know, delete them, especially if they have attachments. If it seems suspicious and you know the sender, do not open it. Always look closely at the sender’s email address if you get a note from a preferred airline or your bank to ensure the URL matches the institution’s. Also, copy-paste any embedded links to a browser window instead of clicking on them to view them better.
