Creating and Maintaining a Safe Account
Your passwords are like the keys to your life, so it’s important to keep them strong and secure—especially with so many security breaches happening these days.
Follow these simple steps to create super-strong passwords that will help keep scammers out of your accounts.
Step 1: How to create a strong password
Not only should every password be different for each website, but it’s important to make them strong. Here’s how to do that:
- Make it long: Aim for at least 12 characters—longer is better.
- Get creative: Avoid using easily guessed words like names or places.
- Mix it up: Use a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols, and alternate between uppercase and lowercase letters.
Step 2: Update Your Passwords
It’s a great habit to update your passwords, especially those you think might be weaker than others. For sites that don’t work with password managers, you’ll need to create separate passwords for those. Remember, it’s best to use a unique password for each site to stay safe.
Step 3: Use Two-Factor Authentication
Whenever possible, enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for an extra layer of security. This way, even if someone guesses your password, they’ll still need a second form of identification to access your account.
Step 4: Be Careful with Security Questions
Security questions are often an easy way for scammers to get into your accounts. Instead of using real answers to the questions (like your mother’s maiden name or your pet’s name), make up your own answers—something that only you will remember, but others can’t easily guess.
Step 5: Avoid Storing Passwords in Your Browser or Phone
While it may seem convenient to save your passwords in your browser or phone, it’s not the safest option. If your device gets lost or stolen, those passwords can be easily accessed.
Creating strong, unique passwords and following basic security practices is essential to protecting your online accounts. Regularly updating passwords, using two-factor authentication, and being cautious with security questions can further enhance your security. By taking these simple steps, you can safeguard your personal information and reduce the risk of falling victim to cyber threats.