If you have a device, or use the Internet at all, you are probably very familiar with password security.

Almost everything you do online requires a password and user name and if you are like most people, you have to keep track of so many of these on any given day that you probably have given in to the temptation of using the same one for multiple sites and devices.

It can be frustrating, inconvenient and annoying but password security is one of the main ways to keep your data and digital life secure. It can keep hackers out of your accounts and devices and keep your data, your money and your privacy secure.

Here are some things you can do to protect your password security.

  1. Don’t tell anyone your passwords. This might seem like an obvious thing, but you never know who is going to do what with your sensitive information. Protect your logins as much as you’d protect your bank account information – they are that important. As a general rule, if anyone asks for your login information, chances are it is a scam.
  2. Always use different user names and passwords for each account. This can become very cumbersome and frustrating, especially since it seems like everything needs a unique name and password. But it’s critical for keeping your accounts safe – because if someone hacks into one account, the others are better protected!
  3. Multi-factor authentication is another great way to keep your passwords and IDs safe. Yes, we know it can slow you down, but MFA adds another layer of valuable security.
  4. Complex passwords, meaning longer than 14-16 characters, and including letters, other characters and symbols, are the best. It can get harder to remember different ones, but it’s worth the effort. Try to avoid using things like your street name, your spouse or kids’ names, pet names or number sequences like 1, 2, 3. Those are easy to guess or hack.
  5. Use password managers. A password manager tool is a great way to keep track of all your logins. The best ones store your information securely and back it up, meaning you can tap it in on your device – and you don’t have to remember multiple logins or reset them constantly.

AccuNet Inc.

If you have questions about setting up better password security, we can help. Contact us today!