One of the simplest ways to secure your information online is to at least use a strong password. Especially as privacy and data breaches were one of the biggest issues of 2019. From news of leaks to hackings, data security has become more important as the year ends.
Here are some tips on how to create strong passwords we found online:
1. Avoid using personal information
Don’t use pet names or numbers from your address, social security, phone number, or birthday. This information is often online as you use it to fill out the most basic forms. Therefore, you should assume that hackers may have this information about you in their hands.
2. Avoid using real words
Tools that are used to crack passwords are pretty efficient at processing words from the dictionary, plus alphanumerical combinations of letters and numbers. So instead of using a name or common term, use special characters like “&” and “$.”
While it’s a great start to switch out letters for special characters that closely correspond, like swapping an “S” for a “$,” it’s the most obvious variant of those dictionary phrases. The more creative you get, the less chance there is that a password-cracking tool will help guess your combination.
3. The longer, the better
Aim for a minimum of 10 characters. The longer the password, the harder it may be to crack it.
4. Don’t write down your passwords!
Use a password manager to keep encrypted copies of all of your usernames and passwords on your browser. Google Chrome does this on its own if you select the option, but there are also paid third-party options, too.
5. Change your password regularly
Passwords for your online financial accounts should be changed every month or two. Computer login passwords should be changed at least once a quarter. Using the same password for longer periods could put your information at risk of data breaches.
Passwords are made public after a data breach, and the username/password combinations are sold on the dark web or darknet. The longer your password sits there and festers, the better the chance it’ll be exposed in a breach.
6. Use complicated phrases
Think of something that you’d easily remember, like a common phrase, and make it more difficult to guess. Like, turn “I love you” into “i10v3y0u.”
Also Read:
Here’s Why YouTube Is Suspending Popular Crypto Accounts
Trouble in Paradise As Popular Dating Site Suffers Security Breach
Facebook Set To Launch Its Own Operating System
7. Don’t recycle passwords.
If a hacker cracks your login information for one website, all of your accounts will be compromised. Use a random password generator, if you’re struggling to come up with something, use a password generator.
8. Beware of using public devices or networks.
Never enter your password on someone else’s computer if you can.
When using public Wi-Fi, avoid sites that require you to log in, especially if it’s for a financial service.
If you must use a public device or network, be sure to use a virtual private network, or VPN, to secure your connection.
9. Use two-factor authentication
This is a method for verifying your identity by using more than one type of verification. Some kinds of two-factor authentication, or 2FA, include:
a. Something you know: such as a PIN number, password, or pattern.
b. A possession of yours: such as an ATM or credit card, mobile phone or a security token.
c. Something you are: a biometric form of authentication, such as your fingerprint, your voice, or your face.
Make sure to follow Plat4om on Twitter @Plat4omLive, on Instagram @Plat4om, on LinkedIn at Plat4om, and on Facebook at Plat4om. You can also email us info@techtalkwithtdafrica.com. Also, don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel HERE.