In today’s digital age, protecting your online accounts is more crucial than ever. One of the best defenses against cyber threats is creating a robust password. Ensure your password is tough to crack by making it a minimum of 12 characters. If you’re struggling to think of one, consider using a passphrase—a combination of words that are easy for you to remember but difficult for others to guess. Avoid common pitfalls like using lyrics, common phrases, quotes, sequential numbers, social security numbers, phone numbers, or birthdays. Instead, enhance your password’s strength by incorporating a mix of upper and lowercase letters, special characters, and numbers.
Take advantage of the tools at your disposal, such as your browser’s password creation and storage capabilities or other reliable password services. Additionally, amp up your account security by enabling Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) whenever possible. This extra layer of protection can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access, making it more challenging for hackers to compromise your accounts.
When setting up security questions, choose ones that only you would know, steering clear of easily guessable information. Avoid responding to memes or social media challenges that prompt you to reveal personal details that are often used in security questions. Furthermore, be cautious about passcodes linked to public records, as information easily accessible online can compromise the security of your accounts. By following these simple steps, you can strengthen your online defenses and navigate the digital landscape with greater confidence and security.
(Source: Federal Trade Commission. “Creating Strong Passwords and Other Ways to Protect Your Accounts.” Federal Trade Commission, https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/creating-strong-passwords-and-other-ways-protect-your-accounts)
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