Password Safety
In today’s digital age, safeguarding your online accounts, especially in online shopping and financial accounts, is crucial. Let’s break down the basics of password safety and security– discussing how often to update your password, examples of strong and weak passwords, and why it matters.
How Often to Change Your Password?
Think of changing your password like giving your lock a little shuffle. Aim to do it every 3 to 6 months. Regular updates throw off potential troublemakers, making sure your online accounts stay under your control. By following good password practices, you not only protect your personal and financial data but also contribute to a safer online environment for everyone.
Good passwords are like a sturdy lock on your front door. Use a mix of upper and lower-case letters, numbers, and symbols to create a unique combination. For instance, “P@ssw0rd!” is a strong choice, while common picks like “123456” and “password” are weak and easily cracked.
Why Should You Care About Password Safety?
Your password is your online gatekeeper. If it falls into the wrong hands, your personal and financial information becomes vulnerable. By keeping your password strong, you’re building a strong defense against unauthorized access and potential fraud.
Here’s what might happen if you’re not careful with your online password.
- Unauthorized access: Weak passwords make it easier for others to guess and gain unauthorized access to your accounts.
- Identity theft: Cybercriminals can use compromised accounts to steal personal information, leading to identity theft.
- Financial loss: Weak passwords increase the risk of unauthorized transactions and financial loss, especially for banking and credit union accounts.
- Email hijacking: Weak passwords for email accounts can lead to unauthorized access, enabling attackers to send malicious emails or reset other account passwords.
- Account lockout: In some cases, repeated unauthorized attempts to access your account may result in it being temporarily or permanently locked. (Think of people hacking into your social media accounts)
Changing your password regularly and crafting a strong one is a simple yet effective way to keep your online accounts secure. It’s like upgrading the locks on your doors – a small effort that goes a long way in protecting your digital assets.
To stay up to date with the latest security tips and tricks follow our security blog.
