Friday, March 29, 2024

5 Password Tips To Avoid Getting Hacked

In this day and age, it’s paramount we protect our personal information. There are hackers around every corner, just waiting to access your passwords to obtain critical information on the internet. But there are things you can do to ensure that you won’t get hacked – or at the very least, make it incredibly hard for anyone trying to steal your information. Reader’s Digest rounded up some tips to help you choose a password that will (hopefully) deter hackers.

You use the same password for everything

Baroness Von Sketch Wifi GIF by IFC - Find & Share on GIPHY

It’s bad enough that there are still people who use the password “password” for all of their accounts. You laugh, but you’re just as guilty if you use the same password to access all of your private information. If someone can hack into your Instagram account, they shouldn’t also be able to withdrawal money from your bank account.

RELATED: Creepy Crackdown On Netflix Password Sharing May Be Coming Soon

Your security question is obvious

https://giphy.com/gifs/respect-jude-law-question-kFJ7NdGw4A4o0

You know the drill. What’s your mother’s maiden name? What was the name of the street you grew up on? What was the name of your first pet? Security questions are pretty basic across the board, which is why the cyber security pros at McAfee suggests using random questions. While most crooks can find out your mother’s maiden name or the street your grew up on with a quick internet search, it’s doubtful they could discover who gave you your first kiss or the first MTV video you remember watching.

Your password is obvious

https://giphy.com/gifs/mods-password-admins-12Oy8aAs0CbTgY

If you have a collection of shoes, make sure your password isn’t ShoeGal (kudos if you got this “Sex and the City” reference). This also goes for the lazy man’s penchant for choosing consecutive numbers, like  “00000” or “12345”. Reader’s Digest suggests incorporating “opposite” words, like your least favorite color or the site of your least favorite vacation.

RELATED: This iPhone Feature Deletes Your Data After Several Failed Password Attempts

You don’t include enough obstacles

Password GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY

One trick is to use the space bar when creating your password. A lot of sites don’t let you do this, but when you stumble upon one that does, take advantage of it! Most people who try to attempt your password will likely not incorporate a space.

It’s not long enough

Passcode GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY

Security experts agree that your password should be at least a dozen characters in length, if possible. And while that may create a hassle every time you log into your account, it’s worth it if it means thwarting thieves. Having your identity (or money) stolen is way worse than having to type 12 characters.

MUST READ

Maybe The New James Bond Should Update With Marijuana

There is a new face, but maybe the new James Bond should update with marijuana. After all, it isn't the 50s anymore.

MORE BY THIS AUTHOR

What Is Painsomnia And Can Cannabis Help

What is painsomnia and can cannabis help?  For a portion of people with sleep issues, it is a worst case scenario.

Don't Miss Your Weekly Dose of The Fresh Toast.

Stay informed with exclusive news briefs delivered directly to your inbox every Friday.

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe anytime.