How do you update your password security?

1 Choose strong and unique passwords

The first step to update your password security is to choose strong and unique passwords for each of your online accounts. A strong password is one that is long, complex, and unpredictable, using a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. A unique password is one that you do not use for any other account or service, so that if one of them is hacked, the others are not affected. You can use a password generator tool or a passphrase method to create strong and unique passwords.

2 Use a password manager

The second step to update your password security is to use a password manager to store and manage your passwords. A password manager is a software application or browser extension that securely encrypts and saves your passwords in a vault, so that you only need to remember one master password to access them. A password manager also helps you to autofill your login credentials, generate new passwords, and alert you to any breaches or weak passwords. You can choose from various password managers, such as LastPass, Dashlane, or Bitwarden, depending on your preferences and needs.

3 Enable multi-factor authentication

The third step to update your password security is to enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) for your online accounts. MFA is a security feature that requires you to provide more than one piece of evidence to verify your identity when you log in, such as a code sent to your phone, an email link, or a biometric scan. MFA adds an extra layer of protection to your password, making it harder for hackers to access your account even if they have your password. You can enable MFA for many popular services, such as Google, Facebook, or Amazon, by checking their security settings.

4 Change your passwords regularly

The fourth step to update your password security is to change your passwords regularly. Changing your passwords every few months or whenever you suspect a breach can help you to prevent unauthorized access and limit the damage of any potential compromise. You can use your password manager to remind you to change your passwords or to do it automatically for some accounts. You should also avoid using the same password for more than one account, as this can expose you to more risk.

5 Avoid phishing and malware

The fifth step to update your password security is to avoid phishing and malware attacks that can steal your passwords or infect your devices. Phishing is a type of scam that uses fake emails, websites, or messages to trick you into revealing your personal or financial information or clicking on malicious links or attachments. Malware is a type of software that can harm your device or data, such as viruses, ransomware, or spyware. You can avoid phishing and malware by being careful about what you open, download, or click on, using a reputable antivirus program, and updating your device and browser regularly.

6 Educate yourself and others

The sixth and final step to update your password security is to educate yourself and others about the importance and best practices of password security. You can learn more about password security by reading blogs, articles, or guides from reputable sources, such as the National Cyber Security Centre, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, or the Electronic Frontier Foundation. You can also share your knowledge and tips with your friends, family, or colleagues, and encourage them to update their password security as well.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?