Nary a month goes by, it seems, without the news headlines screaming about another massive data breach of a major corporation. While any data breach is a very serious incident, there are still some things the average consumer can do to protect themselves. One of the easiest and most effective habits to engage in is providing a strong password. Here are some tips from experts in It Services Omaha NE on how this can be done.
• Do not ever create or use a password that contains names, either of yourself or loved ones, or even pets. Consecutive numbers should also be avoided, as should the last four digits of credit cards or social security numbers, and birth dates.
• Avoid using identical passwords to multiple accounts, such as email accounts. While it is usually justified by people because it is “just their email,” it is actually a short leap from gaining access to one’s email and then having password reminders or resets from bank or credit card accounts sent to the hacked email account.
• Try to come up with something that only you would remember. However, remember that any single word or name found in the dictionary will easily be cracked by what computer experts of It Services Omaha NE deem a “brute force” attack.
• Substitute symbols in place of letters or numbers that have a similar appearance. Suggestions include @ in place of an or a 3 in place of an E.
• Verify the strength of the proposed password with an online password-checker provided by a reputable company such as a major software developer, computer manufacturer, or IT company such Geeks!
• Many experts recommend using a secure password “wallet” to store all that passwords that one uses. This will relieve the individual of having to remember dozens of different passwords and make it much more likely that that individual will create wildly differing passwords for maximum protection.
For more information on password security and the importance of developing good computer safety habits, visit us website. They can offer professional and reliable advice on a wide range of computer security topics.
