Protect Your Accounts Like a Pro!
We all have accounts we rely on every day. Banking, email, shopping, social media, streaming services, and more. The problem? Cybercriminals want access to them, too. The good news is that protecting your accounts doesn't require a computer science degree. A few smart habits can go a long way toward keeping your information safe.
Start with Strong Passwords
Your password is often the first line of defense. Use a unique password for every account and make it long enough to be difficult to guess. Password managers can help create and store strong passwords so you don't have to remember them all yourself. Better yet, if a website offers passkeys, consider using them. They provide stronger protection and eliminate the need to remember a password altogether.
Turn On Multi-Factor Authentication
Think of multi-factor authentication, or MFA, as a backup lock on your door. Even if someone gets your password, they still need a second verification step to access your account. Whenever available, turn on MFA for important accounts. One important reminder: Never share MFA codes with anyone.
Don't Share Sensitive Information
Legitimate companies will never ask for your password, PIN, or MFA code through email, text message, or over the phone. If someone asks for that information, it's a major red flag.
Keep an Eye on Your Accounts
Checking your account balance is great. Checking your transactions is even better. Review your accounts regularly and report anything unfamiliar as soon as possible. The earlier suspicious activity is caught, the easier it is to stop.
Set Up Alerts
Many financial institutions and online services offer account alerts. These alerts can notify you about:
- Logins from new devices
- Password changes
- Large transactions
- Low balances
- Profile updates
Unexpected alerts can be an early warning sign that something isn't right.
Think Before You Click
Many compromised accounts aren't "hacked" in the way movies make it seem. Instead, scammers trick people into giving away their information through phishing emails, texts, or phone calls. Before clicking a link, take a moment to verify where it's taking you. When possible, type the website address directly into your browser instead.
Be Careful What You Share
Information shared online can be valuable to scammers. Birthdays, pet names, family information, and other personal details can help criminals guess passwords or make scams appear more convincing. Share thoughtfully and limit sensitive information whenever possible.
Keep Your Devices Updated
Software updates aren't just about new features. They often include important security fixes that protect your devices from newly discovered threats. Turning on automatic updates can help keep your accounts and devices safer.
The Bottom Line
Protecting your accounts doesn't have to be complicated! Strong passwords, MFA, account alerts, software updates, and a healthy dose of skepticism can help keep your information secure and your accounts where they belong...in your hands.