Working in computer repair in Harrisonburg, VA, we cannot stress enough how important it is to have secure passwords. Passwords keep you safe while you use the internet, but hackers are getting savvier about it every single day. Some of the most secure systems in the world have been breached and hackers have gotten access to millions of people’s personal and financial data. But, even as we hear more and more reports of hacking, tons of people still to use weak passwords. As Carly Okyle’s reports in Entrepreneur,
“nearly 3 out of 4 consumers use duplicate passwords, many of which have not been changed in five years or more. Unsurprisingly, about 40 percent of those surveyed say they had “a security incident” in the past year, meaning they had an account hacked, password stolen, or were given notice that their personal information had been compromised.”
Not sure if you have a strong password? Follow the following tips to make sure your passwords keep you and your family as safe as possible.
1. Don’t Use Names of Family or Pets
Even with a number at the end of them, stay away from your name, your spouse or kids names, or pet names. If someone is trying to figure out your password, those are some of the first thing’s they’re going to guess.
2. Stay Away From Your Birthday or Social Security Numbers
Next, after your name, people are going to start guessing your birthday. When you choose your birthday, you’re making it very obvious. Try to use numbers that are personal to you but don’t have anything to do with birth. In addition, stay away from your social security number. If someone gets your password, you don’t want to make it easy for them to steal your identity as well.
3. Vary Your Passwords
More importantly than having a strong, unguessable password is not having the same exact one for everything. You never use the same password for multiple logins, especially for your email account. You may think your email isn’t super important, but, once someone gets into your email they can go over to your bank app, click “forgot password”, and get into your finances instantly. This is regular hacker practice that you absolutely don’t want to fall prey to.
Want More Tips?
Of course, these are just a few smart password tips to get you started. If you need help with security, dealing with a virus, or need any other computer repair service, don’t hesitate to seek the help of Roz Hi-Tech. Whether you’re having issues with your Macbook Air or your Windows PC, we are proud to support your system. From providing factory restoration and the installation of the OS you need to replacing damaged fans and the LCD screens, to selling replacement chargers and keyboards— we can keep your computer going. No matter the system, our dedicated staff is ready to find solutions to all your problems. Contact us today to get started.