People across the globe are experiencing a relentless barrage of attacks impacting their personal privacy and security. If you have never received a notice in the mail stating that your personal information has been compromised, consider yourself one of the lucky few. Protecting against data breaches, identity theft, and even physical threats against you or your family should be a top priority for everyone. While no one can completely escape these threats, this web site puts forth steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of them happening to you. Sorted by category, the content below is routinely updated so check back often. It's a dangerous world out there, follow these steps and don't become the next victim!

 

Safeguard Your Accounts

 

Use Passphrases Instead of Passwords

A passphrase is a longer alternative to a password, typically composed of a sentence or a string of random words. While passphrases often contain simple words, their extended length enhances security compared to traditional passwords, all while being easier to remember.

 

Tips for Creating a Strong Passphrase:

  • Ensure it's at least 15 characters long

  • Incorporate symbols and numbers

  • Use random words for unpredictability

  • Make it memorable yet hard to guess

 

For example, a fan of The Big Bang Theory might choose: RockPaperScissorsLizardSpock!73. Similarly, a Taylor Swift enthusiast could use: 13$RedMeanDelicateFearless.

 

By following these guidelines, you can create a secure and easy-to-recall passphrase that strengthens your online protection.

 

Do Not Re-use Passwords

Reusing the same password across multiple accounts is a serious security risk. If one account is compromised, all linked accounts become vulnerable. Cybercriminals frequently exploit this weakness to gain unauthorized access.

 

To enhance security, use a unique password for each account. If managing multiple passwords feels overwhelming, at the very least, create distinct passwords for critical account categories, such as email, banking, and social media. This way, even if one password is exposed, your most sensitive accounts remain protected.

 

Do Not Save Passwords in a Web Browser

Saving passwords in a web browser poses a security risk, as anyone with physical access to your device could easily retrieve them. A password manager offers a safer alternative (detailed below) while providing the same convenience. Click here for step-by-step instructions on removing saved passwords from your browser and preventing future storage.

 

Keep Login Credentials in a Password Manager

Password managers allow you to easily store and use complex passwords. The process starts by creating a single, master password. The manager remembers all the other passwords you use. Bitwarden is generally regarded as the best password manager currently available. A great add-on feature with Bitwarden is Emergency Access. The service requires a premium account (currently $10/year) but adds peace of mind knowing that a loved one or friend will be able to access your passwords if needed.

 

Use Multi-factor Authentication

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) means you need something in addition to a password to access an account. This greatly reduces the chance of an unauthorized individual gaining access to one of your accounts. If you have accounts that offer multi-factor authentication, you should enable it. Here is a comprehensive directory of accounts that offer MFA you should consider.

 

Delete Unused Accounts

Deleting accounts that you no longer use will greatly reduce your online footprint. These unused accounts mostly likely contain a mix of your personal data, identity details, and credit card numbers. Don’t leave these accounts available for attackers to find if you no longer need them.