And why you should use a password manager.
We all have numerous accounts, each one requiring a password. Best practice is to create unique, complex passwords for each account, which means using it only once. The recipe for a secure password is actually pretty simple:
- Use each password only once
- Select 16 characters or more
- Pick a random mix of letters, numbers, and symbols
Here’s an example: iL!k3Str0ngP@ssW0rds!
Did you know it would take a hacker software more than a century to crack a 16-character password?
Easy enough right? But who can remember long, complex passwords? Especially if you need one for every account, which might equate to dozens of passwords. That’s where a password manager can help.
A password manager is software program that generates, stores, and auto fills complex passwords. A high-quality password manager is the safest, most secure way to store your sensitive information, and you only have to remember one master password which is encrypted for optimal security. This means that even if your password manager is hacked, cybercriminals cannot access your passwords.
A quick search online will reveal a lot of services, many with free options. Give one a try and up your cybersecurity game. Make it hard for cybercriminals and fraudsters to hack your account.
Small actions can make a BIG impact. Together we will secure your data, protect your money, and empower our credit union.
Follow along all month for more information about each of the Core 4 action items. For more information about our online resources on cybersecurity, fraud, and more, visit Fraud Prevention - Greylock Federal Credit Union. Visit National Cybersecurity Alliance here.