In the digital age, managing your cybersecurity is very important. If you are someone who says they don’t like computers, or you find it hard to manage your online account security, then you simply must work on becoming more competent and confident with it, and/or find yourself a technical expert who can work with you to assist you with cybersecurity.
It is not enough to safely store your passwords, and if you are still using a ‘book’ to write your logins in, you must consider a safer and more effective alternative, particularly if you are a small business owner. You don’t have to do this on your own, ask a friend who is IT savvy or find yourself an IT specialist who can help you here and there.
Please read this basic cybersecurity blog to make a good start https://edgesmefinancial.com.au/cybersecurity-looking-after-your-logins/
To make sure your passwords/logins are as strong as possible you must:
- not use the same password or similar passwords across various accounts or platforms. This makes you susceptible to a hacker breaching one account and then breaching all.
- change your passwords well within every three to six months
- use virus protection on your devices that clear your browser of items that hackers can use. Hackers are now ‘sifting through cookies’ and other information on your browser and can learn login information
- make your passwords need to be at least 13 characters long, otherwise hackers may find it easy to crack them. Make sure you’re not using the same password for multiple websites. Avoid using personal information for passwords such as personal information like birthdays or addresses.
- Implement multi-factor authentication (see below)
Multi-factor authentication
Set up multi-factor authentication for important accounts, such as with financial institutions. Logging into a website with two-factor authentication requires you to enter a code sent by text or email, or authenticator app, in addition to a username and password.
Some accounts require multi-factor authentication with biometric factors for added security, such as a thumbprint or face scan. Using multi-factor authentication with long, complicated passwords can make an account more secure.
How do I manage all my logins?
Looking after your passwords might be a task that is still sitting on your to do list, but our passwords are the protectors of our online presence. You cannot afford to delay attending to this.
Individuals need many passwords in today’s world.
If you are running a business there is an ever increasing need for password management. Using a password manager. They do not prevent you having a password breach, but they certainly help minimise that risk.
If you have old or weak passwords or use them on multiple sites, a password manager can generate new ones. It’ll then keep track of them and sign you in to apps and websites — with you only having to remember one master password.
There are several password manager applications which are highly regarded:
Bitwarden : A user-friendly, open-source password manager that allows you to store, generate, and update passwords securely across multiple devices.
LastPass: Known for its robust features, LastPass provides a secure vault, password generator, and the convenience of syncing passwords across different platforms.
Dashlane: Dashlane combines top-notch security with a sleek interface. It offers features like dark web monitoring and a secure digital wallet in addition to password management.
1Password: This app not only creates and manages strong passwords but also offers the ability to securely store other sensitive information like credit card details and secure notes.
Google Password Manager: If you’re already immersed in the Google ecosystem, this tool seamlessly integrates with your Google account, providing a convenient and secure way to manage your passwords.
So don’t be a business owner struggling with your cybersecurity, exposing yourself to fraud or identity theft. Embrace the habit of regular password changes and bear in mind multi factor authentication will become the norm.
Your online security is in your hands – make it a priority!
Image attribution: Image by macrovector on Freepik