Reports of data breaches and compromised user accounts are a constant reminder of the importance of online security. Millions of login details circulate on the dark web, highlighting the vulnerability of our digital lives. Password length is irrelevant if the platforms we use don’t prioritize security. With the average person juggling dozens, even hundreds, of online accounts, from essential email and social media profiles to cherished gaming accounts, the potential for loss is significant. Imagine losing access to a game you’ve dedicated thousands of hours to—a devastating thought.
Hackers target more than just financial information; they also pursue accounts on digital platforms like Steam, eager to acquire valuable game libraries. Some even derive satisfaction from locking victims out of forums and personal accounts, causing disruption and distress. This guide provides actionable steps to safeguard your digital presence and minimize the risk of account compromise.
Creating Strong, Unique Passwords
The cornerstone of online security is using unique, strong passwords for every account. While less critical accounts might warrant less stringent measures, those holding sensitive information or sentimental value demand unique passwords. This is non-negotiable.
A strong password is not easily guessed. While some advocate for memorable strings of random words, others prefer complex combinations of characters and numbers. If manual entry is sometimes necessary, the word-based approach offers greater practicality. Strong passwords not only deter unauthorized access but also complicate the process for hackers attempting to crack hashed passwords in stolen databases.
Strong passwords
Utilizing a Password Manager
Managing a multitude of unique passwords can be challenging. Password managers offer a secure and convenient solution, surpassing the security of browser-saved passwords. They offer encrypted storage, handle encryption/decryption locally on your devices, generate strong passwords, auto-fill login details on legitimate websites, and synchronize across multiple devices. Some even offer storage for sensitive documents, bank details, and secure notes.
Password managers
Implementing Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) and Two-Step Verification
While strong passwords provide a solid defense, they are not foolproof. Keyloggers, phishing attacks, and quick password changes by scammers can bypass password protection. This is where 2FA and two-step verification come in. 2FA requires two different forms of authentication, typically something you know (password) and something you have (hardware key, mobile phone) or something you are (biometric authentication). Two-step verification involves entering a code sent to your phone or email after entering your password.
Time-based one-time passwords (TOTP) are a common solution, utilized by apps like Google Authenticator and password managers. Requiring access to the device generating the code strengthens security. For most users, using a password manager for both login credentials and TOTP codes offers a good balance of security and convenience. While dedicated TOTP apps are slightly more secure, reputable password managers minimize the risk. The streamlined workflow of automatically copying TOTP codes makes enabling 2FA on more accounts less cumbersome, significantly enhancing overall security.
Two-factor authentication
Monitoring for Compromised Accounts
Older, less frequently used accounts are particularly vulnerable to breaches. Even if a company forces password resets after a breach, you might miss the notification if you don’t log in regularly. Leaked credentials expose not only the compromised account but also your email address, increasing the risk of phishing and other attacks.
Websites like “Have I Been Pwned” allow you to check if your email address has been compromised in known data breaches. This enables you to proactively change passwords on affected accounts. Some password managers integrate with “Have I Been Pwned” to automatically flag potentially compromised accounts.
Have I Been Pwned
Handling Security Questions Securely
While less common now, security questions still exist. Never answer these honestly. Fictitious answers are impossible to guess or discover through online sleuthing. Store these fabricated answers securely in a password manager. If phone contact with the company is likely, choose pronounceable answers in the language of their customer service.
Assessing “Log in with…” Services
Logging in with Google, Apple, Facebook, or other platforms can simplify account management, especially if you avoid password managers. However, ensure the chosen platform has robust security measures in place. Understand the data shared with the third-party service during the initial login.
Log in with…
Using Unique Email Addresses for Logins
Since email addresses often serve as usernames and are frequently leaked in breaches, they represent a security risk. Services offering email aliases mitigate this risk. Some email providers offer this feature, but services like SimpleLogin, Apple’s iCloud Plus, and password managers like 1Password and Proton Pass provide more robust alias solutions.
Email aliases
Recovering Hijacked Accounts
Most major platforms have account recovery processes. Use a secure, uncompromised device to initiate recovery. The process varies in complexity depending on the extent of the hijacking. Once recovered, change your password, verify contact information, reset 2FA, and log out of all other sessions.
Embracing Passkeys
Passkeys, supported by Apple and Google, represent the future of online security. Utilizing asymmetric encryption, they require access to your device and its unlock mechanism (password or biometrics) for login, rendering stolen credentials useless.
This comprehensive approach to online security empowers you to protect your digital life from increasingly sophisticated threats.
