Navigating the world of passwords

Did you miss celebrating? World Password Day was last Thursday.  It is always "celebrated" the first Thursday in May. :-)

Passwords....ugh!  We (I)  grumble and procrastinate when receiving an alert that a password needs to be changed.  As frustrating and time-consuming as it may be,  though, we shouldn't ignore suggestions to change a password.  Maintaining strong passwords is a responsibility you/I have if we choose to use the internet. If you need a refresher about how to create a strong password, you might take a look at a post I wrote last year.

A reminder:  NEVER start the process to change a password by clinking on a link in an email; always go directly to the account website to make a change to your password.

My 3 recommendations to you this year for World Password Day:
1) Continue to create strong passwords using 14-16 characters and follow my suggestions from last year.  Remember, though, that usernames and passwords will never be secure enough.

2)  If given the opportunity, ALWAYS use two-factor (TFA) or multi-factor (MFA) authentication.  Yes, it requires an extra step (like acknowledging a text sent to your phone or watch and then entering that code) but it really adds a layer of security to your accounts.  A very thorough explanation and how-to article on TFA can be found here: https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/two-factor-authentication-who-has-it-and-how-to-set-it-up

3)  If given the choice, use biometrics (Face ID or fingerprint).  It is much more secure and easier to use!  The world of technology is certainly moving in this direction. 

On this Tech Tip Tuesday, please make or renew your commitment to start following the three tips above for doing your very best to stay safe online!