Hackers don't usually sit at computers trying to guess passwords, they use "robot scripts" that can go through tens of thousands of guesses in a day... it's easier than you think for them to guess your password.
Please keep safe online and remember the following tips!
- It's much easier and less costly to secure your logins now than if you get hacked - the cost can be high - so do your best in advance to avoid the issues.
- Consider using a "master password" software that will help you generate strong passwords, but also help you use them. We recommend https://lastpass.com/
- Always use a hard to guess and unique password - don't use something easy to guess, and don't re-use the same password on multiple sites.
- Ensure you use a mixture of upper and lower case letters, numbers and characters;
- Consider updating / changing your password at least once a year.
- NEVER share passwords or "reuse" passwords across sites - if one gets hacked you can be vulnerable on all of the others
- Don't share passwords with other people, unless it's essential - they should have their own account!
- When configuring your email, use the SSL option for enhanced security
- Don't send passwords across email (email is not always safe!)
- Do keep your password somewhere safe and not easily accessible (e.g. https://lastpass.com/ )
- Ensure to close webmail sessions / or logout when done online on any website
- Be careful in internet cafes or public places as your login info can be intercepted
- Where possible - try to use Two Factor Authentication (TFA) see article here
- Consider having a "throw away" email address e.g. "[email protected]" to use when you sign up for non-important web services. This way, you protect your real email address from receiving heaps of spam.