Have you ever logged into one of your online shopping accounts and thought you knew the password?

You could always click on the “Forgot Password” option to reset it; however, before you go resetting it to the same password, consider creating a better one that is secure and that you’ll remember.

Here are some tips before you use one of your old passwords:

Avoid common words and character combinations

Stay away from common words such as “password” and predictable character combinations such as “qwerty.” The goal is to create a password that no one will know or guess. You should also avoid using your name, nickname, birthday, street name or anything that can be guessed from viewing social media or a conversation with a stranger.

Create longer passwords

Although eight characters is a good place to start, consider creating longer ones. Use a passphrase made up of random words. Make sure they are memorable and uncrackable. You should also try to incorporate numbers, symbols, and both uppercase and lowercase letters.

Don’t recycle

Reusing passwords across different accounts is not secure. If someone were to uncover your recycled password, they may be able to use it on other accounts.

Don’t write down or save your passwords

Writing down your password is not a great idea. What happens if someone were to break into your home? They have access to all your personal and financial information if they uncover your list of passwords. The same goes for saving your passwords on your computer. If a hacker gains access to your computer or online accounts, they also gain access to the password file.

Use two-factor authentication

By setting up two-factor authentication, you can keep thieves from stealing your passwords. It is a safeguard that requires you to enter secondary information before you can fully log in. This may be a one-time code.

For instance, Google allows you to add a recovery email or phone number just in case unusual activity in your account is detected. This can help find out if someone else is using your account or take back your account. You can also get into your account if you forget your password.

You should try to avoid text message verification codes. Though it’s convenient, hackers can still steal your phone number and intercept the code.

The information in this article was obtained from various sources not associated with Adirondack Bank. While we believe it to be reliable and accurate, we do not warrant the accuracy or reliability of the information. Adirondack Bank is not responsible for, and does not endorse or approve, either implicitly or explicitly, the information provided or the content of any third-party sites that might be hyperlinked from this page. The information is not intended to replace manuals, instructions or information provided by a manufacturer or the advice of a qualified professional, or to affect coverage under any applicable insurance policy. These suggestions are not a complete list of every loss control measure. Adirondack Bank makes no guarantees of results from use of this information.

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