Keeping our information safe in today’s internet age is vital to avoiding cybercrime. But did you know that cybercrime causes monetary damages? According to the Department of State, cybercrime is responsible for about $4 billion in damages each year.
Having a safe password is one of the ways you can cut down on cybercrime. However, digital safety for elderly users is sometimes more complex than it needs to be. What sort of password security tips can help ensure senior online safety without being too tough?
If you’re curious about creating strong passwords, we’re here to help. Read on to learn more about ways you can ensure your internet safety.
Why Bother With Safety?
To start, why is it important to have a strong password? Many people prefer to use things like antivirus software to keep cybercrime at bay. What benefit does a strong password have that’s worth the hassle?
Think of it as getting a security system for your home. You’d still lock your doors whether you had a security system or not. Security software for your online accounts works the same way.
Weak passwords leave a significant vulnerability to your online presence. According to the Bank of North Dakota, roughly 81% of hacking-related breaches are done using stolen or weak passwords.
Keep Your Information Safe
One of the main reasons to keep your password strong is to make sure your information is stays safe and secure. Your online presence holds an incredible amount of information about you. Some things that might be stored online are:
- Your contact information, such as your phone or email
- Your physical address or previous addresses
- Other passwords and things that you’ve kept written down
- Your daily habits, the information you interact with, and more
- Your social security number or banking information
When these things are breached, the problem can become much more severe. Fixing these issues also isn’t a quick process, as some of them are virtually impossible to fix. A stolen social security number, for example, requires some serious paperwork.
Avoid Identity Theft
What are people stealing this information for? In many cases, it’s in an attempt to steal your identity.
With enough of someone’s information, someone can easily assume your identity. They can do this by taking out credit cards in your name or taking out loans.
When this occurs, the responsibility for such things falls on you. That means you’ll be stuck with the hit to your credit, as well as paying the debt.
Creating a Safe Password
Now that we better understand why we need strong passwords, how do we create a safe password? A safe password is one that you could consider “strong,” meaning that others can’t easily guess or compromise it.
While it can seem difficult, keeping a safe password is quite easy. Here are the best password security tips for independent seniors.
Change Your Passwords Frequently
One of the most common pieces of advice is to change your password frequently. Many companies even force their employees to change their passwords at regular intervals. But why?
The longer your password is in use, the more chances that someone has leaked, datamined, or compromised it. When that happens, your password will no longer be safe to use.
Many online programs also warn you if your password is compromised. That’s most common on internet browsers like Safari, Chrome, or Firefox. Some communities also offer programs that can help with cybersecurity in the included amenities.
In terms of frequency, many companies have their workers change on a 30, 60, or 90-day frequency. If this feels too often, change your password every six months. If it’s been compromised, you should change it immediately.
It’s also worth knowing that some people disagree with this technique. Some believe that being made to change your password every 30 days leads to simple, formulaic passwords. These are easy to guess, so keep them unique.
Don’t Use the Same Password Twice
How can you keep your password unique? The best way is never to use the same password multiple times.
Once you’ve used a password, don’t use it for other websites or accounts. If you have 5 accounts using the same password, then someone who accesses the first account can now access all 5.
Additionally, when you change your password, always change the “root word.” For example, you might use the password “Password1” and then change it to “Password2.”
When you do this, it’s much easier for others who know your old password to guess your new one. As a note, you should also never make your password “Password.”
Use Longer Passwords
Another great technique is to use longer passwords. The rationale is simple: guessing 20 characters is harder than guessing 6.
According to the CPA Journal, safe passwords are between 8 and 20 characters. Anything shorter is too simple, while anything longer is harder to remember.
These passwords should not match the username and should never be repeated. Making your password your username is easy for others to guess.
Include Special Characters
Finally, including special characters is a great way to make your password harder to compromise. Special characters are symbols. Things like the dollar sign ($), the tilde (~), and the pound sign (#) are commonly used.
Another common tactic is to put a word, an underscore, and something else. These make your password easier to remember.
That said, if it’s a “common tactic,” that means it may not be the safest thing for you to use. Internet security tips are great, but if everyone does the same thing, then it’s much easier for bad actors to take guesses.
Mastering Senior Online Safety
Using a safe password is one of the many ways you can ensure digital safety for elderly individuals. Senior online safety may start with creating strong passwords, but make sure you’re also browsing safely. Do your best to understand things like phishing scams and the many other threats on the internet.
Lakeside At Mallard Landing is dedicated to offering the best value and quality to our residents. our amenities and activities are created specifically for each lifestyle option, giving you the best path to define your golden years. Schedule a tour today to see if we’re the right community for you.
