Do you have private thoughts, diaries, or messages that you want to keep safe from prying eyes? In the digital age, safely storing sensitive personal information is more challenging than ever. From online hacking to device theft, there are many risks for exposing your most intimate details if you don’t take precautions. It is where leveraging the power of strong passwords comes in handy. Passwords act as keys, allowing only those who know the password access to the locked content. By using passwords carefully and strategically, you confidently record your innermost feelings and important information digitally while minimizing the chances of unauthorized access.
Use a password manager
Creating and remembering many powerful, complex passwords for all your accounts is impractical. This is where using a dedicated password manager app is invaluable. Password managers generate, store, and even enter passwords for you across all websites and apps. All you need to remember is one master password to unlock the manager. Leading password managers offer top-grade encrypted storage for all your passwords. The vault is only unlocked when you enter your complex master password. It takes the headache out of the password creation process, so you have peace of mind that all your login credentials and private data are secured safely behind a vault.
Create long, random passwords
Can we make notes private? Cybersecurity experts recommend passwords be at least 12 characters long, with a mix of uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid easily guessable words and personal information when making a password. Using randomly generated passwords ensures even maximum computing power can’t easily crack the code. To create truly random characters not limited by human-selected patterns, use a password generator tool to instantly produce strong passwords. Insert these unique passwords anywhere you have private information you want to protect behind an indecipherable password. The first is your standard password. The second is typically a temporary one-time passcode sent to your phone or email. So, even if someone correctly guesses your password, they still cannot access your account or device unless they also have possession of your phone that receives the passcode.
Change passwords frequently
While complex passwords are certainly safer, it is still smart practice to periodically change your passwords just in case. Major online platforms now even prompt users to update their passwords every few months. Beyond just changing a password when required or when you suspect a breach, get into the routine habit of refreshing older passwords every 60-90 days. Creating and remembering wholly new passwords constantly may seem like a nuisance. The manager removes all the frustrations around regularly regenerating tough passwords. Software generators produce strong new credentials instantly while the manager conveniently stores them for password autofill whenever you need them.
Delete data history regularly
Beyond protecting access to your devices and accounts with proper password use, also be aware of the data you are actively generating and storing. Set reminders to regularly delete browsing history, messages, and notes. It removes sensitive records that could be pulled up retroactively if someone gained access to your accounts. For even greater privacy, leverage specialized apps that allow setting auto-delete timers for messages, texts, and notes. Proactively removing digital records protects your data from unauthorized internal access as much as from external hacking.