Your accounts are the gateway to what you do online
Social media, games, email, streaming platforms and many apps all depend on your accounts.
If someone gets into an important account, they may try to recover passwords for others to try to gain access.
Short or easy-to-guess passwords can be cracked in seconds.
A long, unique password, on the other hand, is much harder to crack. Try using phrases to help expand the length of your password.
Two-step verification, also called 2FA, adds an extra check whenever you log in.
On top of your password, it may ask for a code, your fingerprint or facial recognition. That way, even if someone gets hold of your password, it’ll be much harder for them to access your account.
Reusing passwords is like using the same key for several doors. If someone gets hold of it, they can open them all.
I don’t reuse
passwords
I don’t
reuse
passwords
My accounts are
safer that way
Knowing what you download and accept protects your information and device
If you download apps from unofficial sites, links shared by other people or social media adverts, you run a higher risk of installing malicious software.
Some fake apps can look legitimate but are actually designed to steal information, show unwanted adverts or gain access to parts of your device without you knowing.
When you install an app, it may ask for access to different features on your device.
Some permissions are necessary. Others aren’t. A photo-editing app probably needs access to your images, but not your contacts or location.
Permissions aren’t forever. You can review and change them whenever you want within the app settings.
It’s also a good idea to delete apps you no longer use.
Do I need to give them permission? Take time to have a think before accepting.
I don’t
give
apps access
I don’t
give apps
access
Without understanding
why they need it
Your device holds photos, accounts, and lots of things you use every day
Your phone, tablet or computer holds photos, videos, messages, accounts and apps you use every day.
That’s why it’s important to protect them. The good news is you don’t need to be a tech expert: a few simple habits can massively improve the safety of your device.
Protect access to your device with a PIN, password, fingerprint or facial recognition.
Lock the screen when you’re not using it, and keep your unlock codes to yourself.
Many platforms will notify you if they spot something odd on your account. If you don’t recognise the activity, change your password and check which devices have access. You may be alerted when there is:
Keep your device up to date and pay attention to security alerts. Updates come with protections to plug any potential issues in the software.
I keep my
devices up
to date
I keep my
devices up
to date
And pay attention
to important alerts
You don’t need to know everything or always get it right. What matters is stopping when something doesn’t seem right, checking before you act and asking for help if a situation becomes complicated. Every time you choose to review, ask questions or wait a little before deciding, you’re protecting your online life.
