Password Resolutions You Should Make for a Secure 2016

Between our goals to be healthier, happier, and more successful this year, don’t forget to brush up on your security, too. Sure, it’s not as sexy as getting in shape or jetting off on that long-anticipated vacation. But protecting everything you’ve worked hard for is more than worth the time it takes to make some security resolutions for 2016 and follow through. Ready to fortify your digital life and set yourself up for a secure 2016? Here’s where to start:

Eliminate duplicate passwords.

Think reusing passwords doesn’t matter? Think again. Even something as trivial as Fitbit accounts are ripe for the picking. Thieves have been known to take credentials leaked in other breaches and try them on other accounts like Fitbit. Then they falsely claim replacement items under the user’s warranty, to be resold on the black market. Every password matters, and every account should have a different password. Use a password generator to help you create random, strong passwords, and store them in a secure password manager.

Stay two steps ahead.

Turn on two-factor authentication, everywhere you can. Many services now offer the option of two-factor authentication. We strongly recommend turning it on for your LastPass account, too. That extra layer of security could be all that’s needed to completely thwart a hacker.

Store passwords somewhere safe.

Let’s retire the sticky notes and the passwords hiding under keyboards. Saving passwords to a “Note” on your phone or in a document labeled “Passwords” on your desktop isn’t safe, either. The best place to store your passwords is somewhere they are backed up, encrypted, and difficult for others to get to. Password managers like LastPass do all the heavy lifting for you, and safeguard your data with impenetrable encryption and extra security.

Flush out your browser.

Out with the old, in with the new. Delete the cache and cookies from your browser, and transfer any passwords or profiles you had stored to your password manager. In most browsers these changes can be made from the “Settings” or “Internet Options” menus.

Audit your passwords.

It’s never been easier to get a snapshot of how you’re faring with your password security, and how you compare to others using LastPass. Just login to your LastPass account and in your Vault, launch the “Security Challenge”. You’ll get a summary of how strong your passwords are, and you can take action to update old passwords, replace passwords that may have been leaked in data breaches, and more. Watch your score climb as you make improvements!

Take action - now!

Don’t let the simplicity of these tips fool you. Basic precautions and security measures are often the most effective in protecting you from the most common types of attacks. Take a few minutes to beef up your security so you can have more peace of mind knowing you’re better protecting all that you’ve worked for. Stay safe out there! What security goals are you making for 2016? Share your tips in the comments below.

Try LastPass Now