Category: Essentials

Has your password been stolen?

Almost every week a new item hits the news about compromised computer systems and stolen passwords. Do you know that passwords are actually sold on the black market for real money? Why? Because compromised passwords can, and are, being used to steal real money from internet users.

compromised passwords are being used to steal real money

Here is just one recent news item: Millions of stolen passwords and email addresses sold online

Are you at risk?

Yes, if you fit into any of these 3 categories:

You use the same password on more than one website
You don’t use a password manager
You don’t have 2FA (two factor authentication) enabled

Lastpass has outlined more details on why passwords matter, and what you can do to protect yourself. Please read this important article here: The 411 on the Password Black Market

Another sobering reminder about why you should never use the same password on more than one website is explained in this video: Password Cracking

How CAN I protect MYSELF?

At the very least:

Never use the same password on more than one website
Use a password manager so that you are not overwhelmed with passwords
Enable 2FA (two factor authentication) on any accounts of yours that support it

Does you or your business need further help on your IT security? Contact us for more information on the consulting services we offer. If you have any questions regarding this article, please let us know below.

Sign in with your phone instead of a password

Instead of typing your password each time you sign in to your Google Account, you can have a prompt sent to your phone.

Security is important, but constantly having to type your password and enter your 2FA (you know, those codes that change every 30 mins) code can be tedious. You already have 2FA enabled I’m sure, but what about this new feature released by Google today? How does this work? Is it secure? How do you enable it?

How does it work?

You simply tap the notification on your phone from Google to confirm, and you’ll be signed in quickly and securely. If your phone isn’t nearby, you can select “Use your password instead” on the sign-in screen.

Is it secure?

Yes. It’s a second factor authentication. Google knows if you are logged in using your phone, and this only works with phones that have either a passcode or fingerprint lock enabled.

I want it, how do I make it happen?

Simply follow the steps in the Google guide: Sign in with your phone instead of a password You will need to ensure you have the “Google Search” app installed, however most of you will already have that installed on your Android or iPhone.

Another simple guide from Google is here: New settings for 2-Step Verification

It is a secure two factor authentication process

Do it! Let us know how you go or if you have any questions.

Bbbbbb Backups

Do you know what backups are? If so, do you have them? Here’s a link to a post we recently wrote on this subject: backups-are-for-sissies-right

Backups could save you $1000’s

If you have not read it yet, please do. It could well save you $1000’s in lost time and data.

If you don’t yet know what backups are and why you need them, we suggest you take some time today to find out. Backups could save you $1000’s.

Backup today!