Having strong passwords is essential to protect Internet accounts of all kinds, such as social networks, email, bank accounts… However, sometimes we think that we are well protected, but in reality this is not the case. We are going to talk to you about some myths that you should know, so that you do not make mistakes and can maintain the security of your accounts at the highest level at all times.
We can say that the password is the main barrier that will prevent anyone from entering your accounts. However, it is not the only security measure we can use. There are other additional layers that will also help with that protection. It is essential not to make mistakes when you register on a platform and want to protect it.
Myths when protecting an online account
There are beliefs that can cause your security to not be well protected. You may think that you are using a proper password to protect your Facebook or Gmail account, but in reality those platforms are exposed and could be accessed without your permission.
Using a very strong password for everything is enough
The first mistake is to think that it is enough to use a very good password, for all types of accounts. The truth is that no. It is useless to have the best password if it is leaked on the Internet and that means that many other accounts are exposed. The ideal is to always have a different one in each case.
Therefore, we advise you not to try to use a very good password for everything, but to have a different one for each account. For example, one for the email, another for Facebook, another for the bank… Always meeting the minimums of being unique, a good length, etc.
You have to continually change the password
Another myth is that it is necessary to change the password very frequently. This is really not necessary. If you have a good password, that complies with all security measures, and there is no reason for this, you can continue using it. However, whenever you have any doubts or for some reason there is a risk, it is advisable to change it.
In fact, it can be a mistake to continually change it, since it is possible that the new password you create will be weaker than the previous one. Therefore, it is something that you should keep in mind and not make mistakes.
There is no need to use 2FA if the password is strong
You should also not do without two-step authentication, even if you are using a password that is very strong. Regardless of the type of key, you can fall into the error of Phishing, have a leak, be a victim of a keylogger… Therefore, it is always a good idea to use 2FA.
By using multi-factor authentication, you will create an extra layer of protection. Basically, that second step will be necessary to enter. It can be a code that you receive via SMS, for example, as well as through apps like Google Authenticator.
It is a good idea to memorize the keys
You should also avoid memorizing passwords. If you are able to memorize all your passwords, it means that they are not good. You may use easy-to-remember words, numbers that relate to you, etc. If you have a single password for each account, it is normal that you will not be able to memorize them and that is a good sign.
You can use key managers, such as LastPass, Dashlane or KeePass. There you can store them and you will only have to memorize the master password to access all the others.
In short, these are some myths that you should keep in mind when you are going to use passwords. It is essential not to make mistakes, as you could compromise your records on the Internet. Make sure you always use unique, secure keys and avoid making mistakes.