Weak passwords and poor security practices can leave users vulnerable to cyberattacks, risking the loss of personal information and digital assets.
From the Binance platform , in commemoration of World Password Day ( May 4) , they shared with Cointelegraph in Spanish, 9 tips to help users create and protect their passwords.
As the digital ecosystem evolves , ensuring the security of online accounts has become very important. Weak passwords and poor security practices can leave users vulnerable to cyberattacks , risking the loss of personal information and digital assets .
In order to promote the improvement in user security, here we present the main measures to take into account to create and protect passwords :
- Use a long and unique password : It is recommended not to use easy-to-guess passwords such as ‘123456’ or ‘password’. Instead, it’s best if they’re at least 12 characters long and include a mix of upper and lower case letters, numbers, and special characters. The longer and more complex the password, the more difficult it will be for cybercriminals to crack.
- Avoid using personal information : Easy-to-guess information such as name, date of birth, or phone number increases the risk of exposure. Cyber criminals can easily obtain this information from public sources, making it easier for them to crack the password. Therefore, it is best to use random combinations of characters that are not related to your personal information .
- Two-factor authentication (2FA) as a mantra : Enabling 2FA, whenever possible, adds an extra layer of account security . Two-factor authentication requires users to provide an additional code or token to access their account, making it difficult for criminals to gain unauthorized access even if they manage to crack the password.
- Avoid using the same password for multiple accounts : This increases the risk of a security breach. If one account is compromised, the same will happen to all other accounts using the same password. A unique password should be used for each account to minimize potential damage in the event of a security breach .
- Regularly update the password : Setting a reminder to change the password at regular intervals, for example, every 3 to 6 months, can prevent a big headache. The key is not to use the same password for a long period of time . Updating it regularly helps keep your account protected.
- Beware of public Wi-Fi networks : Try not to use public Wi-Fi networks , such as those in coffee shops, airports , or other public places . These may not be secure and expose your personal information to potential attackers. Instead, it’s a good idea to use a secure and trusted Internet connection, such as your home Wi-Fi or a mobile data network.
- Special attention to phishing attempts : This type of cyber attack is unfortunately very common on the Internet and it is important to be aware of them. It mainly occurs in emails, messages or websites that request personal information . Therefore, it is advisable to always check the legitimacy of the source before clicking on any link or providing confidential information.
- Keep programs and devices updated : To maintain the security of accounts, it is essential that the operating system, browser and other programs are updated with the latest patches and security updates . Outdated software may have vulnerabilities that can be exploited by cyber attackers. In addition, you need to ensure that your devices, including your computer and mobile phone , have up-to-date antivirus and antimalware programs installed to protect yourself from potential cyber threats.
- Enabling email notifications for account activity : Most accounts and platforms that have registration allow you to enable email notifications for various account activities, such as login attempts, withdrawals and API key changes . By enabling these notifications, the user will be able to receive alerts whenever there is suspicious activity in their account , allowing them to take immediate action if necessary. You should also periodically review these notifications to ensure that all account activity is legitimate and immediately report any suspicious activity to the security or customer support teams.
Javier Garcia de la Torre, Director of Binance for Spain and Portugal said: “ International Password Day serves as a reminder for users to prioritize the security of their online accounts. By following these 9 tips, users can significantly reduce the risk of their accounts being compromised and ensure a safer online experience and protect their personal information,” he further added: “Binance remains committed to providing a secure platform for its users and continually invests in advanced security measures to protect against cyber threats .”
