How to Keep Your Online Accounts Secure
In today’s digital world, keeping your online accounts secure is more important than ever. Cybercriminals use increasingly sophisticated tactics to steal personal information, compromise accounts, and commit fraud. To stay protected, it’s essential to follow best practices for online security.
Here are some essential steps you can take to safeguard your accounts, based on advice from the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC).
1. Use a Strong, Unique Password for Each Account
Your passwords are the first line of defense against hackers. If a cybercriminal gains access to one account, they may try to use the same credentials elsewhere.
Best Practice:
Use a unique password for every account—especially critical ones like email, banking, and work accounts.
Create strong passwords using three random words (e.g., "TableRocketSunset") or use a password manager.
Avoid common passwords like “Password123” or anything related to your name, company, or birthdate.
Example of a Security Breach:
If you use the same password for multiple sites and one of them is hacked, criminals can use your credentials to access your other accounts. This is called credential stuffing, and it’s a common way accounts are compromised.
2. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for Extra Security
Even if someone steals your password, MFA prevents them from logging in without an extra step—such as a code sent to your phone or email.
How to Set It Up:
Many online services, including email providers and financial platforms, offer MFA—enable it in your settings.
Choose authentication methods such as app-based verification (Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator) over SMS when possible, as SMS codes can be intercepted.
Example of an Attack Prevented by MFA:
A hacker tries to log into your email using a stolen password, but because MFA is enabled, they’re stopped when they can’t enter the verification code sent to your mobile device.
3. Be Wary of Phishing Emails and Fake Websites
Phishing emails trick you into giving away passwords or downloading malware. These often appear to come from trusted sources—such as your bank, employer, or an online service you use.
Red Flags to Look For:
🚩 Urgency or pressure – “Your account will be deactivated in 24 hours unless you act now!”
🚩 Suspicious links or attachments – Hover over links to check the actual URL before clicking.
🚩 Incorrect sender addresses – Fraudsters often use emails that look official but have small differences (e.g., support@secure-bank.com vs. support@secureb4nk.com).
Example of a Phishing Attempt:
A user receives an email claiming, “Your account has been compromised. Click here to reset your password.” The link leads to a fake login page designed to steal credentials.
How to Protect Yourself:
Always go directly to a company’s official website instead of clicking on links in emails.
If you’re unsure whether an email is genuine, contact the company directly through verified contact details.
4. Watch Out for Account Cloning Scams
Some criminals create fake profiles or websites impersonating real businesses or individuals to gain trust and steal information.
How to Spot an Account Cloning Attempt:
You receive an email or message from a familiar sender, but something seems "off."
Someone claiming to be a company representative asks for sensitive information they wouldn’t normally request.
You notice unusual activity in your online accounts (e.g., logins from unknown locations).
Example of an Account Cloning Scam:
A scammer sets up a fake social media profile pretending to be a trusted contact or business and asks users for personal details or payments.
How to Stay Safe:
Never share your password via email, social media, or over the phone.
If you suspect a cloned account, report it to the relevant platform immediately.
Need Help? Stay Informed and Secure
Staying proactive about online security can protect you from fraud, identity theft, and financial loss. Regularly update your passwords, enable MFA where possible, and be cautious of unsolicited emails and messages.
By following these steps, you can protect your personal and business accounts from cyber threats. Stay vigilant, stay secure, and help others by sharing these best practices!