In today’s world of technology and social media, the security of our personal information is a huge concern.
This week on WGN, we’ve been asking the question, “just how vulnerable are you I today’s digital world?”
This morning, WGN anchors Larry Potash and Lourdes Duarte spoke with Jerry Irvine the chief information officer of an IT company called Prescient Solutions and a member of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Cyber-Security Leadership Council.
So, how can you avoid being hacked? Here are the top three password tips to keep your account secure, according to Irvine:
Passwords:
- At least ten characters, including: upper case letters, lower case letters, special characters and numbers.
- Second form passwords: Most people find them annoying, but are key to keeping your password and account hack free. Facebook and other social media sites allow you to use your cell phone as a second means of authentication. For example, when you log into your Facebook you will receive a text message with a special number password you have to enter in order to access your account
- Change password every 30-45 days: Many people find changing their password annoying, but keeping your new passwords in a secure electronic wallet is a great way to keep track of them in case you forget.