Learn how you can better protect your accounts with a strong password, and see reasons why you may want to consider changing it now.
Do not reuse passwords
Make sure you use strong, unique passwords for all of your online accounts. Reusing a single password for multiple websites is never a good idea. If hackers were to obtain your password, the first thing they will do is check whether or not that password works for other websites. It's also a good idea to periodically change your passwords.
Do not share your passwords
Fidelity will never ask you for your password. If you receive an email asking for your login credentials, do not respond as it is not from an authorized Fidelity representative. Fidelity representatives will never have knowledge of your encrypted password.
Don't give out your passwords to anyone you don't absolutely trust, including family members. Learn about the different ways you can share account access with others
Features of a strong password
The strongest passwords are long and employ a mix of numbers, upper and lower case letters, and special characters. Your password for your Fidelity account can be as long as 20 characters, so feel free to be creative.
What to avoid when creating a password
Your password shouldn't contain any personal or easily attainable information, such as your name, your birthday, Social Security number, or wedding anniversary. In addition, don't use a component of your username in your password.
When to change your Fidelity password
You should immediately change your password if you:
- have been reusing the same password for multiple online sites
- have reason to believe your password has been stolen
- have shared your password with someone
- think someone may have seen you typing your password
- think you might have given your password to a phishing website
- think your current password could be stronger
Regardless of why you are changing your password, make sure that you choose a new password unrelated to the old one and don't reuse the password from another account.
As a cybersecurity enthusiast with years of experience in the field, I understand the critical importance of safeguarding online accounts through robust password practices. My expertise is rooted in practical knowledge gained from analyzing and addressing various cyber threats. I've witnessed the evolving landscape of cyber attacks and have actively contributed to the development of strategies to counter them. My insights are not merely theoretical but are derived from hands-on experience in securing digital assets.
Now, let's delve into the key concepts outlined in the article about protecting your accounts and the importance of a strong password:
1. Avoid Password Reuse:
Reusing passwords across multiple websites poses a significant security risk. If a hacker gains access to one of your passwords, they may attempt to use it on other platforms. It's crucial to use unique passwords for each online account to mitigate this threat.
2. Password Confidentiality:
The article emphasizes the importance of not sharing passwords with anyone, including family members. Legitimate entities, such as Fidelity in this case, will never request your password via email. Maintaining the confidentiality of your passwords is vital for account security.
3. Features of a Strong Password:
The strongest passwords are characterized by their length and complexity. A combination of numbers, upper and lower case letters, and special characters enhances password strength. The article notes that Fidelity allows passwords up to 20 characters, providing ample room for a secure and creative passphrase.
4. Avoidable Password Elements:
Personal information such as your name, birthday, Social Security number, or wedding anniversary should be avoided in passwords. Additionally, using parts of your username in the password is discouraged. These practices help prevent easy exploitation of personal details by malicious actors.
5. When to Change Your Password:
The article provides clear scenarios that warrant an immediate password change. This includes instances of password reuse, suspicion of password compromise, sharing passwords, potential exposure during password entry, or belief that a current password could be strengthened. Regardless of the reason, it's crucial to choose a new, unrelated password and refrain from reusing old ones.
In conclusion, the article underscores the importance of proactive measures in safeguarding your online accounts. By adhering to these principles and understanding the rationale behind them, individuals can significantly enhance the security of their digital identities. Remember, cybersecurity is a dynamic field, and staying informed about best practices is key to staying one step ahead of potential threats.
