Take your online security to the NEXT LEVEL by authenticating to the power of two!

Authentication is one of the simplest, yet most effective, defences when it comes to keeping ourselves safer online.  

Authentication means proving who we are by providing information that only we have or know, proving our identity.  

Password authentication is the most common way to gain access the various applications and online services we use – like social media, online shopping, and probably even your local online pizza place. 

But managing passwords can feel like a bit of a chore, especially if you need a few – which most people do. In fact,  Studies show that a person with an active digital life has 100 passwords on average. So it’s no wonder they’re often forgotten the same password is used for different accounts.  Consider using a password manager to STRENGHTEN your password game. It’s like an online safe only you have the key to. 

Not only does a password manager take away the hassle of remembering all your passwords, but it helps you to create long, strong and unique passwords that are harder for scammers to crack.  

Most people jot passwords down somewhere too, especially where you share an account like Netflix with your family. Writing passwords down is risky as anyone finding your secret book of passwords would have instant access to your online accounts. 

While good password habits can go a long way to keep your personal information safe, having two-factor authentication (2FA) takes your defences to the NEXT LEVEL. 2FA is an additional layer of security that requests a second form of verification, to confirm that you are you.  

This makes it nearly impossible for a scammer to gain access, even if they somehow managed to get a hold of your password, unless they had your phone, could unlock it and read your texts or access your authenticator app (like Microsoft Authenticator). It might sound far-fetched but it’s a possibility, so make sure you have a strong PIN, pattern or even better a fingerprint or face ID method of locking your phone. 

2FA is widely available, so make sure you POWER UP by turning it on, where available.  

To cut to the chase – 

• Have a long and strong password. 

• Turn on 2FA on all your online accounts, and  

• Lock your phone. 

Take your online security to the NEXT LEVEL by authenticating twice, and follow CERT NZ for other cyber smart tips.