Protecting your Coast IT account starts with using strong, unique passwords and managing them securely. By following best practices for password creation and management, you can greatly reduce the risk of unauthorized access to your account. Here’s how to create and maintain secure passwords:
1. Use a Strong, Unique Password for Each Account
Avoid reusing passwords across different accounts. Instead, create a unique password for your Coast IT account to ensure that even if another account is compromised, your Coast IT account remains secure.
2. Characteristics of a Strong Password
A strong password should:
- Be at least 12 characters long
- Include uppercase and lowercase letters
- Contain numbers
- Have special characters (e.g., !, @, #, $)
- Avoid common words or phrases, like “password” or “123456”
For example, a strong password might look like: Jd4$hX!9wzB#3Qf
3. Avoid Personal Information
Do not include easily guessed information in your passwords, such as your name, birthday, or common phrases. Using unique and random combinations makes your password harder to crack.
4. Consider Using a Passphrase
A passphrase is a series of unrelated words that are easy for you to remember but hard for others to guess. For example, “BlueCat#RunFast@12” combines random words with numbers and symbols to create a memorable but secure passphrase.
5. Use a Password Manager
Password managers are tools that store and manage your passwords securely. They can help you generate complex passwords and save them so you don’t have to remember each one. Popular password managers include LastPass, 1Password, and Bitwarden. Using a password manager allows you to create long, complex passwords without the hassle of memorizing them.
6. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
If available, enable two-factor authentication on your Coast IT account for an added layer of security. With 2FA, you’ll need both your password and a verification code sent to your mobile device to access your account, making unauthorized access more difficult.
7. Regularly Update Your Passwords
Change your passwords periodically, especially if you suspect any unusual activity on your account. Regular updates can prevent potential security threats and keep your account safe.
8. Avoid Sharing Your Password
Never share your password with others, even trusted friends or colleagues. If multiple people need access to an account, consider creating authorized users with individual logins instead of sharing your own password.
Maintaining Security with Strong Passwords
Following these best practices for password creation and management will help secure your Coast IT account. Strong, unique passwords are a vital first line of defense against unauthorized access, and using a password manager can make managing them easier and more efficient.
Need Help with Security?
If you have questions about setting up or managing secure passwords, feel free to contact our support team. We’re here to help you keep your account safe.
