How to keep all of your accounts safe in a world where people want your data

This updated post, originally published March 21, 2017, addresses the increasing frequency of data breaches and offers guidance on securing your major online accounts. Protecting your accounts is crucial in today's digital landscape.

Many security measures are consistent across platforms. Prioritize strong, unique passwords for each service, changing them regularly. Consider using a password manager to simplify this process. This password management guide provides helpful advice.

Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) whenever available. 2FA adds an extra layer of security by requiring a secondary code, often sent to another device, in addition to your password. While slightly inconvenient, it significantly hinders unauthorized access.

Utilize each service's security features to detect unrecognized devices accessing your accounts.

Securing Your Google Account:

Google's central account management portal allows you to oversee all associated apps and services. The built-in Security Check-up wizard helps review recovery information (phone number and email for account recovery), and identifies connected devices and apps, allowing you to remove any unfamiliar entries. Enable two-step verification under the "Security" menu, requiring a code for new device logins.

[Related: Comprehensive guide to securing your Google account]

Securing Your Apple Accounts:

Apple's approach prioritizes hardware security. While browser-based options are less extensive than Google's, accessing the Apple ID website is key. Enable two-factor authentication, similar to Google's, requiring a code from a registered device for new logins. Review connected devices and remove any unrecognized ones. Log into iCloud.com to sign out of all active sessions.

[Related: Comprehensive guide to securing your Apple and iCloud accounts]

Securing Your Microsoft Account:

Microsoft offers comparable security features to Google and Apple, including device review and two-step verification. Access your Microsoft account page to manage linked devices; remove any unfamiliar ones. The "Security" section manages password options and displays recent activity. Enable two-step verification via "Advanced Security Options" for enhanced protection.

[Related: Comprehensive guide to securing your Microsoft account]

Securing Your Facebook Account:

Facebook provides robust account protection beyond strong passwords. The "Security and Login" settings allow you to review active logins, receive alerts for unrecognized logins, and designate trusted contacts for account recovery. Two-factor authentication adds another layer of security.

[Related: Comprehensive guide to securing your Facebook account]

Securing Your Twitter Account:

Twitter offers essential security features accessible through the Twitter Settings page. Enable two-factor authentication via "Security and account access > Security," choosing your preferred verification method. Enable "Additional password protection" for extra security during password resets.

[Related: Guide to enhancing Twitter account security]

Securing Your Yahoo Account:

For Yahoo accounts, visit the Yahoo account page and access "Account Security" to enable two-step verification and set up app passwords for linked services.

Securing Other Accounts:

Most online accounts offer similar security options. Explore the settings to find and enable two-step verification. Remember, complete online security is unattainable. Stay informed about security news, be wary of phishing attempts, and keep your software updated.

The above is the detailed content of How to keep all of your accounts safe in a world where people want your data. For more information, please follow other related articles on the PHP Chinese website!