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Monthly Archives

September 2014

Six Tips Help You Choose Passwords That Protect You Online

By Personal Perspective

As you navigate the Internet, you find yourself juggling numerous passwords. You could choose one password for all your accounts, but that’s easy for someone to steal. Try six tips that assist you in choosing passwords that can’t be hacked.

  1. Review all your passwords. This protective action will take some time, but it serves as a password audit. You’ll see what types of passwords you use, find out if any are repeated between sites and determine which ones need to be changed.
  2. Don’t use duplicates. All your online sites need unique passwords. If your audit reveals duplicates, change them.
  3. Stop using common passwords. You probably don’t use the word “password” to access any of your accounts, but using the name of your child, street or pet is just as insecure. Anyone who knows you can now access your bank statement, email or other personal accounts.
  4. Delete password notification emails. When you change a password or request a new one, the site will typically send you an automated email with your new password. Delete those emails immediately. Hackers can access them and use your passwords to get into your accounts.
  5. Use long strings of characters. Simple passwords like “fancynancy” or “bigbob5” are easy to remember, but they are also easy to steal. Give an online thief a run for his or her money and use a combination of lower and upper case letters, numbers and symbols. Remember, too, that longer passwords are also stronger.
  6. Use a password manager. It stores all your passwords and assists you creating strong passwords in the future. Plus, it encrypts all your passwords so that hackers can’t decipher them.

These six tips assist you in keeping your passwords safe and your online presence secure. Talk to your insurance agent about identity protection coverage, too. It’s a second layer of security that keeps you safe online.

Eight Tips to Protect Your Car at College

By Personal Perspective

Driving your car to college increases your independence. You need to keep it safe from thieves and vandals, though. Use eight tips as you protect your car at college.

  1. Drive a beater car. Even though it doesn’t look cool, few thieves will try to steal an older model car or one with dents and dings.
  2. Remove electronics. If your GPS or camera sit in the open, a thief is more likely to target your car. Don’t just stuff your GPS or camera under the seat or toss it into the glove box, though. Completely remove all electronics and cords from your car before you leave it unattended. Erase any white marks caused by suction cups attached to the dash or window, too.
  3. Close the windows, lock the car and take the keys. Yes, you’re distracted by a cute co-ed or busy chatting with friends, but these three precautions go a long way toward keeping your car safe.
  4. Invest in OnStar or Lojack. They assist police in finding your vehicle if it is stolen.
  5. Etch your driver’s license into stereo equipment and speakers. This way, the police have an easier time tracking down stolen electronics.
  6. Replace the fancy wheels. They attract thieves, and wheel locks won’t deter a determined thief.
  7. Layer your vehicle’s security. The more safety measures you take, the better protected your car will be because no thief will steal a car that’s difficult to move. So, park in a well-lit lot, preferably one that’s monitored 24/7. Then, utilize an anti-theft device, such as a steering wheel lock, and disconnect the car’s battery.
  8. Purchase adequate auto insurance. Despite your best efforts, your car might be stolen or vandalized. Full coverage auto insurance reduces your liability. The coverage could also pay to replace any stolen contents.

Before you drive your car to college, follow these eight tips. They protect your car and ensure you retain your independence.