In our janitorial days, we taught clients never to use the same rag for the bathroom and the kitchen. In the digital world, the same rule applies: Never use the same password for banking and social media.
The "Shared Toothbrush" Problem
Using one password for every site is like sharing a toothbrush with strangers. If one site gets breached (infected), every other account you own becomes contaminated instantly. This is the #1 cause of digital identity theft.
How to Scrub Your Credentials
We recommend a 3-step cleaning process for your accounts:
- Audit: Check which accounts use "Password123" or your birthday.
- Sanitize: Change them to random strings (e.g., Xy7#b9!L).
- Automate: Use a Password Manager. Think of it as a secure, sterile container for your keys.
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
MFA is like double-locking your front door. Even if a thief steals your key (password), they still can't get in without the second factor (your phone). Enable this wherever possible.
Hygiene Check: When was the last time you changed your email password? If it's been over a year, do it today.