16 Billion Passwords Hacked—What You Can Do to Stay Safe
– By #Midstate
A recent data breach exposed a staggering 16 billion stolen passwords—yes, billion. That means passwords from popular email services, social media platforms, shopping sites, and more are now floating around on the dark web. If you’re using the same password in more than one place—or haven’t changed it in years—it’s time to take action.
The good news? A few simple steps can go a long way in protecting your online accounts. Let’s break it down:
Change Your Passwords—Especially the Important Ones
Start with the big stuff: email, banking, shopping, and social media. If any of those passwords are weak (like “password123”) or reused across multiple accounts, update them now.
Tips for a strong password:
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Use a mix of upper and lower case letters, numbers, and special characters.
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Aim for 12 characters or more.
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Avoid using real names, birthdays, or common words.
Pro tip: If you can’t remember all those complex passwords, that’s where a password manager comes in handy.
Use a Password Manager
Remembering one good password is easier than remembering 10 weak ones. A password manager securely stores all your login info in one place and can even generate strong passwords for you. You’ll only need to remember one master password to access everything else.
Some popular password managers include 1Password, Dashlane, and Bitwarden, and many offer free versions for individuals and families.
Turn On Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Even a strong password isn’t foolproof. That’s why we recommend enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever it’s offered.
With 2FA, after you enter your password, you’ll also need to enter a code sent to your phone, email, or an authenticator app. It’s a simple step that adds a powerful layer of protection—even if someone has your password, they can’t log in without that second code.
Need Help Getting Started?
Cybersecurity doesn’t have to be complicated. Midstate is here to help you protect your connection—and your peace of mind. If you have questions about setting up strong passwords, using a password manager, or enabling two-factor authentication, give us a call or text at 605-778-6221.
Want to dive deeper?
Check out more helpful tips and best practices from the experts at Stay Safe Online.
Because in today’s world, online safety isn’t optional—it’s essential.
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