You have probably seen references to the internet bug Heartbleed all over the news and the web. This bug affects the framework that many websites you to privately send and receive data.
Personally, I have been receiving emails for 2 days now from various companies telling me whether I need to reset my passwords with them or not. My rule of thumb? Safety ALWAYS comes first.
It’s time to be proactive. Here is what you need to do:
- Reset all of your online passwords. The urgent ones are listed here, but I highly suggest doing some spring cleaning and resetting them all. Yes – all.
- Use unique passwords for EVERY site. I give this lecture to my clients all the time. I don’t know how many times I will ask for login information to 10 different websites and the list of passwords they send me are exactly the same! If a hacker gets into one of your accounts, there is nothing preventing them from accessing ALL of your accounts. And be sure to make your new passwords unique and strong. Incorporate symbols, numbers and letters in your passwords.
- Keep a record of your passwords somewhere safe. You can keep a physical list of your passwords or use a reputable online storage system… but whatever you do make sure they are safe.
The internet is a wonderful place – but you have to make sure you keep your information safe.
Additional Note: Now is a wonderful time to Spring Clean through your email memberships while changing passwords. For example, as much as I love the toddler clothing companies that have sent me emails over the years, my youngest child is turning 10 so I probably can eliminate that account now. 🙂 The more you Spring Clean, the cleaner your inbox gets too!