By JV M. Reyes
We rely on technology to stay connected – to our friends, families, and teams. We maintain apps and accounts for email, social media, banking, remote work, shopping, entertainment, gaming and everything in between. With all the accounts and password combinations to memorize, it’s no wonder account lockouts happen every day. In fact, the average U.S. Internet user gets locked out of 10 accounts per month. If you’ve been locked out of an account, you know how tedious recovery can seem. Read on for some pain-saving tips to prevent account lockout and pain-free methods for account recovery.
First things, first: Reset
Six failed password attempts in a row will usually trigger account lockout. Look for “forgot password,” click and follow the instructions to reset your password. When you create an account on any platform, that account is usually linked to your email. Check your email for instructions on the next steps, and that’s it! You’re in! If you lose all access to your email, you unfortunately likely lost "the keys to the kingdom." Here are some safety tips to help you avoid this.
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Prevent lockout and maintain secure control of your accounts
Tip #1: Use a password manager to keep track of passwords
Most sites will require that your passwords contain up to eight characters, a number, an upper-case letter, and a special symbol. To keep your passwords conveniently accessible and still safe from hackers, we recommend using a password manager application, such as 1password. These password manager applications are secure and only require one master password, while it stores all your passwords in one secure place.
Another password manager available to Apple users is the iCloud Keychain, a built-in feature for Apple devices. It suggests safe complex passwords for you, then securely stores and syncs them across all your Apple devices. In addition, iCloud Keychain securely stores and can auto-fill other information that you consent to, including Wi-Fi passwords, credit card numbers, card expiration dates, and more. The saved personal data can be used to autofill web forms and log into websites.
Tip #2: Use two-factor authentication
Two-factor authentication is an extra layer of security for your online accounts. It increases your protection by requiring two types of identity verification to log in. Typically, your first authentication is to input your username and password, while the second authentication requires another access point such as your email, your mobile or landline phone, or an authentication app.
A safer way to receive verification codes is to generate them yourself using an authentication app like Google Authenticator or Microsoft Authenticator. Once set up, you can choose to register your device or browser, so you don't need to keep verifying each time you sign in.
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Tip #3: Monitor saved passwords on Apple and Google accounts
For Apple users, the iCloud Keychain automatically monitors your passwords and will alert you to change your password if any potential threats are detected. To enable password breach notifications, go to Settings > Passwords > Security Recommendations > toggle Detect Compromised Passwords. Then, toggle to the recommendations page, where you can see any security concerns and recommendations related to your accounts.
For Google Chrome users, alerts can also be set up for known data leaks. To enable breach notifications, open Google Chrome on your computer > At the top right, click More> Settings > Privacy and Security > Security > Standard Protection > toggle Warn you if passwords are exposed in a data breach.
We know that technology has become more of a necessity in our everyday lives, and that’s why monitoring your password safety is crucial in staying connected.
Our Docomo Pacific TechZone experts take pride in solving your tech emergencies. Whether it's figuring out a feature on the latest device or transferring content from one phone to another, we know you want fast, accurate help from your service provider. There is no problem too small for us to help. For in-store assistance, visit us at:
· Guam: Tamuning HQ, Agana Shopping Center, or Micronesia Mall.
· Saipan: Gualo Rai
For help, via phone, Docomo Pacific’s Tech Support Team is available 24/7 at 671-688-2273 (Guam) and 670-488-2273 (CNMI).
JV M. Reyes is the TechZone supervisor for Docomo Pacific. He has 10 years of experience with technology in the telecommunication field.
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