How to Make Your Online Accounts More Secure

Posted By: Julie Shenkman In: Business Professional There were many concerns this week when it comes to internet security due to the security breach that LinkedIn unfortunately incurred.

There were many concerns this week when it comes to internet security due to the security breach that LinkedIn unfortunately incurred.  LinkedIn is working to reset the login details on those accounts that were compromised and members will be receiving an email from LinkedIn with instructions for accessing their account with a new password.
 

It is important to note that these emails will NOT include any links for security reasons.  If you do receive an email from a source that looks credible about your LinkedIn password, but it contains links—beware!
 

In the meantime, here are some tips to make your personal and professional online accounts more secure:
 

1. Choose a strong password. Don’t use an obvious password and don’t use the same password for each online account you maintain—while we know this is easy to do because there are so many sites out there that require passwords—it’s critical to maintain different passwords when it comes to maintaining a secure online presence.
    
2. Never save passwords on public computers. Sometimes it’s unavoidable and we need to use a public computer at a conference, tradeshow, library, hotel business center, etc... While we’re used to checking that little “Remember Me Box” that most sites offer—you’re on a computer where other people can access your information—so be sure to deselect the box and proceed with caution.
    
3. Proceed with caution when it comes to using social networking sites in general.  We strongly encourage professionals to proceed with caution when using sites like Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter or the purpose of professional networking. Mixing business with pleasure can be challenging, so remember if you use your personal Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter account for professional purposes be sure to keep your content professional too.  If you maintain accounts on these services but use them for personal use, make sure your privacy settings are set accordingly.
    

4. Look out for Vague Job Postings.  For job seekers, beware of vague job descriptions and jobs that request money or the transfer of funds.  For recruiters, make sure the jobs you post contain as much detail as possible.
    

5. Be wary of sites that ask for your Social Security Number.   For job seekers, if you’re on a site that asks for your social security number and your date of birth, make sure you know how this information will be used.  For recruiters, if you ask a candidate for this information, make sure you tell them up front why you need this information.