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What's your password??
Do you know what your passwords are? For your computer? For the server? For the router? For other computers in the office? :confused:
Are they posted on a “sticky” somewhere, or under your keyboard - for everyone to see or find? How many are left as the default?:o
Many people do not take security and passwords seriously. After all, who would want my data? But - it may not even be your data “they” are after.
Hackers are equipped with advanced programs that make breaking short passwords a very quick & simple process. Usually a "brute force" or "alphabet" attack can crack short passwords.:eek:
*Passwords are not stored on your machine if you EXCEED 14 characters in length; this makes it much more difficult for a hacker to “hack” into your password.
Use Pass Phrases like; [I fly like Superman when Crashing!] When you can.
If the character length is limited, then use "strong" passwords - use alpha and numeric characters WITH some special characters AND use both upper and lower case.
Hackers rarely are after your data, they would rather "use" yor system for their use.
** File storage: Use spare space to store their files, movies, music, pictures. Some of the content may be very questionable and even offensive...but it's free for a hacker. These files are almost always illegal and you could be held responsible for it.
** Spam: Use your server to send out spam. Or be part of a Denial of Service, (DoS) attack on a website or server.
** Phishing: Use your server to send out phishing emails (emails that look like another "real" web site . . . but it really goes to the hacker's site). For example, a banking site, asking you to confirm your social security number for "security". "They" get the info - and it's tracked back to you.
** Illegal activity: Use your server to conduct an illegal business. You can be held responsible for this.
But sometimes it is the data they are after. Usually busineses more so then Personal PCs. But they can still get at it if they want it bad enough.
** Financial data: Search your files for financial data - and then work more scams
** Credit cards: Search your files for credit card and other confidential information - and use as they see fit. Perhaps sell your identity.
Do you begin to see the problem?
Change your passwords and keep them secure. Anytime someone leaves your office, make it a company policy to have everyone change passwords. Why leave doubt in anyone's mind - just in case something were to happen.
On your Personal PC, if more then one user account has been set up, be sure to have passwords for each user. This helps the kids from messin' with your stuff at the very least.
Another common feature available on servers is the ability to allow passwords to be changed only by the Administrator or force the users to change their logon passwords at predetermined intervals.
Use passwords on applicatons like Quickbooks, Quicken, Peachtree, MS Money or any other financial program. This makes it more difficult for hackers to access the program's database.
Be Smart, Be Secure. Be Safe. Sleep well at night.
If you have any questions, just ask!!!
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Originally Posted by ElderGeek
J/K
