As we get closer to the Holidays and gift giving. Let's think about that computer, tablet, or
smart device that you're going to give to yourself or a family member. We get a new device and want to set up email
and other accounts. What do we do with our login and
security questions? Do you write
them down some place? or just figure you'll remember them?
As we set up accounts for ourselves and maybe our parents,
for social media and email accounts, Apple
and other accounts. Make sure you write down the security
question AND answer in a secure place.
Also any pin numbers associated with that account or what have you. In a year or two will you remember the answer to your multiple security
questions? "Who is your
favorite author?"... Hemmingway..
or did I type in hemmingway? if you do
not enter the answer exactly , it will not be validated.
As you create or update all these accounts, be sure to document the questions
and answers to what they are asking.
Secure the document, perhaps by keeping it on a thumb drive (or USB flash drive). This way if
your device is compromised you're security information is not. DO NOT
save it to a file on your hard drive.
I have a client that
is over 65 and was locked out of their email account. They now have some health issues and do not
know the responses t the security questions.
The "Help Desk" or
"Support" personal will NOT unlock your account if you cannot
validate yourself as the owner of that account.
SO remember your PIN number or whatever you enter as your authentication
method for your accounts. My client has
to go to the company office with 2 forms of ID to unlock the account.
Take the time when you set up accounts to securely document the responses so you're not frustrated later when you're
locked out.
Lot of the accounts will now let you authenticate by sending
a code to your smart phone. These are
easy , fast and secure. Take the time to
set those up if you haven't already.
Enjoy your new devices, safely.
Sincerely,
