Online accounts contain some of our most valuable personal information, from private messages and photos to financial details and work documents. Losing access to an account can be stressful, but a few simple security habits can significantly reduce the risk.

Here are ten practical steps you can take to protect your accounts.

1. Use Strong, Unique Passwords

Avoid using the same password across multiple websites. If one service suffers a data breach, attackers may try the exposed password on your other accounts.

Create long, unique passwords for important services. A reputable password manager can help you generate and store them securely.

2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication

Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds another verification step when you sign in. Depending on the service, this might be an authenticator app, a security key, or a one-time code.

An authenticator app or security key is generally preferable to SMS when those options are available.

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