World Password Day - First Thursday in May

World Password Day is a celebration to promote better password habits. Passwords are critical gatekeepers to our digital identities, allowing us to access online shopping, dating, banking, social media, private work and life communications

Security researcher Mark Burnett first encouraged people to have a “password day,” where they update important passwords in his 2005 book Perfect Passwords.  

Inspired by his idea, Intel Security took the initiative to declare the first Thursday in May World Password Day in May 2013

On World Password Day, 2016, Intel Security would like to share some pointers to avoid being a victim. In order to keep their digital lives as well as confidential data safe and secure, consumers should:
Use strong, unique passwords across devices and account: Ensure to configure the device to automatically lock after a certain period of time, post which it requires a personal identification number (PIN) or password to be unlocked. Even if the device is locked, don’t leave the device unattended in public as lost and stolen devices can be a big threat to personal data
Update systems with latest OS and application updates: This prevents cybercriminals from getting a foothold on devices
Use only official app Stores and legitimate software: App stores are alerted when new malicious applications are found, so even if something slips through, consumers are still safe going through a trusted app store or software than going through an unverified source
Act responsibly: Be aware that as we adopt more wearable or implanted technologies they will be connected and transmitting information. It is therefore critical to check that they have security and privacy settings built in by default
Use comprehensive security software: Keeping internet connected devices up to date will help them to stay safe from older viruses, but you should also install anti-virus software on the devices to protect against new threats or older threats that haven’t yet been fixed by OS or application updates.
Be suspicious: When in doubt, remember the mantra- “Stop, Think, Connect.”. It is better that you be suspicious and check files and messages before opening them than to be too trusting and fall prey to a cyberattack.
In case someone suspects that their account has been hacked, they should look at taking the following steps:
Change password and security questions immediately: in case account is not blocked, do update the details immediately and use a new password with a mix of characters, alphabets and numbers. Also ensure to change the password frequently
Install and update the security software: This will help secure account details against malware
Notify relevant authorities (including the ISP and employers) and personal contacts about the hacking: Just so that they can be wary of receiving any suspicious looking communication from the account
Double check account settings: Look for changes in account signature, auto-forwarding, filter settings etc., so that mails or information is not being auto sent to a different contact without explicit permission