Hello everyone! I'm Shemihaza, the Sentinel. Today, let's talk about "passwords"—the most familiar yet most easily forgotten aspect of using the internet. You all use passwords for numerous websites and apps, right? Perhaps you're using the same password for every service, or maybe you're opting for easy-to-remember passwords? That's like handing the keys over to a thief. Your valuable information might be stolen without you even knowing it!
The Terrifying Traps of Password Reuse and Weak Passwords
- ▸① **Targeted in a Chain Reaction by "Credential Stuffing"!** If a password leaks from just one service, other services where that same password is reused will also be sequentially infiltrated by thieves. This is called "credential stuffing" and is one of the most common tactics used by cybercriminals.
- ▸② **"Weak Passwords" Can Be Cracked in Seconds!** Birthdays, names, pet names, simple number sequences (e.g., 123456), or keyboard patterns (e.g., qwerty) can be quickly cracked by a thief's computer. These are typical examples of "weak passwords."
- ▸③ **Personal Information Stolen, Even Money Can Be Taken!** If your account is hijacked, vital personal information such as your name, address, phone number, and credit card information could be stolen. Beyond financial damage like unauthorized withdrawals from your online bank or expensive purchases on e-commerce sites, there's also the risk of your social media accounts being used to send fraudulent messages to friends or make suspicious posts, potentially involving those around you.
Checkpoints to Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones
- ✓Ensure you set a unique password for every online service.
- ✓Verify that you are using complex passwords of 10 or more characters, combining uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
- ✓Confirm that you have implemented a convenient tool like a password manager to securely manage complex passwords.
- ✓Check if there are any important services where you haven't enabled "Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)." Even if your password leaks, another authentication step will protect you.
- ✓Regularly check for any unfamiliar login notifications or emails. If you receive any suspicious notifications, immediately change your password and contact your card company or service provider.
Where to Seek Help When in Trouble
If you ever feel anxious, thinking, "Could I have been a victim?", don't try to handle it alone; seek advice immediately. The Consumer Hotline (188) and the Police Consultation Dial (#9110) are always there to help you. If you notice unauthorized use of your credit card, call your card company immediately to initiate the suspension process. Taking prompt action will help minimize the damage.