security Archives - Page 2 of 8

Q&A: Is it really dangerous to keep using Windows 7?

Posted on April 28, 2024

Question from Luisa: I’m hoping you can clear something up for me.

I’ve heard some people say we need to stop using Windows 7 now that Microsoft has stopped updating it because it’s no longer safe.

Others are saying it’s perfectly fine to keep using it as long as the computer has an antivirus on it.

This is really confusing to me.

My HP laptop is old but it still works fine even though it has Windows 7 on it. I really hate the thought of having to replace it, but I will if it’s really unsafe to use.

Rick’s answer: [Read more…]

Q&A: What’s your recommendation for securely storing passwords?

Posted on April 26, 2024

Question from John: Rick, I’ve seen multiple articles regarding the dangers of using password managers or storing passwords in browsers.

Ok, I get it, but the flip side is also very daunting.

For me, I have over a dozen Internet accounts, and keeping track of all those passwords without some kind of automated manager is almost impossible.

Believe it or not, each and every password is extremely complex and UNIQUE.

Here’s an example of one password: A422A#5zkhN32B

This does not bode well for memorization.

I refuse to use any password manager that stores this information anywhere other than my local computer. Roboform used to, but now stores in the cloud.

I would be very interested in your recommendations for this situation. Thanks.

Rick’s answer: [Read more…]

Q&A: What happens with Two-Factor Authentication if I switch phones?

Posted on April 3, 2024

Question from Tina: I currently use the Google Authenticator app on my phone to retrieve the Two-Factor Authentication codes for logging into my online accounts.

I’m getting ready to buy a new phone and I want to make sure I won’t do something that gets me logged out of my accounts with no way to retrieve the codes to log back in.

Is there a simple way to transfer the Google Authenticator app to a new phone without messing everything up in the process? [Read more…]

Q&A: Is a 6 digit PIN really all that much more secure than 4 digits?

Posted on February 25, 2024

Question from Andy: My girlfriend and I have a bet that’s riding on your answer to this question:

Is a six digit PIN really all that more secure than a four digit PIN?

It don’t seem like just two digits could make that much of a difference. She says it makes a big difference if someone ever tries to break into my phone.

So who’s right? [Read more…]