Tips to Hacker-Proof Your Passwords

Just as a security system protects your home, passwords defend your financial information from intrusion. How do you ensure your password is strong enough to protect your online financial information? Unfortunately, you’re never 100% protected from hackers, but by following these tips, you can certainly enhance the security of your passwords.

• Use longer passwords. The fact is that the longer your password is, the harder it is to hack. Many IT experts recommend using a password that’s around 12 characters (minimum) with a mix of letters (capital and lowercase), numbers and symbols.
• Use a key phrase that is only familiar to you. Think of something personal to you and use only the first letters of each word as your password. Create a simple sentence or phrase: I Love Hot Chocolate When It Rains May 11! Now, take only the first letters of each word to create your password: ILHCWIRM11! Or, you can come up with something clever using the specialty characters and letters on your computer keyboard or mobile device. The most important thing to remember is your password must be familiar to you—and only you.
• Avoid using family names, birthdates and places where you’ve lived as passwords. While easy to remember, it’s also easier for a hacker to find these things out (and usually the first place a hacker starts).
• Change your passwords regularly (every few months if possible). It’s important to memorize your passwords as well—don’t write them down. However, if you do need to write them down, keep them in a secure location where you alone have access.
• Don’t use the same password for everything you do. Unfortunately, if you use the same password for everything you do, if a hacker deciphers it, all of your information is in serious jeopardy.
• Don’t provide personal financial information while using public WiFi. If you want to shop online or check your account balance, wait until you’re on a secure network. If you enter your passwords while using public WiFi, you’re opening yourself up to hacking.
• Be aware of your surroundings when entering any password or PIN in public. Whether you’re using an ATM or a point-of-sale merchant machine, be sure to block others from seeing your PIN or other security code or password. If you don’t feel comfortable entering your personal information, don’t do it.

Using these tips can help you keep your personal financial information safe and protect your financial reputation from harm.

Learn more about how BancorpSouth keeps your online account information secure.

If you would like to change your BancorpSouth password, click here. If your account has been compromised in some way, please let us know immediately at 1-888-797-7711.