Killer Tech Tips

Those asterisks. Here are four not-so-obvious passwords you’re not making use of. They add an additional layer of security to your digital assets. Make sure you use them all!

1. Use a blank Windows password

Using a blank password for your Windows account prevents remote access to your computer over a network or the Internet. By default, computers without passwords can never be accessed over a network. That’s what Microsoft’s guidelines say, according to Digital Inspiration.

So if your computer is physically secure already, there’s nothing preventing you from setting a blank password and preventing intrusions from hackers elsewhere. This tip works in Windows XP, but for other versions please try and let us know!

2. Use two-factor authentication with a verification code

By turning on two factor authentication, you can add an extra layer of authentication to your online accounts. After you have turned on two-factor authentication for your Google account, you receive a text message or a voice call with a unique code that you’ll have to key in before you log in, along with your password.

This is useful because even when someone gains information about your password, he still can’t access your account without this verification code. Many other online services have started providing two factor authentication as well, and you should definitely use this feature! Here’s how you can turn it on for your Google account.

3. Use a master password to secure your saved passwords

If you save passwords for your online accounts in your browser, anyone who has physical access to your computer can take a peek at them from the settings. The way to get around this is to set a master password on your browser.

Use this guide if you’re a Mozilla Firefox user. Once you set a master password, you will be asked for the same every time you need to access your stored passwords. This feature is not available in Chrome, though.

4. Use app-specific passcodes on your phone

If you’re an iPhone user, you may have noticed that some applications let you set app-specific passcodes to prevent that random guy who just got your phone from seeing your information. For instance, after setting a passcode for the Dropbox app, you’ll be asked for the code every time you open the app or switch back from another application.

If you have jailbroken your iPhone or if you use Android, there are a variety of solutions available as well. A search in Google Play will give you plenty of choices.

Do you use any additional passwords to protect your online accounts or computer/smartphone applications?

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