Tips For Answering Security Questions

Ask Our Experts: The Best Way To Answer Security Questions

“I’m unsure of how to answer security questions when signing up with a new service online. What’s the best way to do it?”

In a word, lie.

Answers to common security questions such as “What is your mother’s maiden name?” and “Who was your childhood best friend?” can be researched by hackers, especially if they have access to your social media accounts where you routinely post information about yourself.

The challenge with this strategy is that you may not remember the answers you make up.

One way to resolve this issue is to have standard “replacement” answers to certain questions. For example, when asked your mother’s maiden name, you could use the last name of a favorite TV character. When asked your childhood pet’s name, you could use your favorite type of dog.

Another good method is to use a password manager, which allows you to create and store secure passwords as well as record security question answers. There are several secure apps that you can choose between, view this CNET article for more information.

If only password handshakes were a thing!

 

Most smartphone apps now utilize fingerprint scanners and two-factor authentication for added protection. While you should still try to remember your password, fingerprint scanners make signing in easier.

To be extra secure, consider posting less private information on social media and using privacy settings to make such information visible to fewer people.

Please remember Nuvera does not request username and password information by email from our customers.

 

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