Our phones and online accounts can help us stay safe and connected. Using our phone and account security settings and choosing strong passwords can help us use devices safely, and keep our personal information private. Here are 3 ways you can increase your device and password security.

This video uses an iPhone, but the steps are very similar on other phones.

Step 1

Add a passcode to your phone.

To do this,

1. Open your phone’s settings.
2. Choose “FACE ID & Passcode”
3. Choose “turn passcode on” or “change passcode” if you want to update your current passcode.
4. For extra security, you might choose to set up your face ID or touch ID. You can also change how long it takes your phone screen to lock itself, for example, after 30 seconds, or 5 minutes. To do this, go into your phone’s settings. Choose “display and brightness”, then “auto lock”. This will bring you to the menu where you can make these changes.

Step 2

update and strengthen your account passwords. Think of where you use passwords in your tech and online presence– this might include social media, email, or cloud accounts.

1. The strongest passwords are long- The recommended length for a secure password is 12-15 characters minimum. You can keep it simple by creating a short sentence that’s easy for you to remember, but difficult for others to guess, like summerismyfavouriteseason.
2. For added strength, or if a website requires it, you can add numbers and symbols to the mix.
3. Choose different passwords for each account, so if someone gains access to one account, they won’t gain access to all of them.

Step 3

adjust your password settings for extra security.

1. 1. Unselect “remember my password.” If someone is monitoring or has access to your device, they might be able to view your accounts and information more easily. You can make this change at most login pages- look for a checkbox to untick. (*show on screen- uncheck save my password)
   2. Add two step-verification where possible. This adds extra security by sending a log-in code to your email or phone to make sure it’s you logging in to your accounts. It may also ask you a personal question, like your mother’s maiden name.** On instagram, for example, you can make this change by opening your account menu, choosing settings, then security. In “two factor authentication”, turn on “text message” after confirming the right phone number is linked. You can also find recovery codes in “additional methods” in case you can’t access your phone or email- if you use these, remember to store them in a safe place, and not on a device you suspect is being monitored.

If you’re using an iPhone, you may also want to block this contact on facetime or social media accounts like Facebook and Instagram.

When you block a phone number, calls and messages won’t be sent or received. But, you still might get voicemails from this user- it just won’t notify you that you’ve received a voicemail. The person you block will not be notified that they were blocked. If you block someone on social media, you won’t be able to see their posts. You may also lose access to conversations in private and direct messages, and any comments or posts they’ve made on your page. You may want to preserve evidence before changing your settings.

Before making changes to your password settings, think through potential safety risks. Consider if your device is being monitored by an abuser and whether violence will escalate if you make changes. If you have the option, consider using a different device or connect with an anti-violence worker who can help you come up with a safety plan.

It’s possible to use technology safely. You don’t have to give up your devices or online presence if tech-facilitated violence is happening to you. It is not your fault. You are not alone. Visit BCSTH.ca to find a safe confidential support service in your community.