No More Password123: Small Habits for a Safer Internet

Let's face it: internet safety isn't exactly the hottest topic around the virtual watercooler, but maybe it should be.

As we mark Safer Internet Day this February 10th, it's the perfect time to take a step back and look at the small habits that keep our digital lives secure and the big misconceptions that often trip us up.

Just two weeks ago, Data Privacy Day (January 28th) reminded us how vital it is to protect our (personal) information. Today, we broaden that lens to talk about everyday security online, not just the tools we use, but the choices we make.

To help us break it down, we called in two MB.ioneers who live and breathe this stuff: Miguel Freitas (Information Security Manager) and Beatriz Trindade (Data Compliance Officer).

From forgotten accounts and dodgy links to password pain and spring-cleaning routines, they shared real-life advice for building better digital habits.

The Overlooked Habits Putting You at Risk

When it comes to staying safe online, the biggest threats often come from the simplest things, like clicking a sketchy link, reusing a weak password or ignoring your Multi-factor authentication (MFA) settings.

"People often use short, predictable passwords instead of a password manager", said Miguel. "They also skip setting up MFA just because it makes login less convenient, but that small step makes a huge difference."

Meanwhile, Beatriz, brought up something even more invisible: the digital clutter we leave behind.

"Nowadays, people rarely delete old accounts or deactivate unused apps. Those forgotten services still store your data and are easy targets since they're left unmonitored." She also pointed out a common myth: "Privacy isn't just about hiding something. It's about protecting your everyday life, just like you lock your front door."

Want to Level Up Instantly? Do This.

A pressing question in today's connected world is, "What habit can instantly enhance your digital safety?" Below, Miguel and Beatriz will provide practical practice that you can adopt right away to better protect yourself online.

Miguel's checklist is a masterclass in good (online) hygiene:

• Use a password manager
• Enable MFA (or passwordless logins)
• Double-check messages before clicking
• Update all weak passwords

Beatriz had a more philosophical take, too:

"Don't blindly click 'Accept all cookies.' I know it's a pain, but those settings matter. Apps often have permissions turned on by default and we don't even realise."

She further included an essential reminder about software and its history: "Don't keep putting off those software updates."

Hot Take: You Think It's Safe. It's Not.

When it comes to protecting our digital lives, many of us think we know what's safe and what isn't. But, in reality, security isn't always as straightforward as it seems. To shed light on some of the most widespread myths and misunderstandings, we requested their insights regarding common misconceptions about security. Their responses reveal just how easy it is to fall into a false sense of security and why it pays to be more vigilant in today's connected world.

Miguel didn't hold back:

• Public Wi-Fi? Risky.
• QR codes? Can be used for phishing.
• Incognito mode? Doesn't make you invisible.
• PDFs? May contain hidden scripts.

"Just because something looks safe doesn't mean it is."

To this, Beatriz adds: "Don't assume big brands are protecting you. The most invasive settings are often the default […] and no, incognito mode isn't a magic cloak. It only hides your activity from your history, not the internet – your activity can still be tracked."

Spring Clean Your Digital Life

As our devices become increasingly cluttered with unused apps, old files, and forgotten photos, it's important to find effective ways to keep our digital spaces organized. To help readers make the most of their spring cleaning efforts, we asked: How do you tackle digital spring cleaning?

Miguel's ritual is always:

• Check for compromised passwords
• Delete unused accounts
• Uninstall apps you don't need
• Update everything
• Clear browser cookies and sessions
• Revoke old website sessions
• Back up important files

Beatriz's go-to list is:

• Review phone permissions every few months
• Delete cookies and clean your downloads folder
• Audit app privacy settings
• Remove what you don't use
• Don't postpone your software updates

Whose Job Is It Anyway?

As we reach the end of our discussion on practical digital safety and privacy habits, we wanted to explore a broader perspective. Many people assume that safeguarding data and staying vigilant online are responsibilities reserved for specialists, like the Security or Privacy team. But in today's connected world, security is woven into everyone's daily routine, whether we realize it or not. So, to wrap up, we asked a final question: What's something people don't realize is part of everyone's job, not just the Security or Privacy team?

Miguel puts it simply: "Security and privacy are shared responsibilities. Even clicking a suspicious link or oversharing sensitive info can create risk for you, your team, your company, and society", and while Beatriz agrees, she also adds: "It's not about being paranoid but about being intentional. You don't need to be an expert to ask:

• Do I really need this data?
• Should I share this?
• What settings am I accepting by default?"

Make It a Habit, Not a Headache

No one needs to transform into a cybersecurity specialist in a day, but it's time to move beyond thinking "It won't happen to me." Begin with simple steps: update a password, remove an unused app, or select the cookies you really agree with. Remember, our safety online depends on the habits we create, so steer clear of easy passwords like Password123.