How To: Technology 101

Learn How to Easily Secure Your Apple ID

Published on: October 1st, 2020

When it comes to protecting your Apple ID, it’s better to be safe than sorry. You use this same account across multiple platforms, including FaceTime, iTunes, iMessage, and the App Store. Plus, your Apple ID account holds a fair amount of personal information and payment methods you wouldn’t want ending up in the wrong hands. If you’re wondering if you’re taking the right security measures, keep reading as we cover three easy ways you can secure your Apple ID.

3 Simple Ways to Secure Your Apple ID 

As an Apple user, there are some recommended precautions you can take right away to secure your account. By taking advantage of these three security guidelines, you can better safeguard your personal information. 

1. Create a Strong Password & Security Questions

Nowadays, most websites require you to have a strong password, and Apple is no exception. According to Apple, your password must contain at least eight characters and implement lower and uppercase letters, and a minimum of one number. To strengthen your password even more, add extra characters, numerals, and symbols, such as asterisks and exclamation marks.

Apple also incorporates security questions as an extra method to safeguard your account details. These questions should be relatively easy for you to remember but difficult for others to figure out. Combined with other identifying material, a strong security question helps Apple establish your identity when you contact their support staff or need to verify yourself online. You can select or change your security questions from your Apple ID account page.

2. Set Up Two-Factor Authentication

Two-factor authentication (2FA) provides an enhanced security level for your Apple ID when you log into an unrecognized or new device. With 2FA set up, you’re the only user who can access your account, even if your password is exposed or compromised. As you sign into a device for the first time, you’ll be prompted to enter the six-digit code displayed on your trusted device of choice. When you enter the correct passcode, Apple will verify your identity and grant you access. To set up 2FA on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch, you must be running on iOS 9 or higher. Setting up on a Mac requires OS X El Capitan or later versions.

3. Avoid Phishing Schemes

Phishing is a form of identity theft that website hackers use to steal your data. This can include personal info, such as your Apple ID login credentials and credit card information. Often, scammers will pose as a trusted source and trick you into opening an email or text with a fraudulent link. By submitting your information, hackers can use your identity, money, and, in worse cases, sell your personal information to other cybercriminals.

To avoid phishing, never open suspicious emails or messages. If you come across a website appearing fake or misleading, don’t type in any personal info. Below are some additional tips you can follow to steer clear of Apple ID phishing scams:

• Learn ways to identify authentic Apple emails regarding your iTunes or App Store purchases.
• When using a public computer, always sign out when your session is complete to prevent other people from accessing your account.
• If you abandon an email address or phone number associated with your Apple ID, be sure to update your Apple ID with current information as soon as possible.
• Take the same precautions with your Apple Pay account as you do with other credit card transactions.
• Keep your Apple ID passwords and verification codes away from others. Apple will never request this information when providing support. 

Although we’ve covered some of the more widely used security tips, Apple offers additional resources to maximize your security and privacy. Hacking and phishing scams are serious and should never be taken lightly. Be sure to stay up to date with the latest features and updates to help your account remain safe. If you’re looking for more ways to boost security, contact your nearest Computer Troubleshooters office. Our experts can customize an individualized plan to keep your data and network secure.