Paypal / General Passwords

**Rawr** · 11-07-09, 08:58 AM

So I'm a super safety computer nut who never clicks a link, constantly scans my computer, and only uses websites that I know and someone still managed to log into my paypal account and steal $300 dollars. Everything was reversed (well still on hold and waiting to be returned), but the fact that it happened is just crazy. So just make sure you have difficult passwords that you change semi frequently, and watch out for those links. (Even though I still have no idea how these people could have gotten my info)

**Potemkine** · 11-08-09, 12:26 PM

accidentally left your PW as saved? I doubt it happened in your case, but the question has to be asked.

**WileECyte** · 11-08-09, 12:42 PM

I had my Paypal account compromised and much like you, I follow a lot of the same practices. Here's what I did to try and prevent it from happening in the future

1) Never store passwords in your browser. It's trivial to snag these passwords using a script. The only passwords I store in my browser are for things that are trivial... random forums where I am just a user...

2) Use a longer more complex password. (My password is 20 characters long, randomly generated)

3) Change your password frequently. I change all my critical passwords every 30 days.

4) Spend $5 and get one of Paypal's Security Keys. You can't login without having the thing to enter the 6-digit code. You can use this for eBay as well, another source of grief for many.

It's a hassle, but I store all my passwords in a secure program that helps me manage them. It reminds me when I have passwords that need changing. It randomly generates new passwords for me, and will automatically type the username/password for me with a simple keystroke.

**Rawr** · 11-09-09, 05:45 PM

Originally Posted by WileECyte

I had my Paypal account compromised and much like you, I follow a lot of the same practices. Here's what I did to try and prevent it from happening in the future

1) Never store passwords in your browser. It's trivial to snag these passwords using a script. The only passwords I store in my browser are for things that are trivial... random forums where I am just a user...

2) Use a longer more complex password. (My password is 20 characters long, randomly generated)

3) Change your password frequently. I change all my critical passwords every 30 days.

4) Spend $5 and get one of Paypal's Security Keys. You can't login without having the thing to enter the 6-digit code. You can use this for eBay as well, another source of grief for many.

It's a hassle, but I store all my passwords in a secure program that helps me manage them. It reminds me when I have passwords that need changing. It randomly generates new passwords for me, and will automatically type the username/password for me with a simple keystroke.

Which program is this, it sounds like a nice idea. I try to change my passwords when I can, but I just forget about all the shit I have access to and I just forget / am just lazy at times. I definitely need to work on it, especially after this.

Oh and no, I never ever save my passwords except for forums.