Fraudsters continue to be creative in the ways they try to access personal and financial information. With data compromises that have occurred in recent years, it's more important than ever to use strong online usernames and passwords.

When a fraudster has usernames or passwords from one account site, they often try using those same credentials to carry out any number of criminal activities on other account sites, ranging from making purchases, running up credit cards, stealing medical data and accessing email accounts that may provide more personal data. 

Make Your Username and Password Strong

• When setting up a new account on any login page, it's important to pay attention to the alerts that tell you the strength of usernames and passwords. Be sure to use the strongest credentials possible.
• Use a complex combination of letters, numbers and symbols as required. Here are some examples:
  • JohnSmith1 is a simple user ID. Use something more complex like Star8mAn5#. 
  • Passwords like 123456 are too simple. Use the site's random password creator when possible. You can also create a complex password of your own such as d0gTreets43#.   
• Use unique credentials for each of your accounts. When fraudsters find credentials that work, they'll try to use them on multiple sites.   
• Change your username and password periodically. Most sites make this really easy to do, including your First Commonwealth Online Banking. Log in today, and click on "Settings." 

 

More Fraud Resources

Our Fraud Prevention Resources is full of resources to help keep your private information, well, private. If at any time you think your confidential information has been compromised, follow this guide for reporting fraud.