Header
Advice to CBM Corporate Microsoft Users
Create a unique password
Create a unique password for your Microsoft account
The security of your Microsoft account is important for several reasons. Personal, sensitive information may be associated to your account such as your emails, contacts, and photos. In addition, other services may rely on your email address to verify your identity. If someone gains access to your email, they may be able to take over your other accounts too (like banking and online shopping) by resetting your passwords by email.
Tips for creating a strong and unique password:
- Don’t use a password that is the same or similar to one you use on any other website. A cybercriminal who can break into that website can steal your password from it and use it to steal your Microsoft account.
- Don’t use a single word (e.g. “princess”) or a commonly-used phrase (e.g. “Iloveyou”).
- Do make your password hard to guess even by those who know a lot about you (such as the names and birthdays of your friends and family, your favorite bands, and phrases you like to use).
Watch for Suspicious Activity
Keep your security information up to date
Current security info (like an alternate email address or phone number) helps us to verify your identity if you forget your password or if someone else tries to take over your account. We never use this info to spam you or to try to sell you something—promise!
Keep your security info up to date
Watch for Suspicious Activity
The recent activity page helps you track unusual or suspicious activity. You can see your latest sign-ins and changes to your account. If you see something wrong or unfamiliar, click "This wasn’t me" and we’ll take you through a few steps to change your password and review the security info on your account.
Turn on Two Step Verification
Be careful of suspicious emails and websites
Don't open email messages from unfamiliar senders or email attachments that you don't recognize. Viruses can be attached to email messages and might spread as soon as you open the attachment. It's best not to open an attachment unless you expected to receive it. You should also be careful when downloading apps or other files from the Internet, and make sure you recognize the source.
Keep your operating system, browser, and other software up to date
Keep your operating system, browser, and other software up to date
Most service and app providers release security updates that can help protect your devices. These updates help prevent viruses and other malware attacks by closing possible security holes.If you’re using Windows, in order to receive these updates automatically, turn on Windows Update.
Be careful of suspicious emails and websites
Be careful of suspicious emails and websites
Don't open email messages from unfamiliar senders or email attachments that you don't recognize. Viruses can be attached to email messages and might spread as soon as you open the attachment. It's best not to open an attachment unless you expected to receive it. You should also be careful when downloading apps or other files from the Internet, and make sure you recognize the source.
Install an antivirus program on your computer
Install an antivirus program on your computer
Hackers can steal passwords through malware (malicious software) that's been installed on your computer without your knowledge. For example, sometimes malware is maliciously downloaded with something you do want, like a new screen saver. Take the time to check and clear your computer of viruses or malware before you change your password.