Keep your Christmas lights bright and your passwords strong. Use unique passwords for different accounts to keep fraudsters at bay.

Creating and saving safe passwords is essential for protecting your online accounts, especially during the busy Christmas season. Here are some tips to help you create strong passwords and keep them secure…

Use a Mix of Characters. Combine uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers and special characters (e.g., !, @, #, $) to make your password more complex

Aim for at least 12 characters. Longer passwords are harder to crack

Steer clear of easily guessable information like your name, birthdate or common words. Instead, use a random combination of words or a passphrase

Use Unique Passwords for Each Account. This way, if one account is compromised, your other accounts remain secure

A reputable password manager can generate, store and autofill your passwords securely. This way, you only need to remember one master password

Whenever possible, add an extra layer of security by enabling 2FA. This typically involves receiving a code on your phone or email that you must enter along with your password

Change your passwords periodically to reduce the risk of them being compromised

By following these tips, you can enhance your online security and enjoy a safer holiday season. 

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Police Scotland's North East Division covers rural and urban areas in Moray, Aberdeenshire and Aberdeen City.  The division has five territorial command areas which have their own dedicated Area Commander, who is responsible for the daily policing function.  Each command area is served by a number of community policing teams whose activities are built around the needs of the local community.  These teams respond to local calls and look for long term solutions to key issues.  They are assisted by the division's Crime Reduction Unit who deliver against Force and local priorities in a number of areas, including physical and social crime prevention, supporting and enhancing community engagement and creating and sustaining strong and effective partnership working.