iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
If you reused a password, change it on every account where it appears—not just the account you first thought of. Start with the email account used to reset other passwords, then secure financial, work, social, and other sensitive accounts. Use a different password for each service, turn on multi-factor authentication (MFA), and check recovery details and signed-in devices if you suspect someone accessed an account.
Why changing it on every account matters
A password exposed on one service can become a way into another. CISA calls password reuse “a leading cause of account compromise”; attackers may try known username-and-password combinations on other services. This practice is known as credential stuffing. CISA’s guidance on password reuse and its identity and access management best practices describe the risk.
Changing the password on only one site does not protect accounts that still accept the old one. Make a list of places where you used it, including accounts you may not use often.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesChange the password everywhere you reused it
- Go to the service directly. Open its official app or type its known website address. Do not follow a password-reset link in an unsolicited email or message.
- Secure your email account first. Email often receives password-reset links for other services, so access to it can help someone take over more accounts. Change its password using the account’s security settings. If you cannot sign in, use the provider’s official recovery process.
- Change the password on every other account where it was used. Prioritize accounts containing financial or sensitive information, and work or social accounts that could be used to reach others.
- Use each provider’s own instructions. Menu names and recovery steps vary. Look in the service’s account or security settings rather than assuming every site has the same sequence of buttons.
Set unique passwords going forward
Give every account its own password. CISA recommends using a password manager to generate and store unique passwords, which makes it easier to avoid reuse. When choosing one, consider whether it works on your devices and how you would recover access to it. CISA’s guidance supports the password-manager approach but does not compare individual products.
#1 Best Overall
- ✅ PROTECT ONLINE ACCOUNTS – A password manager, two-factor security key, and secure communication token in one, OnlyKey can keep your accounts safe even if your computer or a website is compromised. OnlyKey is open source, verified, and trustworthy.
- ✅ UNIVERSALLY SUPPORTED – Works with all websites including Twitter, Facebook, GitHub, and Google. Onlykey supports multiple methods of two-factor authentication including FIDO2 / U2F, Yubico OTP, TOTP, Challenge-response.
- ✅ PORTABLE PROTECTION – Extremely durable, waterproof, and tamper resistant design allows you to take your OnlyKey with you everywhere.
- ✅ PIN PROTECTED – The PIN used to unlock OnlyKey is entered directly on it. This means that if this device is stolen, data remains secure, after 10 failed attempts to unlock all data is securely erased.
- ✅ EASY LOG IN –No need to remember multiple passwords because by plugging OnlyKey to your computer, it automatically inputs your username and password. It works with Windows, Mac OS, Linux, or Chromebook, just press a button to login securely!
Choose long, unique passwords and avoid routine changes just for the sake of changing them; change a password when it may have been exposed or when a service requires it. See CISA’s guidance on strong passwords.
Turn on multi-factor authentication
MFA adds a second sign-in check beyond the password. CISA’s guidance favors physical security keys, followed by authenticator-app MFA; SMS or email codes are fallback options when stronger methods are unavailable. A FIDO authenticator, including a hardware token, can provide phishing-resistant MFA, but only when the service supports it. Check the account’s security settings for supported methods before buying a key. CISA’s MFA guidance explains the options.
Rank #2
- POWERFUL SECURITY KEY: The Security Key C NFC is the essential physical passkey for protecting your digital life from phishing attacks. It ensures only you can access your accounts.
- WORKS WITH 1000+ ACCOUNTS: Compatible with Google, Microsoft, and Apple. A single Security Key C NFC secures 100 of your favorite accounts, including email, password managers, and more.
- FAST & CONVENIENT LOGIN: Plug in your Security Key C NFC via USB-C and tap it, or tap it against your phone (NFC) to authenticate. No batteries, no internet connection, and no extra fees required.
- TRUSTED PASSKEY TECHNOLOGY: Uses the latest passkey standards (FIDO2/WebAuthn & FIDO U2F) but does not support One-Time Passwords. For complex needs, check out the YubiKey 5 Series.
- BUILT TO LAST: Made from tough, waterproof, and crush-resistant materials. Manufactured in Sweden and programmed in the USA with the highest security standards.
| MFA option | What to know |
|---|---|
| Physical security key | CISA’s preferred option among these methods; a FIDO key can be phishing-resistant. The service must support it, and the key must be compatible. |
| Authenticator app | CISA ranks app-based MFA after physical security keys. |
| SMS or email code | Use as a fallback when stronger MFA methods are unavailable, according to CISA. |
If you suspect someone accessed an account
After changing the password, check the provider’s security settings for unfamiliar recovery information and signed-in sessions or devices. Remove recovery email addresses or phone numbers you do not recognize, and sign out unfamiliar sessions if the service offers that control. Follow the provider’s official instructions: recovery and session-management options differ by service.
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchWindows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallQuick Recap
Best Value
- FIDO-ONLY FUNCTIONALITY: Supports FIDO2 (passkeys) and FIDO U2F protocols for passwordless and second-factor authentication. Does not support OTP, TOTP, Smart Card (PIV), or other advanced features - upgrade to YubiKey 5 Series for extended functionality
- SECURE AND CONVENIENT: Passwordless MFA login with the YubiKey Bio authenticator and biometric information using a fingerprint, with a PIN as a fallback. Simply plug in via USB and use your fingerprint to authenticate
- DEVICE & OS COMPATIBILITY: Compatible with Windows, macOS, ChromeOS, and Linux. Works seamlessly with supported services like Google and Microsoft accounts, and major password managers. See the full compatibility list at "Works With YubiKey"
- DURABLE & RELIABLE: Resistant to tampering, water, and crushing. No batteries or network connectivity required, offering dependable authentication without any downtime. Securely manufactured in USA & Sweden
- Yubico Authenticator App - Fingerprint enrollment, passkey management and PIN configuration available via the app app - Upgrade to YubiKey 5 Series to generate one-time-passwords (OTP) via Yubico Authenticator and for advanced compatibility (OATH, PIV)
Rank #3
- Requires 3 "AAA" batteries (included)
- Unit auto-locks for 30 minutes after 5 consecutive incorrect PINs
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
