6 places you should never store your password

Securing your online accounts with strong, unique passwords is key to protecting yourself, but those passwords won't help much if they're stored somewhere criminals can easily access.

From a cluttered inbox to shared cloud storage folders you might have forgotten about, we reveal where you need to avoid storing your passwords – and where to keep them instead.

If you'd prefer 1-2-1 technical advice from Which? experts, including advice on online security and scams, you can join Which? Tech Support. Our friendly team is there to chat on the phone or by email as often as you need. Find out more about the support on offer. 

Source: Which? (31 Jul 2026) 

How to stop scam pop-ups on Windows

Using urgent messages, fake alerts and flashing warnings, scam pop-ups are designed to cause panic and persuade you into handing over personal information or downloading malicious software.

We share three simple steps to deal with scam pop-ups safely, along with quick fixes to greatly reduce your chances of seeing them again. Plus, other measures you can take to beef up your computer's security. 

Source: Which? (06 Aug 2026) 

Car Key Burglaries & Keyless Car Theft in Bexley Borough

Residents are being warned about a rise in car key burglaries and keyless car thefts in Bexley.

In recent weeks, there have been a number of incidents where criminals have targeted homes to steal car keys before driving off in the vehicles parked on driveways. These thefts are believed to be the work of organised crime gangs, and the Metropolitan Police are working hard to catch those responsible.

 

Here's what you can do to help protect yourself:

• Make it harder for burglars: Standard locks on UPVC and composite doors can be snapped very easily, allowing thieves entry in seconds. Consider upgrading to anti-snap locks. They're a significant deterrent and can significantly slow down or even prevent a break-in.
• Invest in CCTV: While not as effective as anti-snap locks, CCTV can deter criminals and capture suspicious activity.
• Secure your car keys: Don't leave them in plain sight near windows or letterboxes. Consider a key safe for added security.

Keyless Car Thefts:

If your car has a keyless entry system, check if there's a way to disable the signal when the car is locked. More importantly, use a combination of the following:

• Steering lock: A visible deterrent like a Disklok steering lock makes it much harder for thieves to steal your car.
• Faraday cage: Keep your car keys in a metal container, pouch, or a dedicated Faraday cage to block the signal and prevent relay attacks. Even a metal biscuit tin can work!

Summary of our advice:

• Download our advice (links below) for a full breakdown of these recommendations.
• Consider joining the Bexley Borough Neighbourhood Watch scheme. With over 1,700 members, you'll receive crime alerts and updates directly to your device. Your data is confidential and will never be shared with third parties.

By working together, we can make Bexley a less attractive target for these criminals.

For more information:

• https://bexleywatch.blogspot.com/2022/10/crime-prevention-security-advice.html
• https://bexleywatch.blogspot.com/2024/06/vehicle-crime-alert.html
• Local Borough locksmiths https://www.locksmiths.co.uk/find-a-locksmith/?location=Bexley%2C+UK&distance=30&service=2589&company=&form_access_hidden_field=
• The Era Fortress Door Cylinder (source - pdf)
  

Home Security Checklist (pdf)

• https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Bs_5Nxk2nXp9RotRuqkPt7SNjEtOXAUI/view

Home Security (pdf)

• https://www.independentage.org/sites/default/files/2021-01/Advice-guide-Home-security_0.pdf
• Other UK info news https://kenilworthnwatch.com/2024/11/24/car-key-burglaries-keyless-car-theft-kenilworth/

Keeping Your Shed or Garage Safe and Secure: Don't Be an Easy Target

Many people underestimate the importance of shed and garage security. Unlike our homes, these outbuildings often get secured with minimal effort, making them prime targets for opportunistic thieves. But what they might not realize is that a break-in at your shed can be a stepping stone to a bigger crime – giving them the tools they need to break into your house!

The First Steps to Shed and Outbuilding Security:

• Insurance Check: Before you invest in security measures, make sure your insurance covers the contents of your shed or outbuilding in case of theft.
• Think Like a Thief: Walk around your shed and see how easy it would be to break in. Are the hinges flimsy? Is the lock easily defeated? Windows a weak point? Address these vulnerabilities first. Invest in a strong padlock with no exposed screws, and consider reinforcing the door hinges. Secure any windows with wire mesh or security grills.

Deterring Theft with Alarms and Smart Practices:

• Silent Guardian, Alarming Friend: A discreet, battery-operated shed alarm can be a great deterrent. Activated by movement or door contact, these alarms pack a punch with loud sirens, scaring off would-be thieves.
• Lock it Up, Hide it Away, Mark it Down: Make it difficult for thieves to steal by securing your belongings. Lock tools away in a strong chest or box, or chain them to a secure anchor. Bicycles should be chained to the ground or a secure stand within the locked shed. Check out Sold Secure (https://www.soldsecure.com/approved-product-search) for top-rated ground anchors and other locking solutions.
• Out of Sight, Out of Mind: Draping an old sheet or blanket over your bike or lawnmower can deter theft by keeping them hidden from view.
• Simple Security Habits: This might seem obvious, but always keep your shed or garage door locked when not in use, and keep the door closed even when you are around.

Taking Extra Precautions: Property Marking and Registration:

• Mark Your Territory: Property marking discourages theft and increases your chances of recovering stolen items. Paint your name or postcode on valuable tools, or consider using a forensic marking solution.
• Register Your Valuables: Immobilise (https://www.immobilise.com/help/reportingitemslostorstolen) allows you to register items with serial numbers, making them easier to track down if stolen.

Seeking Professional Help:

A professional locksmith from the Master Locksmiths Association (https://www.locksmiths.co.uk/) can provide invaluable advice on the most effective security measures for your shed and garage door. They can even handle installation for you. Many locksmiths offer comprehensive home security surveys, helping you identify weak points throughout your property.

By following these tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of theft from your shed or garage. Remember, a little effort goes a long way in protecting your valuable belongings and keeping your home safe.

The top five most common items stolen from sheds:

1. Bikes
2. Mowers
3. Sports equipment
4. Power tools
5. Garden tools

Lock Down Your Digital Life: Free Forever Password Management with Bitwarden and Aegis

Are you tired of juggling countless passwords and worrying about cyber threats? It's time to take control of your online security without breaking the bank. This guide will show you how to create an impenetrable digital fortress using two free, powerful tools: Bitwarden and Aegis OTP.

Why Bitwarden and Aegis?

• Bitwarden: This open-source password manager offers unlimited password storage, secure sharing, and cross-platform compatibility. Best of all, it's completely free!
• Aegis OTP: A simple, effective app that generates six-digit one-time passcodes (OTP) for added security. Also free.

Together, they form a formidable duo that can protect your sensitive information from prying eyes.

How it Works:

1. Create a Strong Bitwarden Master Password: This is the key to your digital kingdom. Make it long, complex, and unique.
2. Store All Your Passwords in Bitwarden: From email to banking, every account deserves a strong, unique password. Let Bitwarden generate and store them securely.
3. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): For an extra layer of protection, use Aegis to generate OTPs for your accounts that support 2FA.
4. Sync Bitwarden Across Devices: Access your passwords effortlessly on your computer, smartphone, and tablet.

Going Premium: When to Consider Paying

While the free versions of Bitwarden and Aegis are excellent, you might consider upgrading to Bitwarden Premium for these additional benefits:

• Advanced Security Features: Password health reports, breach monitoring, and emergency access.
• Enhanced Convenience: Biometric authentication, one-click password filling, and family sharing.

If you decide to pay for Bitwarden Premium, you no longer need Aegis, as Bitwarden's built-in authenticator provides similar functionality.

Tips for Maximum Security:

• Regular Password Audits: Use Bitwarden's features to identify weak or reused passwords.
• Enable Dark Web Monitoring: Stay informed about potential data breaches.
• Keep Your Software Updated: Ensure both Bitwarden and Aegis have the latest security patches.
• Beware of Phishing Attacks: Be cautious of suspicious emails and links.

By combining the power of Bitwarden and Aegis, you can significantly enhance your online security without spending a dime. Take control of your digital life today and enjoy peace of mind knowing your valuable information is protected.

Keywords: Bitwarden, Aegis OTP, password manager, two-factor authentication, online security, data protection, free tools, cyber security.

(GDPR) Visit https://bitwarden.com/pricing/, https://getaegis.app/ (Android only)

[Bitwarden] How I Manage All My Passwords (for FREE!) (video) 👍

Bitwarden Tutorial | The Full Beginners Guide (video)

Bitwarden 101: How to use the Bitwarden Password Manager (video)

Aegis 2FA App (video) 👍

The Best Authenticator Apps for iPhone and Android

Check if your email address is in a data breach > https://haveibeenpwned.com/

Fortress on Four Wheels: Top Security Tips for Your Land Rover

Land Rovers, being luxury SUVs, are unfortunately attractive targets for thieves. Here are some steps you can take to deter them and improve your Land Rover's security:

Basic precautions:

• Always lock your car and double-check that it's locked using the key fob or by pulling on the handle.
• Park in well-lit areas at night and if possible, in a garage.
• Consider using a steering wheel lock or wheel clamp as a visible deterrent.

Key security:

• Land Rover key fobs use Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology that makes them harder to hack, but it's still wise to be cautious.
• Invest in a faraday pouch to block the signal from your key fob when not in use. This prevents relay attacks where thieves amplify the fob's signal to unlock the car from a distance.
• Avoid storing your keys near windows or doors where thieves can potentially scan for the signal.

Security upgrades:

• Land Rover offers a security upgrade for most vehicles purchased after 2018. Check with your dealership to see if yours is eligible.
• Consider installing a tracking device. GPS trackers can alert you if your car is moved and help authorities locate it in case of theft.
• Ghost immobilisers are another effective option. These prevent the engine from starting even if a thief bypasses the lock.

Land Rover features:

• Land Rover InControl Remote app allows you to see your car's location and even activate Guardian Mode for extra security.
• Some Land Rovers come with Secure Tracker which can notify you and the Stolen Vehicle Tracking Centre if your car is stolen.

By following these tips, you can make your Land Rover a less attractive target for thieves and increase your chances of recovering it if stolen.

Beyond Phishing: Understanding the Recent Account Compromises

 

#Cybersecurity #YouTubeChannel #CybersecurityInsights

Here are some key aspects of securing your browsing experience:

Browser Security:

• Keep your browser and extensions updated: This ensures you have the latest security patches and features.
• Consider a secure browser: Explore options like Firefox, Brave, or Tor (for enhanced anonymity). These offer features like built-in tracking protection and blocking malicious websites.
• Enable security features: Utilise features like "HTTPS-Only Mode" or "Enhanced Safe Browsing" for additional protection against insecure connections and harmful content.

Security Practices:

• Beware of phishing attacks: Don't click on suspicious links or download attachments from unknown sources. Be cautious of emails urging immediate action or claiming to be from legitimate institutions.
• Use strong passwords and 2FA: Employ complex and unique passwords for each account, and enable two-factor authentication wherever available.
• Be mindful of public Wi-Fi: Avoid sensitive activities like online banking or entering passwords while connected to public Wi-Fi networks. Consider using a VPN for added security.
• Be cautious with online forms and downloads: Don't provide personal information on unverified websites. Only download software from trusted sources and be wary of free downloads with hidden costs or malware.

Additional Tips:

• Use an ad blocker: This can reduce the risk of encountering malicious ads that might contain malware.
• Clear browsing data regularly: This helps protect your privacy and improve browser performance.
• Stay informed: Keep yourself updated on current cybersecurity threats and best practices.

By following these tips, you can significantly enhance your online browsing security and minimise the risk of online threats.

Safeguard Your Devices: Comprehensive Security for Your Router and Wi-Fi

Your home Wi-Fi network acts as a gateway to the vast internet, and just like your home, you want to keep it secure. Here are some steps you can take to enhance your router and Wi-Fi security:

Securing your Router:

• Change default credentials: Routers come with pre-set usernames and passwords for accessing their settings. These are often generic and easily guessable by attackers. Change them to strong, unique combinations that you don't use elsewhere.
• Enable Wi-Fi encryption: This scrambles the data transmitted over your network, making it unreadable to anyone eavesdropping. Use WPA2 or, if your router supports it, the newer and more secure WPA3 standard. Avoid the outdated WEP encryption, which is easily cracked.
• Turn off guest network (if not in use): Guest networks are convenient for visitors, but if you don't use them regularly, consider disabling them to minimize potential vulnerabilities.
• Disable remote access (if not needed): This feature allows you to manage your router from anywhere on the internet. If you don't use it, disable it to close a potential entry point for attackers.
• Keep your router firmware updated: Just like software updates for your devices, firmware updates for your router often contain security patches. Regularly check for and install updates from your router manufacturer's website.

Securing your Wi-Fi Network:

• Choose a strong Wi-Fi name (SSID): Avoid using your home address or personal information in your network name. Keep it simple and unique.
• Use a strong Wi-Fi password: Create a complex password that combines upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using dictionary words or easily guessable information. Consider using a password manager to generate and store strong passwords for all your devices.
• Limit connected devices: Only allow authorized devices to connect to your network. Check the list of connected devices in your router settings and remove any unknown or unauthorised ones.
• Enable your router's firewall: This acts as a barrier, filtering incoming and outgoing traffic and helping to block malicious attempts.
• Consider using a VPN for added security: A Virtual Private Network encrypts your internet traffic, making it more secure, especially when using public Wi-Fi networks.

Additional Tips:

• Be cautious with public Wi-Fi: Avoid accessing sensitive information or performing online transactions on public Wi-Fi networks as they are inherently less secure.
• Educate your family: If you share your Wi-Fi network with family members, make them aware of the importance of strong passwords and safe browsing habits.

By following these steps, you can significantly improve your router and Wi-Fi security, protecting your devices and data from unauthorised access and online threats. Remember, security is an ongoing process, so stay informed and continue to update your devices and practice safe online habits.

Quad9 is a not-for-profit organization that operates a global public recursive DNS resolver, aiming to protect users from malware and phishing.

Here's a summary of Quad9:

• Mission: To improve the privacy and cybersecurity of internet users.
• Service: Free, public DNS resolver that blocks malicious domains and protects users from malware, phishing, and other online threats.
• Benefits:
  • Enhanced security and privacy for internet users
  • Reduced risk of malware infections and phishing attacks
  • Improved overall internet experience
• How it works: When you use Quad9 as your DNS resolver, it intercepts your DNS requests and checks them against a constantly updated blocklist of malicious domains. If a match is found, the request is blocked, and you are prevented from accessing the harmful website.

Overall, Quad9 is a valuable resource for anyone who wants to improve their online security and privacy. It is a free and easy-to-use service that can help to protect you from a wide range of online threats.

For more information, visit Quad9 and DMARC free cybercrime protection.

Stay Safe and Informed with FREE Webinars from SAFE by CST!

Protecting yourself and your community is easier than ever. SAFE by CST offers a diverse range of FREE webinars covering essential topics on safety and security.

Here's a quick look at our upcoming events:

Safeguarding:

• Feb 7th: Countering Radicalisation & Changing Mindsets
• Mar 7th: Conflict Management
• Apr 3rd: Safeguarding Awareness (NEW!)

School Security:

• Feb 20th: Basic Security with London MOPAC
• Apr 11th: School Security (NEW!)

Online Safety:

• Feb 26th: Online Safety for Beginners (NEW!)

Other Important Topics:

• Feb 15th: Women's Safety
• Feb 22nd: Exploring the Far Right
• Mar 13th: Incels: Villains or Victims?
• Mar 21st: Hostile Reconnaissance
• Apr 18th: Past Terror Attacks - Lessons Learned (Updated!)

Don't miss out! Register for all our webinars here: [link to SAFE by CST Zoom Hub].

Share this information! Help keep your community safe by spreading the word about these valuable resources.

Want to host your own event? Contact SAFE by CST today! (via email)

Stay informed, stay safe, and join us for these essential webinars!

Useful handy Home Security guide - Protecting your property

According to Neighbourhood Watch, properties with the WIDE security combination ‑ Window locks, Indoor lights on a timer, Door double or deadlocks and External lights on a timer or sensor - are nearly 50 times more protected from burglary than those with no security. 

Useful checklist of things to think about. (pdf)

What would a burglar see if they looked at your home? Take some time to walk round your home and use this checklist to think about how secure the doors and windows are, and identify any other potential issues. Any box you tick could be a security risk. If you need help with this, ask your family or friends – or see our suggestions at the end of this chapter.

We all want to feel that our home is secure. Although burglary isn't very common, it's only sensible to take precautions. Just a few simple security measures can reduce your risk of crime and give you peace of mind.

This guide (pdf) looks at simple and effective ways to improve your home security. It outlines:

• how to check for security risks
• where you can get help
• ways to protect your property
• advice if you're going away
• what to do if you've been burgled.

The charity Independent Age provides a Home Security guide in both audio and PDF format with guidance for older people on simple and effective measures they can implement to protect their homes from intruders.

Invitation to security events from SAFE by CST

A series of free one-hour security webinars delivered by CST. These topics can also be delivered in-person.

• Thursday 16^th – Friday 17^th February
  Live “Security Awareness Seminar” at Buckfast Abbey, Devon
  Click here to register: Security Awareness Seminar | Tickets | Online Shop | Buckfast

• 23^rd February at 7pm, Online security (How to protect yourself and your community from online threats):
  Registration: https://tinyurl.com/3b4nvkr9
  
  
• 2^nd March at 7pm, Organising security - with update on Martyn's Law (The likely implications of Martyn's Law, how to develop a security plan and crisis management):
  Registration: https://tinyurl.com/24tpyddt
• 18^th March at 2pm, Basic security (An introduction to security for places of worship and faith communities:
  Registration: https://tinyurl.com/3n2emf24
• 21^st March at 7pm, Exploring the Far Right (An exploration of the current state of the far right in the UK):
  Registration: https://tinyurl.com/2r68j9ww
• 4^th April at 2pm, Hostile reconnaissance (Being able to identify behaviour which is unusual or out of the ordinary (suspicious) may save lives):
  Registration: https://tinyurl.com/56eurjnm

Some useful links and documents can be found by scanning our new Linktree:

Also, by following this link: https://linktr.ee/SAFE_CST.

In the meantime, if we can be of any help, please contact us on enquiries@safe.cst.org.uk.

Also – check out our website for more information, and registration details as new webinars are released, at safe.cst.org.uk and please follow us on:

LinkedIn: safe-by-cst
Twitter: @SAFE_CST

https://cst.org.uk/about-cst/safe-security-advice-for-everyone