In light of the recent “Linus Tech Tips” YouTube channel hacking incident, many people are growing concerned about whether their YouTube accounts are safe. If you use YouTube and are going through the same thought process, don’t worry.
This article will help you understand the security measures that YouTube has in place and what you can do to keep your account safe.
Strong Passwords
The first step to keeping your YouTube account secure is to choose a strong password. A strong password is at least eight characters long.
It must include a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols and is not easy to guess. Avoid using common phrases or personal information that someone could easily guess, like your birthdate or pet’s name.
Two-Factor Authentication
Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to your account by requiring you to enter a code in addition to your password. This code is usually sent to your phone and email.
To enable two-factor authentication on your YouTube account, go to your account settings and click on “Security.” From there, you can set up two-factor authentication and choose whether to receive codes via text or email.
Beware of Phishing Scams
Phishing is a common tactic that scammers use to steal personal information, including login credentials. They might send you an email or message that looks like it’s from YouTube, asking you to click on a link and enter your password.
These messages often look official and urgent but are fake. If you receive an email or message that seems suspicious, don’t click on any links or enter any personal information. Instead, go directly to the YouTube website and log in to your account.
Be Careful with Third-Party Apps
Third-party apps are applications or services YouTube does not create but can still interact with your account. If you use third-party apps, make sure they are from a reputable source and only have access to the permissions they need.
For example, if an app asks for access to your YouTube account, but you don’t see a reason for it, don’t grant permission. Similarly, if you stop using a third-party app, revoke its access to your account.
Regularly Check Your Account Activity
It’s a good idea to regularly check your account activity to ensure no unauthorized logins or suspicious activity. YouTube makes this easy by providing an activity log that shows all the activity on your account, including logins, uploads, and comments.
To access your activity log, go to your account settings and click on “Overview.” From there, you can see a summary of your account activity or click “View full activity” for more details.
Report Suspicious Activity
If you notice any strange or suspicious activity on your YouTube account, such as any unauthorized login or settings changes, report them immediately.
To report suspicious activity, go to your account settings and click on “Help.” From there, you can contact YouTube support and explain the issue. They will investigate the problem and take action if necessary.
Are YouTube Accounts Secure?: Conclusion
YouTube takes the security of its users’ accounts seriously and provides several measures to keep your account secure. You must choose a strong password and enable two-factor authentication.
Apart from that, you must remain careful with third-party apps. Regularly check your account activity, and report any suspicious activity. This way, you can help keep your YouTube account safe. Remember, your online security is important, and it’s up to you to take the necessary steps to protect yourself.
