Account security: how to avoid blocking?

Account Security: How to Avoid Being Blocked?

In today's digital world, social media accounts, email services, and various online platforms are a crucial part of our everyday lives. However, losing access to an account can lead to serious problems, such as losing valuable data or being cut off from your usual services. In this article, we will discuss the main ways to avoid having your accounts blocked and provide recommendations for strengthening the protection of your personal information.

1. Use Strong Passwords

One of the most important rules is to create a complex and unique password for each service. This way, even if data is leaked from one resource, your other accounts will remain secure.

Password complexity: include uppercase and lowercase letters, digits, and special characters.
Uniqueness: avoid using the same password across multiple sites or apps.
Regular updates: change your passwords at least once every 3–6 months or whenever you suspect a potential leak.
Password managers: use dedicated apps (LastPass, Bitwarden, 1Password, etc.) to generate and securely store your passwords.

2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) enhances your account security by requiring an additional code that is sent to your phone or generated by a special app.

SMS codes: a simple but less secure option (SIM cards can be duplicated or intercepted).
Authenticator apps: Google Authenticator, Authy, etc. — generally safer than SMS.
Hardware tokens/security keys: physical devices (like YubiKey) that offer the highest level of protection.

Most major services (Google, Facebook, Instagram, VK, etc.) offer 2FA in their security settings. Make sure to enable and configure it to keep your data protected.

3. Follow Platform Rules and Policies

Major platforms regularly moderate content and monitor user activity. Violating their rules may lead to a temporary or permanent ban.

Read the terms of use: carefully review the rules so you don't accidentally break the site's policies.
Avoid spam and aggressive advertising: mass messaging or fake activity can trigger a ban.
Be cautious with suspicious links: phishing sites and emails often steal passwords and personal data.

4. Regularly Update Devices and Software

Operating system and application updates often contain fixes for security vulnerabilities that attackers can exploit.

Operating systems: install official updates for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS promptly.
Antivirus and browsers: use trusted antivirus software and keep its database up to date; also ensure your browsers are current.
Content management systems (CMS): if you have a website, be sure to update the CMS and plugins regularly.

5. Use Secure Communication Channels and Connections

In many cases, attackers only need to intercept unencrypted traffic on public networks to gain access to your account.

Public Wi-Fi: use a VPN to encrypt your data; avoid logging into essential accounts through unsecured public networks if possible.
Logging out: always log out of your accounts and clear the cache after using someone else’s device.

6. Be Cautious with Confidential Information

The less critical personal data is publicly accessible, the harder it is for scammers to target you.

Personal details: avoid sharing information (mother’s maiden name, phone number, etc.) that can simplify unauthorized access to your accounts.
Check emails and messages: scammers often impersonate banks or popular services, asking for personal information or passwords.
Third-party apps: periodically review which third-party services have access to your account; remove any you no longer use.

7. Set Up Backups and Recovery Methods

In case your account is blocked or compromised, having a backup plan is crucial to prevent permanent loss of access.

Backup contacts: provide an additional phone number and email address for account recovery.
Recovery codes: services like Google, Facebook, etc. offer special one-time codes for emergency access.
Data archiving: keep copies of important files and conversations (locally or in a secure cloud service).

8. Regular Checks and Monitoring

Monitoring account activity allows you to quickly spot unusual behavior and take action.

Track activity: review activity logs and check authorized devices.
Login notifications: enable alerts for logins from new devices so you can detect unauthorized access attempts.
Check posted content: if you notice posts or messages you did not make, it’s a sign of a compromised account.

Conclusion: account security is an ongoing process. The more carefully you follow best practices (strong passwords, 2FA, software updates, etc.), the less likely you are to encounter a block or a hack. It is better to spend a little time on preventive measures than to restore access to important resources or lose valuable data later.