As an online selling platform managing billions in sales every year, Amazon holds highly sensitive information on millions of customers – your name, address, payment details and purchase history. With rising threats of data breaches, hacking and identity theft, regularly changing your Amazon password is crucial.
As an entrepreneurship consultant dedicated to helping small businesses boost online security, I want to share expert guidance on how to update your Amazon credentials.
Why Changing Your Password Matters
Reusing passwords across multiple accounts remains startlingly common, with [65% of people ages 18-34] admitting to the unsafe practice according to a recent LastPass survey. The same study found that close to 55% of respondents have had an online account compromised.
When it comes to Amazon, the risks of a hacker guessing or phishing your login credentials include:
- Fraudulent purchases made on your payment methods
- Access to saved addresses and full order history
- Potential password reuse compromising email, bank accounts and more
Shoppers surveyed reported [$400,000 worth of fraudulent transactions] on their Amazon accounts over a 12 month period. With account takeovers rising, regularly updating your password is essential.
Step-By-Step Guide to Changing Your Amazon Password
When logged into your Amazon account, changing your credentials is simple. Just follow these steps:
- Click on Account then navigate to Login & Security
- Next to Password, click the Edit button
- Enter your current password, then input and confirm your new password
- Check the box to save changes to Amazon Video PIN as well
- Click Save changes to update credentials
Choosing a Secure Password
When creating your new Amazon password:
- Make it at least 12 characters long
- Use numbers, symbols and uppercase/lowercase letters
- Avoid dictionary words or personal information
- Consider using a password generator to create a random, complex credential
Resetting a Forgotten Amazon Password
If you can no longer remember your password, Amazon makes it easy to reset.
- On the Amazon login page, select Forgot your password?
- Enter your account‘s email or mobile number
- Amazon will text or email a one-time passcode
- Input the passcode then create/confirm your new password
- Click Save changes to complete reset
To avoid getting locked out if you forget credentials, ensure your account email, phone and security questions are up to date.
Enabling Two-Factor Authentication
For optimal security, enable two-factor authentication (2FA). With 2FA, accessing your account requires your password plus an authentication code from your phone or email.
To setup 2FA:
- Go to Account > Login & Security > Edit next to Two-Step Verification Settings
- Select get codes Via Text Message or Via E-mail
- Click Generate Code then input the sent token
- Choose whether to require codes on every login or every x days
With 2FA enabled, even if hackers steal your password, they can‘t access your account!
How Password Managers Boost Security
Frequently changing passwords can become challenging to manage. That‘s where encrypted password manager apps come in handy.
These tools generate ultra-secure credentials for every account, remember them for you, and auto-fill during login. Leading options like LastPass, 1Password and Dashlane also offer:
- Password strength ratings to identify weak credentials
- Built-in password generators
- Secure password sharing between approved users
- Cross-platform syncing across desktop and mobile
Password managers combine ultimate convenience with banking-grade security.
Staying Vigilant Against Phishing Threats
One common tactic for stealing Amazon credentials is through convincing but fraudulent emails requesting you update payment data or reset your password.
Phishing Red Flags
- Suspicious sender address @amzon-support9823.ru
- Typos, grammatical errors, threatening language
- Links actually go somewhere completely different
- Requests sensitive login or financial details
Whenever you receive any communication regarding your Amazon account:
- Independently log into your account to verify messages
- Check the email header details to confirm legitimate sender
- Never click links or call phone numbers provided
Key Takeaways to Protect Your Amazon Account
As cyberattacks grow more prevalent and sophisticated, applying password best practices is crucial:
- Change your Amazon password every 3-6 months
- Create 12+ character passwords using a generator
- Enable two-factor authentication for enhanced security
- Use a password manager to handle credentials securely
- Remain vigilant of phishing attempts on your account
By taking a proactive stance and regularly updating your credentials, you can shop online safely knowing your data stays protected.
