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Getting a security notification is always unexpected and stressful. So when a compromised password warning pops up on your iPhone, it’s completely normal to feel a little unsettled. Let’s go over what this notification means and what steps you should take if you see it.
Contents:
What is a compromised password notification on an iPhone?
Basically, an iPhone notification about a compromised password appears when Apple detects that a password you’ve used on a website or app has been exposed. This notification is sent so that you can change your password immediately to prevent data leaks and protect the account associated with that compromised password.
How was your password compromised?
It’s difficult to tell exactly how one of your passwords got compromised, as there are so many ways. Cybercriminals use all sorts of methods—like phishing, credential stuffing, social engineering, and brute-force attacks—to try to steal your passwords. So, if one of your passwords has been compromised, it may have been due to one of these tactics. It could also be that your password wasn’t strong enough to begin with, or that it was leaked in a data breach of a company whose services you use.
How does Apple know your password is compromised?
Apple detects compromised passwords through an iCloud Keychain feature that checks your saved passwords against a database of known data breaches. When a breach occurs, Apple compares your passwords to this database to determine if any have been exposed. If a match is found, Apple notifies you that your password has been compromised.
How to find compromised passwords on your iPhone
To find compromised passwords on your iPhone, just go to “Settings” and then “Passwords.” Once you’re there, look for any alerts with a red triangle or under “Security Recommendations.” If any of your saved passwords are compromised, you’ll get a notification, and Apple will suggest updating them for better security.
How to fix a compromised password
If you’ve received a compromised password notification on your iPhone, you must act immediately. Here’s what you should do:
Change your password to a stronger one—aim for at least 18 characters, with a mix of letters, numbers, and special characters.
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for extra protection on your account.
Check other accounts where you’ve used the same password for any suspicious activity, and update those passwords too.
Start using a password manager to securely store and manage your passwords.
How to stop your iPhone from sending compromised password notifications
To stop your iPhone from sending compromised password notifications, just follow these steps:
Open the “Settings” app.
Scroll down and tap on “Passwords.”
Click on “Security Recommendations” at the top.
Turn off “Detect Compromised Passwords.”
How to enhance the security of your passwords and accounts
Online threats can strike at any time, so it’s crucial to stay vigilant and use the right tools to protect your data. One of the most effective ways to do that is with a password manager. You might be thinking, “But iPhones come with a built-in password manager, right?” And while using it is definitely better than nothing, it doesn’t offer the same level of security as some third-party options like NordPass.
NordPass is a top-tier password manager that’s not only easy to use but also available across all major platforms and browsers, including iOS. Unlike Apple’s built-in password manager, NordPass uses a more advanced encryption algorithm (XChaCha20) to keep your data safe. It can also generate strong passwords on the spot and sync your passwords across all your devices. Plus, it offers much more than just password management. With features like Data Breach Scanner, Password Health, and Email Masking, NordPass goes the extra mile to enhance your online security.
So, if you’re serious about protecting your passwords, give NordPass a try and see how it can improve your online experience.