When was the last time you changed your password?
If you’re like most people, it’s probably been a while. Here’s the thing: in 2024, weak passwords were behind 36% of all account hacks across the Asia Pacific, according to Sumsub’s recent Identity Fraud report. That’s roughly one in every three cases, highlighting how common it is.
That means your coffee shop loyalty app, your online shopping accounts, and even your e-wallet could all be easy targets for potential fraudsters.
In today’s world where everything happens online, a simple password isn’t just risky—it could cost you your hard-earned money, your privacy, and a lot of headaches you didn’t sign up for.
The good news? Keeping your digital life secure doesn’t have to be complicated. Small changes can make a big difference; it all starts with leveling up your password game. This article breaks down the mistakes to avoid; how to build unbreakable, strong passwords; and how to stay one step ahead of hackers without needing a degree in cybersecurity.
Why a Good Password is Your First Line of Defense
Today’s scammers aren’t just targeting banks or big companies anymore. Instead, many are after everyday people like yourself.
Hackers who’ve cracked your password can easily scour your highly valuable profiles, like your shopping accounts Lazada or Shopee account where you’ve linked your Atome Card. They could change settings and drain your money quickly.
This isn’t meant to scare you. Instead, it’s to help you realize that password security is always worth considering; it isn’t something to set and forget. It’s worth spending a few minutes to think of a secure and unbreakable password when it inevitably comes time to change. Those few minutes will save you hours of headaches down the line.
4 Mistakes to Avoid for a Good Password
Most people don’t realize just how easy they make it for hackers to break in through passwords. Here are the biggest password mistakes you need to avoid (or might already be making) and how to fix them.
1. Using one word, rather than a phrase
Single-word passwords are too straightforward and can easily be guessed if the hacker does their research about you. Instead of using something simple like “sunflower,” try a full phrase—something only you would think of.
Example: “CoffeeAt6AMIsLife!” or “MangoRiceIsSuperior99”
Longer = stronger.
2. No variations in character
Numbers, punctuation marks, and symbols turn dictionary words into an even more complicated string of characters that can easily deter most scammers from breaking into your account. Try sprinkling a few capital letters, numbers, and symbols to really catch scammers off guard with your personal security.
Example: “B3ach$unset_Tour”
The weirder it looks, the harder it is to crack.
3. Using common words or phrases
Sure, picking something easy to remember — like “password123” or “iloveyou” — feels convenient. But here’s the reality: common words and phrases are the first thing hackers test when trying to break into your accounts.
Cybercriminals today don’t sit around guessing manually. Instead, they use automated programs that can test millions of common passwords per second.
If your password sounds like something that could appear on a T-shirt, a greeting card, or a meme… it’s probably too easy to crack.
4. Neglecting two-factor authorization (2FA)
As the name suggests, 2FA adds a layer of protection for your account. This typically includes biometric authentication, such as Apple’s Face ID regular fingerprint verification, or the use of one-time passwords (OTPs). Enable this layer of authentication as much as possible, so the strength of your security doesn’t rely entirely on your password.
The Real Cost of a Weak Password
If you’re using your Atome Card to split your bills into easy installments, you’re already being smart about your finances. Pair it with smart password habits, and you’ll keep your financial future (and your peace of mind) even more secure, whether you’re using your Atome Card to shop internationally or at your favorite local eCommerce.
Across the Asia Pacific, users lost millions to identity fraud in 2024 alone—and most of those cases started with something simple, like a guessed password or a successful phishing attempt.
Sumsub reported that the Philippines even saw a 2.77% rise in fraud cases — proof that no one is really “too small” to be a target anymore.
Here’s what could happen if your password is weak:
- Money stolen from your e-wallet or digital bank
- Unauthorized purchases using your Atome Card or other paylater services
- Hackers opening loans or credit lines under your name
- Long, stressful disputes just to recover your accounts
- Damage to your credit standing — and your financial future
All because of one password. That’s why securing your digital life is just as important as making smart spending choices — like using your Atome Card to manage your purchases wisely and safely.
Avoid Weak Passwords to Start Protecting Your Account Today
Your password is more than just a login. It’s your first line of defense.
In a world where scams, deepfakes, and digital fraud are getting smarter, protecting your personal data is no longer optional. It’s part of being financially smart and digitally empowered.
And that’s exactly what we believe at Atome. If you’ve experienced an unauthorized transaction on your account, you can contact us by heading to the Me tab in your Atome app, and then tapping Contact Us under the Support subheading.
When you make smarter money moves, like using your Atome Card to split big payments safely or protecting your account with strong passwords, you’re not just spending wisely. You’re owning your future.
