Account Security
Learn how to secure your ShopKatalog account and protect your business
Securing Your Account
Your ShopKatalog account is the gateway to your business. Strong account security is essential to protect your shop, customer data, and business information. This guide covers the best practices and tools to keep your account safe.
π Key Principle: A secure account starts with a strong password and responsible account management.
Password Security
Creating a Strong Password
A strong password is your first line of defense:
β Password Requirements
- βAt least 12 characters (16+ recommended)
- βMix of character types: uppercase, lowercase, numbers, symbols
- βUnique: Don't reuse passwords from other accounts
- βRandom: Avoid birthdays, names, or dictionary words
- βNot sequential: Avoid patterns like 123456 or ABCDEF
Password Examples
β Weak: password123, MyShop2024, JohnDoe123
β Strong: Tr0pical$Elephant#Wave2024!, B@ckup!Secur3#Database, $Print3r&Coffee#Mix2024!
Using a Password Manager
A password manager securely stores your passwords:
- Generate and store strong, unique passwords
- Auto-fill passwords in your browser and apps
- Secure password sharing with team members (optional)
- Encrypted storage with master password protection
Popular options: 1Password, Bitwarden, LastPass, KeePass
Changing Your Password
- Go to Account Settings β Security
- Click "Change Password"
- Enter your current password
- Create a new strong password
- Confirm the new password
- Click "Update Password"
β οΈ When to Change Password: Immediately after signup, every 90 days, if compromised, before/after sharing access, or when leaving a team
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Two-factor authentication adds an extra security layer. Even if someone knows your password, they can't access your account without the second factor.
How 2FA Works
- 1Enter Username & Password - Your normal login credentials
- 2Enter Verification Code - Code from authenticator app or SMS
- 3Access Granted - You're logged in securely
Available 2FA Methods (Coming Soon)
Authenticator App
Time-based one-time passwords (TOTP)
- β’ Google Authenticator
- β’ Microsoft Authenticator
- β’ Authy
- β’ 1Password
SMS Text Message
Codes sent to your phone
- β’ 6-digit codes
- β’ Valid for 5 minutes
- β’ Requires active phone number
Recovery Codes
When you enable 2FA, you'll receive recovery codes. Store them safely:
- β οΈSave recovery codes in a safe place (password manager, safe, etc.)
- β οΈDon't share recovery codes with anyone
- β οΈUse them if you lose access to your 2FA device
Login Security Best Practices
Safe Login Practices
- βUse HTTPS: Always access ShopKatalog via https://shopkatalog.com (check the lock icon)
- βVerify URL: Bookmark the site to avoid typosquatting
- βPublic Computer: Use "public computer" mode and always logout
- βKeep Browser Updated: Regular updates include security patches
- βAntivirus Software: Keep your device protected from malware
- βSecure Network: Avoid public WiFi for sensitive account access
- βLogout Properly: Click logout instead of just closing browser
Phishing & Scam Protection
Phishing attacks try to trick you into revealing your password. Here's how to stay safe:
Warning Signs of Phishing
- π©Email asking you to "verify" your password or payment info
- π©Urgent action required - threatens account suspension or closure
- π©Generic greeting like "Dear User" instead of your name
- π©Suspicious email address (not @shopkatalog.com)
- π©Links don't go to ShopKatalog domains
- π©Poor grammar and spelling mistakes
- π©Unsolicited attachments or requests to click links
What To Do If You Suspect Phishing
- Don't click any links or download attachments
- Don't reply to the email
- Report it by forwarding to security@shopkatalog.com
- Delete the email
- Go directly to ShopKatalog by typing the URL yourself
- Check your account for unauthorized access
π‘ Remember: ShopKatalog will never ask for your password via email or phone. We never send unsolicited login links.
Managing Account Access
Active Sessions
Monitor where your account is logged in:
- Go to Account Settings β Security β Active Sessions
- See all devices where you're logged in
- Logout from any unrecognized devices
- Logout from all other sessions if needed
Login Activity
Review recent login attempts:
- See when your account was accessed
- Know which devices and locations logged in
- Identify suspicious login attempts
- Get alerts for unusual activity
Connected Devices
Manage apps and devices with access:
- Go to Account Settings β Security β Connected Devices
- Review all apps with access to your account
- Revoke access from apps you no longer use
- Check permissions for each connected app
Account Recovery
What to do if you've lost access to your account:
Forgot Password
- Go to login page and click "Forgot Password"
- Enter your registered email address
- Check your email for reset link
- Click the link (valid for 1 hour)
- Create a new strong password
- Log in with new password
Account Locked
If you enter wrong password too many times:
- Your account is temporarily locked for security
- Wait 30 minutes before trying again, OR
- Use "Forgot Password" to reset immediately
- You'll receive a security notification
Compromised Account
If you think your account has been hacked:
- Immediately change your password
- Review Account Settings β Security β Login Activity
- Logout all other sessions
- Enable two-factor authentication
- Contact support if you notice suspicious activity
- Check customer information for unauthorized changes
π¨ Emergency: Contact support immediately at security@shopkatalog.com if you believe your account is compromised
Common Questions
How often should I change my password?
We recommend changing your password every 90 days. Change immediately if you suspect compromise or after sharing access with someone.
Is it safe to use the "Remember Me" feature?
"Remember Me" is safe on personal devices. Avoid it on shared or public computers. The session is encrypted and automatically expires.
Can I have multiple people access one account?
It's not recommended to share one account. Each team member should have their own account. We're working on team/admin features.
What if I lose my 2FA device?
Use your saved recovery codes to login. Then disable 2FA and set it up again on your new device. Keep recovery codes safe!
Next Steps
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