Summary
You may occasionally experience problems when trying to login to a website you frequently use. This page offers some suggestions for resolving those problems. You may need assistance from a tech savvy fried or support person to follow these instructions.
STEP #1 — Confirm Site Address
Confirm you are on the correct site and not on a spoof imposter website. Did you click a link in an email to get where you are? Use your regular bookmarks and favorites, or type in the known correct address instead of following links in emails.
STEP #2 — Review Saved Passwords
As a convenience, most browsers will let you save your email and password for sites you regularly visit. If you change your password, on the next login, you’ll usually be prompted to “update” the saved password.
If the login is saved as a new login instead of an update to an existing login, then your browser could end up with two or more old login credentials. If you accidentally choose an old login when it is suggested, this can result in you not being able to login. Periodically review your list of saved logins and make sure there are no old saved logins.
In rare cases, a previously saved correct login can get corrupted. It may appear correct when reviewed, but still not work. Delete it and login again, saving the login to start fresh.
STEP #3 — Clear Cache of Website Data
Sometimes, previously stored cookies, logins, or session data can cause a site login to not work properly. If you clear the cache of old website data it can help. Some browsers will have the option to clear website data in settings.
With Safari on an Apple Mac computer, this is found under the Develop menu. To enable the Develop menu, go to the Safari menu > Preferences > Advanced and put a check in the box next to “Show Develop menu in menu bar.” The Develop menu will now be visible.
Clearing site data removes any downloaded images and data for websites.
You do not need to clear your browsing history.
You do not need to clear cookies for all sites — only for the site that is giving you trouble.
STEP #4 — Test Login
After following the above steps, attempt login again. If it still doesn’t work, try using an app on your smartphone if that is an option for the website or service you are working with.
STEP #5 — Change Password
Some websites may periodically require a password reset. This may be to establish new password complexity standards. You may want to use the “forgot password” option to reset your password, making sure your new password meets the requirements. Be sure to make a record of the password along with the date of the change.
Conclusion
Many login problems can be resolved by having a good password management system, such as a book you write in or an app you keep updated regularly.
