Creating strong passwords should be the number one priority in keeping your online world safe. Weak passwords could result in stolen identities, loss of data or money, and even the loss of reputation.
You’ve likely heard recommendations for creating secure passwords before. Experts suggest using long, complex, and random combinations of words, letters, numbers, and special characters.
Follow the tips below to improve your password safety practices:
Improve the strength of your passwords.
Strong passwords are usually made up of at least sixteen characters. They should contain numbers, uppercase and lowercase letters, as well as special characters.
Use passphrases.
Security standards now recommend using a passphrase rather than a single word. A good passphrase is unique to you so it’s memorable, but still secret enough that no one else can guess it.
Avoid personal or obvious information.
Never include your name, email address, phone number, birth date, or any other identifiable information.
Don’t reuse passwords across accounts.
If cybercriminals steal your password from one site, and you’ve reused it elsewhere, they’ve just gained access to multiple accounts.
Consider a password manager.
Password managers can help create, store, and sync complex passwords across your devices. You’ll only need to remember one master password to access all your secure logins.
Improving your password habits is one of the simplest ways to guard against cybercrime. Take the first step toward better personal security by updating your passwords today!