Passwords are an essential aspect of modern life, serving as gatekeepers to our digital accounts and personal information. Unfortunately, they can also be a weak point in our online security, particularly if they are easy to guess or steal.
To keep your accounts and data safe, it’s important to create and store strong passwords.
Here are seven expert tips for doing so:
- Use a combination of upper and lower case letters, numbers, and symbols. This will make your password more difficult to guess or crack.
- Avoid using personal information, such as your name, address, or date of birth, in your password. Hackers often try these first when attempting to access an account.
- Make your password at least 12 characters long. The longer your password, the stronger it will be.
- Avoid using the same password for multiple accounts. If one of your accounts is compromised, this could put all of your accounts at risk.
- Use a password manager. These tools generate and store strong passwords for you, making it easier to use unique passwords for all of your accounts.
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) when available. This adds an extra layer of protection by requiring you to enter a code sent to your phone or email in addition to your password.
- Change your passwords regularly, especially if you suspect that they may have been compromised.
By following these tips, you can create and store strong passwords that will help keep your accounts and personal information secure.