Every password you have is important.
Here's how to make your passwords uncrackable.
ONTENTS
We
live in a password-driven world, where between four and 20 characters are the
difference makers in whether you're able to access your data, communicate with
friends, or make your online purchases. The problem is that passwords should be
different everywhere you use them, and that can make it difficult to remember
them all. And, if a password is truly strong, that makes it even more
difficult. That's why we've put together this helpful password guide. Follow
these tips and tricks to take total control of your terms for access.
Common Problems with Passwords
Use Different Passwords
Everywhere, Why would you do this when it's
so easy to just type "fido" at every password prompt? Here's why: If
"fido" gets cracked once, it means the person with that info now has
access to all of your online accounts. A study by BitDefender showed that 75 percent of people use their e-mail password
for Facebook, as well. If that's also your Amazon or PayPal password and it's
discovered, say good-bye to some funds, if not friends.
Remember the Underwear Meme The saying goes like this: Passwords are like underwear. You
should change them often (okay, maybe not every day). Don't share them. Don't
leave them out for others to see (no sticky notes!). Oh, and they should be
sexy. Wait, sorry, I mean they should be mysterious. In other words, make your
password a total mystery to others.
You can make your password sexy if you really want, however. I
won't judge. Avoid Common Passwords If the word
you use can be found in the dictionary; it's not a strong password. If you use
numbers or letters in the order they appear on the keyboard ("1234"
or "qwerty"), it's not a strong password. If it's the name of your
relatives, your kids, or your pet, favorite team, or city of your birth, guess
what—it's not a strong password. If it's your birthday, anniversary, date of
graduation, even your carlicense plate number,
it's not a strong password. It doesn't matter if you follow this with another
number. These are all things hackers would try first. They write programs to
check these kinds of passwords first, in fact.
Other terms to avoid: "god," "money,"
"love," "monkey," "letmein," and for the love of
all that's techie, if you use "password" as your password, just sign
off the Internet right now.
