As our online lives expand, the average user has gone from having just a few passwords to now managing upwards of 100. That’s 100 unique passwords to remember, if you’re using strong password habits. Password managers can save users the trouble of having to remember multiple passwords and make accounts safer by recommending strong, unique passwords and storing them all in one place.

OUR TIPS AND ADVICE

Using an easy-to-guess password is like locking the door but leaving the key in the lock. Weak passwords can quickly be cracked by computer hackers. The good news is that strong passwords are one of the easiest ways to protect your accounts from compromise and reduce the risk of someone stealing sensitive information, data, money, or even your identity.

STRENGTHEN YOUR PASSWORDS WITH THESE TIPS

1. Longer is stronger: Passwords with at least 16 characters are hardest to crack.
2. Hard to guess: Two ways to do this are:
   1. Use a random string of mixed-case letters, numbers and symbols. For example:
      • cXmnZK65rf*&DaaD
      • Yuc8$RikA34%ZoPPao98t

       

   2. Create a memorable phrase of 5 – 7 unrelated words. This is called a “passphrase.” To make it even better, get creative with spelling and/or add a number or symbol. For example:

      • Strong: HorsePurpleHatRunBaconShoes
      • Stronger: HorsPerpleHatRunBayconShoos
      • Strongest: HorsPerpleHat#1RunBayconShoos
3. One of a kind: Use a unique password for each account.

Remembering long, unique passwords for every account in our lives is impossible. Rather than write them down or reuse weak passwords, use a password manager.

Password managers generate complex and unique passwords for you, store them all in one place and tell you when you have weak, re-used passwords, or compromised passwords. They can also automatically fill credentials into sites and apps using a secure browser plugin. You only need to remember one master password—the one for accessing the password manager itself. (Tip: Create a memorable long “passphrase” as described above and NEVER write your master password down.)

To learn more about password managers and the various types read our previous blog post here.

ADDITIONAL FACTS AND FIGURES

• Only 33% of individuals create unique passwords for all accounts (NCA)
• Only 18% of individuals have downloaded a password manager (NCA)

REGISTER FOR OUR WEBINAR 

How to Stay Safe Online

10/31/23 @ 11am CST

For a printable version of the flyer below, click here.