It's World Password Day, and we're celebrating by giving you some important password tips!
Password Day is the first Thursday of May. It is a day that is dedicated to reminding people to use strong passwords and to share the importance of password security. World Password Day was created by Intel in 2013 as a reminder to both review and strengthen passwords. To make them more secure, you can also add more precautions like a password manager or two-factor authentication. Keep reading for more password tips so you can be safe and secure.
Change is Important
You should change your password at a minimum of once a year to keep your accounts safe and secure. It may be a hassle, but changing your passwords often will make your accounts much harder to hack, keeping your information secure. If you’re using the same password across different accounts, it would also be a good idea to change those too. If they can get into one account, then they can get into them all if you’re using it for multiple accounts.
Don't give it out
This may seem like a no-brainer, but do not share your password with others unless absolutely necessary. This means your family, friends, strangers on the bus, and your pets…actually go ahead and tell your pet, as long as it isn’t a parrot. Keeping your password and accounts safe may be extremely important to you but not as important to others. Decrease the chance of your password getting around by keeping the information to yourself.
Make it Strong
No, not by taking it to the gym, but by making it difficult to guess.
Some tips to make a strong password:
- Avoid using dictionary words
- Include numbers, symbols, as well as both upper and lower case letters
- Create a password with a minimum of 12 characters
- Characters include: letters, numbers, and symbols
- Make it even safer by adding an extra layer of security with 2-step verification. This could be as simple as requiring a code that is sent to your mobile device, ensuring that you are the only one able to access your account. Even though your password may be compromised, this step prevents a hacker from accessing your account.
Don't Write it Down
It may be tempting to keep a written record of all of your passwords, just in case you forget them, but writing down your passwords to make your life easier would also make it easier for the people looking to steal your passwords. Try keeping your passwords in a folder on your phone locked by fingerprint or facial recognition. If you do not have this feature on your phone and you feel you must write it down, keep the paper in your wallet so that it is always on your person.