Passwords & Security

Passwords & Security

1. What makes a secure password?

   • Passwords should be at least 6 characters long and include upper and lower case letters
   • Don't include any personal information in your password, such as your date of birth or real name
   • Put numbers and special characters in your password. This makes it harder for computer programs to guess.
   • If your password for an account has to be a certain length, make the most of it. Don't just repeat the same short password again.
   • Passwords that use a certain pattern can be easier to remember, but just make sure it's not too predictable
   • You can use sites like Howsecureismypassword.net to check how long it would take a computer to crack your password and get tips on how to make it better
   • If you can, use a biometric password such as your fingerprint, retina pattern, facial recognition or voice recognition.

2. How to keep your password safe

   • Don't use the same password for multiple accounts
   • Change your password at least once every three months
   • NEVER write your password down, even on your phone
     • Similarly, don't screenshot or take a photo of your password to help you remember
   • Don't tell ANYONE your password, unless it's to help you remember it and you completely trust them
   • Don't save your password on a harddrive