Is your password strong enough to protect against hackers? Having many long and complicated passwords can be difficult to remember, but they could save you from identity theft and fraud. Here are some tips:
1. Use symbols and numbers in a password that’s 12 characters or more
Passwords that are short or easily found in the dictionary are easier to guess and find by bots. Creating a a long password with incorrect grammar and spelling will make it harder to guess.
2. Keep personal information out of passwords
Anything like your name, birthday, pets names, or names of family members should be kept out of passwords. Additional information that can be guessed from social media accounts is also a no-no. You should also keep easily guessable information from social media out of security questions.
3. Try a password manager
If creating multiple passwords sounds daunting, password managers are extremely helpful for remembering long and complicated passwords. A password manager stores and generates top-notch passwords, using strong encryption to keep them safe. You will only need to remember one password, the master password to access the manager.
4. Enable Two-Factor-Authentication (TFA)
TFA sends a code to your phone to input after the password. This extra measure of security ensures that you are the person logging into your account or making a purchase. This practice is common among many large companies, and is often a deterrent to hackers.
