How to Create a Strong Password
Introduction
The best way to prevent your accounts from being hacked and your identity stolen is to make sure that you have created strong passwords. What is a strong password and how does it differ from a not-so-strong password?
The following examples do NOT make a strong password:
- A strong password is not an alphabetical series that is either alpha à zeta or vice versa. Don’t use ABCDEFG for example – you will be hacked.
- A strong password is not a series of adjacent numerals placed either forward or backward. Don’t use 1234567, 7654321 or something similar as your password – you will be hacked.
- A strong password is not a string of identical letters or numbers such as BBBBBBBB or 888888888. You will be hacked.
- A strong password is not a common acronym– such as wysiwyg or querty. You will be hacked.
- A strong password is not your name, UserID or any variation thereof such as the same with mixed case letters or spelled backwards. You will be hacked.
- A strong password is not a word or words that can easily be associated with you such as the names of your pets, the name of your spouse, the name of your favorite rugby team or a fictional character with which you identify. You will be hacked.
The following guidelines do make a strong password:
- A strong password is not a word that a dictionary will contain.
- A strong password is at least eight characters long – ten to sixteen is better.
- A strong password may be created from the first letters of each word of a phrase.
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- Make sure that the cases are mixed.
- Make sure that at least one number and/or allowed special character is included
Examples of a strong password:
“My niece Tyndall is 6 years old in March.” The password generated would be MnTi6yoiM. This complies with the suggestions for making a strong password.
“Uncle Harry has been a Democrat for all of his 67 years!” The password generated would be UHhbaDfaoh67y!. This password also complies with the suggestions.
Password security:
- Use differing passwords on each account.
- Change your password frequently.
- Do not write your passwords down.
- Do not share your password with anyone else – ever.
To test the strength of a potential password, go to the Password Strength Analyzer.