Small Business Owners: Why Outsourcing Computer Services Matters

3 Tips For Secure Passwords

Keeping online accounts secure, especially ones that contain sensitive information, can be difficult for some internet users. Many make the mistake of creating passwords that are easy to guess. Creating a secure password is a must for anyone who wants to keep their information safe. However, many are unsure of what makes a password secure. It can also be difficult to remember secure passwords for multiple accounts. Here are three tips for creating secure passwords that can help keep sensitive information safe:

Letters, Numbers, And Special Characters

Password requirements can vary greatly from program to program and from company to company. However, there are a few things that can make a password more secure. A few good practices include making the password a collection of random letters instead of dictionary words, numbers, and special characters. Passwords that are longer 8 characters are also more secure than shorter passwords. It's important to avoid easily guessed passwords such as "12345678" or "password". Each password should also be unique. Using the same password for everything can be a big security risk.

Two-Factor Authentication

Many have heard of two-factor authentication but are perhaps unsure of what it is. Two-factor authentication involves adding another layer of security in addition to just a password. Programs that use two-factor authentication will often require another piece of information in addition to the password. This extra piece of information can be anything ranging from a code sent to a cell phone to a fingerprint. Two-factor authentication is being offered by more and more companies in order to create a more secure environment. If available, users should consider using this feature in order to help keep their information safe.

Use A Password Manager

Another issue that many run into is that it is difficult to remember unique passwords for multiple accounts. However, unique passwords are key when it comes to internet security. A password manager will keep all of the passwords in one safe place and can even sign users into certain programs automatically. The great thing about a password manager sign up is that it requires users to only remember one master password instead of multiple unique passwords. Password managers can range in price. Some or free while others charge a small monthly fee. For a password manager that syncs all devices, users can expect to pay around $40 per year.

Secure passwords are a must in today's world for keeping information safe. Insecure passwords can lead to financial and person information making its way into the hands of criminals. It's important to use a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters in order to create a secure password. Two-factor authentication can also create a more secure environment. A password manager can also help users remember multiple unique passwords.


Share