Here are a few tips on selecting strong passwords and keeping them secure.
- Keep them private
- Do no write them down
- Do not use the same password for multiple accounts
- Follow these guidelines to create strong passwords
- Use a minimum of 8 characters with a combination of:
- Numbers
- Special Characters (- ! @ # $ % ^ & * ( ){ } [ ] | + \ -< > ? /)
- Upper and lower case letters
- Alternate Alpha characters (see table below)
- Use a minimum of 8 characters with a combination of:
- Passwords should not consist of:
- A dictionary word in any language, proper noun, name of person / child, pet or fictional character
- A social security number, serial number, birth date, telephone number, or any information that could be easily obtained or guessed about the creator of the password
- Examples (DO NOT use these):
- “Mix it up!” becomes “M1x1tUp!”
- “How are you?” becomes “hOwRY3w?”
- “Bad dog!” becomes “b@d#d0g!”
- “Too Late Again” becomes “2L8@gA1n”
If you would like assistance with implementing these password security suggestions or to talk about other ways you can increase your cybersecurity, please contact us.