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Passwords are the keys to our digital lives. As such, they are often the single most important link in the chain of security that protects us. Read on to learn how to ensure that chain remains unbroken.
Use strong (i.e. long), unique passwords
Choose a strong password and use different passwords for different devices and services. Many of us re-use the same or similar passwords over and over for ease of remembering them, but this is one of the worst ways to expose yourself to hackers. Instead, use a password manager to not only generate completely unique and secure passwords for each of your services, but also to store and type them in for you. With a password manager, you only need to remember one secure password to access all of them.
The best passwords are long (14 characters or more).
Avoid using common or easily guessed words in your password (e.g. password, Skyhawks, Stonehill, etc.).
Create a password that is easy to remember, for you not others
Family member’s names, birthdays and pet names are easy passwords for others to guess, so try to use a word or phrase that is memorable but tough for others to decipher.
Sentences or phrases are long and easy to remember.
Never share your password or multi-factor authentication codes with anyone
Never write down your password or leave it accessible for anyone to find – this includes sending it in an email.
Additionally, remember that multi-factor authentication (MFA) codes are meant for you, and no one else. The sole purpose of these codes is to physically validate that you, the account owner, are the person attempting to use your password on an untrusted device. Therefore, you should never give this code to anyone else, nor approve any MFA prompt that you yourself did not initiate or were not expecting.
Protect PINs (bank cards, credit cards, voicemail)
Make sure to keep your PINs confidential and protected, including covering a keypad if typing in a public area.
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