Lifestyle

The Three Keys to a Great Password

A great password is often the only thing standing between you and identity theft. But what makes a password really secure? Turns out, there are some important guidelines to follow to keep information safe. Read on for three smart tips.

1. Know the latest security standards.The National Institute of Standards and Technology has established some new rules for setting more-secure passwords.MAKE YOUR PASSWORDS LONGER.Longer passwords are harder to decipher. Try using short phrases instead of just one word.AVOID PASSWORDS HINTS OR RESET QUESTIONS. Password hints aren’t all that effective and can actually make it easier to hack into your accounts.DON’T REPEAT THE SAME NUMBER OR LETTER.Something like “yessssss999” is much too easy for identity thieves to crack.DON’T USE COMMON IDENTIFIERS AS A PASSWORD.For example, if your name is Jane Smith and you’re setting up a Netflix account, don’t use “janesmith” or “Netflix” as your password.

2.Don't use the same password more than once. By using the same password on multiple services, you are potentially giving hackers access to every service where you're using that password. This is like having a single key that opens your house, your, car, and your bank's safety deposit box. If someone steals that key, they can access everything you own. Always create different keys, or passwords, for separate accounts.

3. Make use of a password manager. A password management tool is your greatest ally. These are programs or apps that will create unique passwords on each of your accounts and store them all for you in a single, secure location, so you'll never lose them again. They can also sync with multiple devices and auto-populate passwords whenever you need them, saving you a ton of time and trouble.

The World Wide Web can be complicated, but setting secure passwords doesn't have to be. With a bit of effort, you can use smart practices to help keep all your accounts safe and secure. SOURCE: The National Institute of Standards and Technology, 2019

Share |

Related Content

An Arm and a Leg

An Arm and a Leg

A visit to the hospital can be painful, for both your body and your wallet. Don’t let it be more painful than it has to be.

Financial Aid for Students 101

Financial Aid for Students 101

Help your college-bound child explore scholarships, grants, and more with this article on paying for higher education.

Should I Buy or Lease an Auto?

Should I Buy or Lease an Auto?

This calculator compares the financial impact of leasing versus buying an automobile.

Have A Question About This Topic?

Personal Finance Tips for Military Families

Military families face unique challenges, making personal finance even more critical.

The Financial Literacy Crisis

Many Americans are operating their personal finances with only the barest minimum of knowledge.

Do Your Kids Know The Value of a Silver Spoon?

You taught them how to read and how to ride a bike, but have you taught your children how to manage money?

View all articles

Can I Refinance My Mortgage?

This calculator can help determine whether it makes sense to refinance your mortgage.

Comparing Mortgage Terms

Estimate the total cost in today's dollars of various mortgage alternatives.

Should I Buy or Lease an Auto?

This calculator compares the financial impact of leasing versus buying an automobile.

View all calculators

Suddenly Single: 3 Steps to Take Now

Have you found yourself suddenly single? Here are 3 steps to take right now.

A New Way to Look at Your Bucket List

Bucket lists don’t have to be for tomorrow.

To Buy or Not to Buy

The decision whether to buy or rent a home may have long-term implications.

View all videos