It is essential to have a strong password to protect yourself and your data. Within this section are some top tips on how to achieve that.
- Use a different password for each account. If you use the same one for multiple accounts, they’re all vulnerable if one is hacked.
- Using a random combination of at least eight letters (both upper and lower case), numbers and symbols makes it much harder for would-be hackers. The +home Office’s Cyber Streetwise campaign suggests the strongest password consists of three random words: “Numbers and symbols can still be used if needed. However, three random words is the key to a strong password.”
- Never use personal information such as your name, whole words, or sequential patterns such as 1234.
- Regularly update your recovery email address so you can be easily contacted if you need to reset your password. You can also add a phone number to receive password reset codes by text. Ensure that the answers to any security questions you create are things that only you know.
- Keep your passwords secure. Don’t leave them lying around on a Post-it notes on your desk.
