Creating strong passwords may seem like a daunting task, especially when the recommendation is to have a unique password for each site you visit. Anyone would be overwhelmed if they had to create and memorize multiple passwords like Wt4e-79P-B13^qS.
As a result, many people end up using one identical password for multiple sites, despite knowing the risks. Alternatively, they use several passwords, but they are all short, simple words or include numbers related to their personal lives, which still makes them easy to guess. Some even resort to writing down hard-to-remember passwords, compromising their safety if others have access to their computer.
So, how can you create strong passwords that are both secure and memorable? Let’s explore some tips and tricks.
What Makes a Password Strong?
The key aspects of a strong password are length, a mix of letters (both uppercase and lowercase), numbers, and symbols, as well as no ties to your personal information or common dictionary words. The good news is that you don’t have to memorize long strings of random characters to incorporate all of these aspects into your passwords. You simply need a few tricks.
How to Easily Spot a Weak Password
To understand what constitutes a strong password, let’s first look at some common practices that put millions of users at risk on a daily basis. Here are a few examples of weak passwords and why they are risky:
- It uses common words: Avoid using simple words like “Password,” “Default,” or “Blank,” as these are easily guessed and can be targeted by automated hacking tools.
- It includes personal information: Steer clear of passwords that include your name, birth year, or other easily identifiable information. Hackers can easily guess these details and gain access to your accounts.
- It’s short and easily deciphered: Always opt for longer passwords, as they are more difficult to crack. Additionally, avoid using obvious substitutions, such as replacing the letter “l” with the number “1,” as these can be easily guessed.
How to Keep a Strong Password Secure
Once you’ve created a strong password, there are a few additional measures you can take to ensure its security:
- Don’t reuse your passwords: Using the same password across multiple websites puts all of your accounts at risk. If one site is breached, the others become vulnerable too.
- Don’t write your passwords down: Although it may be tempting to keep track of passwords the old-fashioned way, this method is easily discoverable and compromises your security.
- Use a password manager: Consider using a password manager app to securely store your passwords. This helps you keep track of complex passwords without compromising your safety.
- Don’t share your passwords: Sharing passwords is a major security risk. If you must share temporary access, make sure to change the password as soon as possible.
Tips for Creating a Unique Password (That’s Also Strong)
So, how can you create hard-to-crack passwords that are unique and easy to remember? Here are some tricks you can try:
Use a phrase and incorporate shortcut codes or acronyms
Create passwords based on phrases that hold meaning for you or are relevant to the type of website you’re using:
- 2BorNot2B_ThatIsThe? (To be or not to be, that is the question)
- L8r_L8rNot2day (Later, later, not today)
- 4Score&7yrsAgo (Four score and seven years ago)
- John3:16=4G (Biblical reference)
- 14A&A41dumaS (One for all and all for 1 – from The Three Musketeers)
Use passwords with common elements, but customize them for specific sites
Tell a story using a consistent style, so if you know how you write the first sections, you’ll know what to add when logging in to a particular site:
- ABT2_uz_AMZ! (About to use Amazon)
- ABT2_uz_BoA! (About to use Bank of America)
- Pwrd4Acct-$$ (Password for an account at the bank)
- Pwrd4Acct-Fb (Password for a Facebook account)
Play with your keyboard
Make use of the various keys on your keyboard to create unique passwords:
- Add emoticons: Turn symbols into smiley faces or other shapes to make them easier to remember. For example, 1qazdrfvgy7 can represent a “W” on your keyboard, which is much easier to remember.
- Use commonly allowed symbols: Take advantage of the wide range of symbols allowed by most websites.
Remember, creating strong, long, and memorable mixed-character passwords doesn’t have to be a chore. By utilizing these tricks, you can protect your online accounts while having a little fun along the way. Share these tips with others, but remember never to share your actual passwords. Stay safe!