Part 3: Making a Password That Resists Hackers

Three More Tips to Creating a Strong Password

3) Change your password every 4 weeks. Many employers serious about protecting their data will require their employees to change their password on a regular basis, once a month at minimum. It is a good practice to do the same on your home computer where you keep private financial information.

4) Do not store your password on paper or with storage software Please avoid password-keeper programs that claim to make your life easier. It is the opinion of this writer that password products do not offer enough protection for your login information should your computer get hacked. It is better to memorize a password whenever possible. Never keep your passwords on a piece of paper under the keyboard or in your wallet. Do not keep them in your PDA either; if you must store your passwords at all, keep the passwords’ hints instead. For example, as an alternative to storing “Dexter2Gouda” use “puppy’s name, age and favorite snack”.

5) Use different passwords for your different computer accounts. As annoying as it is to remember them all, please do create a different password for your email, for your online banking, for your eBay and your PayPal. Should one of your passwords ever be compromised, at least the hacker will not be taking over all of your accounts.



Next: Advanced Password Tips, Including a "Master Password" to Padlock Your Other Passwords......