How Secure is your Password?

1. Don’t log into any private accounts on public computers at libraries, hotels, or common work computers.

2. Remember to never store passwords in any web browser, even on your personal computer.

3. Use a different password for each website account you create.

  Don’t use common combinations like 1234, abcd, or password, or phrases such as Ilovemydog or simple names like Duke.

4. When creating a new password, make sure it has at least 12 characters, includes both upper and lower case letters, numbers, and special characters like an ! or #. Even if the site does not require this, it’s always best to be on the safe side.

  Consider using a phrase or a lyric that’s easy to remember as a basis for creating passwords. An example if this could be a song lyric like: “I’m just a poor boy from a poor family” – or IjaPBfaPF.

5. When setting up security questions, don’t use common information that can be searched for online, like your mother’s maiden name, a previous address, or a phone number. Make sure those questions are something that only you would know the answer to.

  Remember the answers don’t have to be truthful, just memorable.

6. Even if you are doing all this, remember to change your passwords periodically.

  We recommend at least three times a year.

7. Use two-step authentication whenever possible.

     Having a simple text message sent to your cell phone whenever you log into an account on a new computer or when your password is changed will help with security and warn you whenever something has changed in your account.