Strong Passwords 101

Pump up your password strength

In today's digital world, your password is more than just a key to your
accounts—it's your first line of defense against cyber threats. Whether you're
logging into your email or online banking, a strong password can be the
difference between staying secure and falling victim to a data breach.

Why Strong Passwords Matter

Cybercriminals are constantly evolving their tactics, and weak passwords are
one of the easiest ways for them to gain access to your accounts or personal
information. The good news? Strengthening your passwords is simple and
effective.

5 Best Practices for Creating Strong Passwords

Here's how to build a password that keeps your information safe:

1. Make It Long. Aim for at least 12 characters. The longer your password,
the harder it is to crack.

2. Mix It Up. Use a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters,
numbers, and special characters. A password like T!m3To$ecur3 is far
more secure than timetime123.

3. Avoid the Obvious. Skip easily guessable information like your birthday,
pet's name, or common sequences like 123456 or password.

4. Don't Reuse Passwords. Each account should have its own unique
password. Reusing passwords across multiple sites increases your risk
—if one account is compromised, others may also be vulnerable.

5. Use a Password Manager. A password manager helps you generate,
store, and autofill strong passwords securely. It's a smart, simple way
to manage multiple accounts without compromising security.

Small Steps, Big Impact

Taking a few minutes to strengthen your passwords can significantly reduce
your risk of cyberattacks. Whether you're at home or at work, these small
steps can make a big difference in protecting your accounts and personal
information.