If you’re reading this article, you’ve probably already heard the basics of password security: don’t keep a physical list of your passwords, don’t reuse passwords, don’t use common passcodes or phrases, and include numbers or special characters. However, when your entire life is protected by a series of letters, numbers, and special characters, password security is vital to securing your online presence.
1. Enable Two-factor Authentication
This is a basic one: whenever possible, be sure to utilize two-factor authentication. Two-factor authentication ensures that even if someone does crack your incredibly complex and secure password, they will not be able to access your data without having another of your devices. For example, if you log into your Google account on your laptop, it will send a code to your phone that will enable you to unlock your account.
2. Use a Password Keeper
Once you diversify your passwords and stop using the same three phrases for all of your accounts, it will be harder to remember all of your passwords. That’s where a password keeper becomes a lifesaver. Password keepers are secure services that contain all of your account usernames and passwords. These services often employ encryption, two-factor authentication, and other forms of security to ensure that your passwords remain secret. The most popular password keepers include LastPass, Dashlane, 1Password, and KeePass.
3. Length Counts
While you might think an alphabet soup password would be more secure, for an account you use often, a longer password will serve you better in the long run. That doesn’t mean you should pick “Dog123456789” as your bank password, however. It’s important to still mix up your characters and exclude common phrases and patterns from your passwords. Make sure to not relegate all numbers and special characters to just the beginning or end of your password, but to intersperse them throughout.
4. Pick Passwords and Keep Them
Contrary to a common myth, changing your passwords frequently will not make them more secure. It’s better to spend time creating secure, unique passwords for each of your accounts and sticking with them for at least several months to a year at a time. Of course, passwords should be changed after data breaches or other security breaches that could compromise your data. Keep an eye on security news to know when it’s time to freeze your accounts or change passwords.
5. Don’t Panic
Despite the general air of panic that may surround digital security, the average person does not need to worry too much about their online presence as long as you make sure to protect your passwords, encrypt your data, and just use common sense.