Password Security Made Simple
Good passwords are your first line of defense against hackers and scammers. The good news? Creating strong passwords doesn't have to be complicated.
Why Passwords Matter
Weak passwords are the #1 way hackers break into accounts. Using strong, unique passwords for each account keeps your personal information, photos, and money safe.
What Makes a Good Password?
Weak Passwords (Avoid These)
- password123
- 123456
- Your birthday (031945)
- Your name (JohnSmith)
- qwerty
- Single words (sunshine)
Strong Passwords (Use These)
- MyDogSpot2015!
- Coffee@Sunrise42
- 3GrandkidsLove!
- GardenRoses$2024
- BlueCar.RedHouse99
How to Create Strong Passwords
The Phrase Method
Turn a sentence into a password:
- Think of a phrase you'll remember: "I love my 3 grandkids!"
- Use the first letters: ILm3g!
- Make it longer and add variety: ILoveMy3Grandkids!
The Words Method
Combine unrelated words with numbers and symbols:
- Pick 2-3 random words: "Blue Garden Coffee"
- Add numbers: "Blue Garden Coffee 47"
- Add a symbol: "BlueGarden@Coffee47"
Password Requirements
Most websites want:
- At least 8-12 characters (longer is better)
- Mix of uppercase and lowercase letters (A and a)
- At least one number (0-9)
- At least one symbol (!@#$%)
Important Rules
Use Different Passwords for Important Accounts
At minimum, use unique passwords for: your email, your bank, and any account with payment information. If one gets hacked, the others stay safe.
Never Share Your Passwords
Banks, Apple, Google, and legitimate companies will NEVER ask for your password by email, phone, or text. Anyone asking is a scammer.
Don't Use Personal Information
Avoid birthdates, pet names, addresses, or phone numbers. Hackers can often find this information about you online.
How to Remember Your Passwords
Option 1: Write Them Down (Safely)
Keep a small notebook with your passwords in a secure place at home - like a locked drawer. Don't keep it near your computer or in your wallet.
Option 2: Use a Password Manager
Apps like 1Password or LastPass securely store all your passwords. You only need to remember one master password. Many are free or low cost.
Option 3: Use Your Phone's Built-in Feature
iPhones have "iCloud Keychain" and Android has "Google Password Manager." They save and suggest passwords automatically.
What to Do If You Think You've Been Hacked
Change your password immediately for that account
Change passwords for any accounts that used the same password
If it's a financial account, call your bank right away
Watch for suspicious emails or charges over the next few weeks
Quick Password Checklist
- At least 12 characters long
- Mix of letters, numbers, and symbols
- Not a common word or personal information
- Different from your other passwords
- Stored somewhere safe (or in a password manager)