How to Make a Strong Password

Creating a password is something you do often online. You need one to check your email, shop online, or use your bank account. It can be tempting to use a short and easy password. But doing this puts your personal information at risk. A strong password is harder to guess and keeps your accounts safe.

Strong Password Illustration

Why Strong Passwords Matter

You may wonder why strong passwords are important. Many websites are secure, but there is always a small risk. Hackers might try to break into your accounts and steal your data. A strong password helps stop that from happening.

Tips for Strong Passwords

A good password should be easy for you to remember but hard for others to guess. Here are some simple tips to help you:

  • Don’t use personal info. Avoid using your name, birthday, or email.
  • Make it long. Use at least six characters; more than 10 is better.
  • Mix things up. Use capital and small letters, numbers, and symbols.
  • Avoid real words. “summer2024” is easy to guess.
  • Use different passwords for each account.
  • Try random passwords with a password generator.

Password Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using personal info and real words: Too easy to guess. Use something more random like chEwbAccAp!ZZa.
  • Making it too short: Use at least 10 characters. Example: p3MberLY%Av.
  • Using simple patterns: “123456” or “abcde” are too easy. Try #eV$pIg&qf.

You can use a mnemonic to help remember random passwords. For example, H=jNp2# can be remembered as: Harry = Jessica North Paris 2 #.

  • Using the same password everywhere: If one account gets hacked, all others are at risk.

Using a Password Manager

It can be hard to remember many strong passwords. That’s why password managers are helpful. They store your passwords safely. They can also fill them in for you on websites.

A strong password should have:

  • More than 10 characters
  • A mix of letters, numbers, and symbols
  • No personal info or real words

Using these tips will help keep your accounts safe. Always make strong passwords to protect your personal information.