Best Practices for Password Security

1. Create Strong Passwords:

• Length Matters: Aim for at least 12 characters. Longer passwords are harder for hackers to crack.
• Mix It Up: Use a combination of upper and lower case letters, numbers, and special characters.
• Avoid Predictable Patterns: Do not use easily guessable sequences like "12345" or "password."
• No Personal Information: Avoid using easily accessible information like birthdays, anniversaries, or names.

2. Unique Passwords for Different Accounts:

• Avoid Reuse: Each account should have a unique password. Reusing passwords across multiple sites increases vulnerability if one site is compromised.

3. Regularly Update Your Passwords:

• Change Periodically: Regularly update your passwords, especially for sensitive accounts like email and banking.
• React to Breaches: Change your passwords immediately if you are notified of a security breach.

4. Use Password Managers:

• Store Securely: Password managers can securely store your passwords, eliminating the need to remember each one.
• Generate Strong Passwords: Many password managers offer the feature to generate strong, random passwords.

5. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA):

• Add an Extra Layer: Wherever possible, enable 2FA. This requires a second form of identification beyond just your password, such as a text message code or a fingerprint.

6. Be Aware of Phishing Attempts:

• Don’t Share Your Password: Legitimate companies will never ask for your password via email or phone calls.
• Verify Sources: Be cautious about where you enter your password. Phishing scams often create fake login screens to steal your credentials.

7. Secure Your Devices:

• Lock Your Devices: Ensure that your devices are password protected, reducing the risk of unauthorized access if they are lost or stolen.
• Update Regularly: Keep your operating system and applications updated to protect against security vulnerabilities.