How to Create and Manage Strong Passwords

Passwords are one of the most common and important ways to protect your online accounts and services from unauthorized access. However, passwords can also be one of the weakest links in your cybersecurity if they are not created and managed properly. To create and manage strong passwords, you should follow these steps:

• Use a password manager. A password manager is a tool that helps you create, store, and manage your passwords securely. A password manager can generate strong and random passwords for each of your accounts and services, as well as autofill them when you log in. A password manager can also alert you of any weak, reused, or compromised passwords and help you change them easily. Some examples of password managers are [LastPass], [Dashlane], [1Password], etc.
  
  
• Use long and complex passwords. A long and complex password is harder to guess or crack than a short and simple one. You should use passwords that are at least 12 characters long and contain a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. You should avoid using passwords that are based on personal or common information, such as names, dates, words, phrases, keyboard patterns, etc.
  
  
• Use different passwords for different accounts and services. Using the same password for multiple accounts and services is risky because if one of them is compromised, all of them are compromised. You should use different passwords for different accounts and services, especially for those that contain sensitive or valuable information, such as email, banking, social media, etc.
  
  
• Change your passwords regularly. Changing your passwords regularly can reduce the chances of them being stolen or exposed by hackers or data breaches. You should change your passwords at least every six months or whenever you suspect that they have been compromised. You should also change your passwords if you have shared them with someone else or used them on a public or untrusted device or network.
  
  
• Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA). MFA is a feature that adds an extra layer of security to your online accounts and services by requiring you to enter a code or use a device (such as a phone or a token) to verify your identity when logging in. MFA can prevent hackers from accessing your accounts and services even if they have your password. You should enable MFA whenever possible for your online accounts and services, especially for those that contain sensitive or valuable information. Some examples of MFA methods are SMS codes, authenticator apps, biometric scans, etc.