Is It Time to Change Your Passwords?

Tomorrow, May 5,  is World Password Day.  I know, where do they come up with these names?

Anyway….since there is a holiday proclaimed for World Password Day, I think we should celebrate!

Let’s Celebrate

Let’s kick off the celebration with a few password tips and changing passwords on your important accounts.

Password Dos and Don’ts

Tips on safe passwords, why you should change, etc.

• Change your passwords several times a year.  Many recommend monthly.
• Don’t use your name or your birthdate as a password.
• Use at least 8 characters and more is better.
• Don’t use the word “admin” as a login or password.
• Make sure you use a mixture of upper and lower case letters and numbers.
• Don’t share your password with others
• Don’t use the same password for multiple programs.
• To make your life easier, use a password saver. (see below)

Too Many Passwords to Remember?

If you are thinking, I have too many passwords to remember.  How can I remember them all?

Well I have some suggestions:

• Spreadsheet – A google sheet or excel spreadsheet with columns for the program, login, password, etc.  This does require you to remember to enter everything into the spreadsheet when you create a new password or change a password.
• Roboform – Desktop password manager with mobile apps.
• LastPass – Free secure login storage and password generator.
• DashLane  – Superb password security for all your browsers and devices. Can sync all devices.

Of course, there are others, but these are the ones I’m most familiar with.

So take a few minutes this week to change your passwords.  Mark it on your calendar when you should change your passwords next.  Remember, yes it takes time to change them, but it will take much more time to deal with hackers if you fail to change and someone hacks your page or a program you are using.

Enjoy World Password Day!