CREATING GOOD PASSWORDS

1) You should generally have at least two passwords, one secure one and one not-so-secure one.

2) The not-so-secure password should be used for websites such as Google Mail or Yahoo Mail, or online newspaper subscription websites, etc.

3) The secure password should be used for websites such as your online banking websites (Chase.com, Wellsfargo.com, etc.), your stock brokerage websites (Schwab.com, EdwardJones.com, etc.), Paypal, iTunes/Apple App store and so on.

4) The most secure passwords have random UPPER and lower case letters, numbers and symbols, such as: M4q97$pX

5) The worst passwords are:

1) Simple words that can be found in the dictionary, such as password, computer, integer, etc.

2) Your first or last name, your initials, your pet’s name, your children’s or grandchildren’s names.

3) Simple numbers such as 1234, 1111 or 1776.

4) Your social security number, your house number, your phone number, your bank PIN number, etc.

6) The not-so-secure password can be something simple like:

1) hotdoglink365

2) nomading37

3) P#3459

7) You should change your passwords at least once every 3-6 months.

8) Because it may be difficult to remember these passwords, you can write the password down on a piece of paper and paste the paper under your desk or put the paper somewhere you will remember, such as in a safe or under a speaker. Yes, we know that this sort of defeats the purpose of a password, but writing down your passwords can help you avoid hours of frustration. If you are worried that someone might find the piece of paper, you can use password hints that only you understand. (Do not keep this piece of paper in your wallet!)