Every day, we log into websites—many of them holding sensitive information—by typing in passwords. But how strong are the passwords you use? How long would it take a skilled hacker to decipher them and gain access to your accounts?

If someone were to crack your password, what could they access? Your bank account? Social Security number? Home address? Protecting this information starts with creating strong passwords.

Common Password Mistakes

• Using predictable passwords: Names of children, pets, or streets you live on are among the first things hackers will try.
• Recycling the same password: Using the same password across multiple sites is risky. If a hacker cracks your password on one site, they can use it to access your other accounts, including sensitive ones like online banking.

Tips for Creating Strong Passwords

• Avoid easy-to-guess passwords: Don’t use names, birthdays, or any information that someone who knows you could guess.
• Use complexity and variety:
  • Be at least 8 characters long.
  • Include a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
  • Avoid sequences or repeated characters (e.g., "123456" or "aaaaaa").
• Make passwords unique for each site: This way, even if one password is compromised, your other accounts remain secure.

Remembering Your Passwords

• Store passwords securely: Write them down, but keep the list in a secure location (not your desk drawer).
• Use password managers: Tools like 1Password and LastPass can help generate and store strong passwords. These programs encrypt your password files, making them accessible only to you.

Change Passwords Regularly

Even the strongest password can become risky over time. Make it a habit to change your passwords every 3 to 6 months. This additional step reduces the chances of your accounts being compromised.

Conclusion

Creating strong, unique passwords is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to protect your online accounts. Avoid common mistakes, use complex passwords, and take advantage of password management tools to stay secure. With these precautions, you’ll be well on your way to protecting your sensitive information from hackers.