Passwords
PopCykol Tip
What is a Password?
A secret word or phrase that protects your information online.
Why do we need a Password?
We need a password because we are trying to protect our personal information. It’s private.
When do you need to use a Password?
Use a password when you need to access information for school, banking, email, social media accounts, apps on a phone, and other private information.
You may need to use a password on any website that asks for it. The password should be different for each new account you create or site you access. Having the same password for multiple sites is bad. If someone tries to break into your account with a password that is used across multiple sites, then they can access ALL your accounts and your private information.
Where do you use a Password?
Use a combination of uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. If you forget your password, you can reset it. Strong passwords are typically 14 or more characters long. You can also use a passphrase, which is a long string of phrases put together that is easy to remember. An example of a passphrase is, “MyFavoriteIceCreamisRockyRoad”.
How do you make a strong Password?
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Do you have your passwords saved in a Word document or Excel spreadsheet? That’s not a safe way to secure your information, even if the file is locked with a password, also known as encrypted. The password can still be stolen by a bad hacker. PopCykol recommends using a Password Manager. A Password Manager securely stores accounts, usernames, passwords, security questions, seed phrases, and credit card information. When you need to log into a site, the Password Manager can enter usernames and passwords automatically. There are several Password Managers to choose from.
How should you store your Password?
Don’t use personal information in your password, such as:
1. Username, first name, last name, nickname, birth date, or pet’s name.
2. Don’t use a word common in English or foreign language dictionaries.
3. Simple alphabet sequences, like abcdefgh; qwerty; or “password” as your password.
4. Don’t use a simple number sequence, like 1234567 or 1111111.
5. Don’t share your password with people who shouldn’t have your password.
6. Change your password immediately if your account has been breached.
7. Check if your password has been compromised by visiting: www.haveibeenpwned.com