With the new year in full swing, now is a great time to run down the list of passwords you use on a daily basis, and give them a complete audit. Stop using the same semi-secure password(s) on everything, and lay down some solid security for your personal information.
The general rules we’ve all heard since receiving our first email accounts:
1) Minimum of 6 characters (minimum of 8 is better)
2) Use at least one lowercase and one uppercase letter
3) Use at least one number
4) Use at least one non-alphanumeric character (typically: ! @ # $ * | etc.)
5) Avoid using words from the dictionary (“LightSpeed!” could be much more secure as “L|ghtSp33d!”, for example)
Using these basic rules will give you something solid to start with. However, there are many more tricks to assist with really securing that personal data. A LifeHacker article about choosing and remembering great passwords makes a couple key points: A) Don’t use the same password for everything. B) Try using a “base” password, and then combine that with some extra information unique to the service or site. Doing so allows you to potentially have a unique password for every site or service used.
Do you just want a random password generated for you? Try this tool: The Strong Password Generator. It allows you to choose the length and a yes/no option for using symbols. The password gets generated, and then they offer a phrase to help you remember this password. Sometimes this phrase is useful, and sometimes not-so-much.
Another useful tool is a Password Strength Checker. There are plenty of them around on the web, but this one has the most comprehensive and detailed version I’ve experienced to date: The Password Meter. Type in your password, and get the scoring system and a percentage on the strength of your password in real-time. Try out your new password here to ensure you have chosen wisely. It might also give you some insight on ways to improve your passwords.
You never know when your passwords will be challenged by some nefarious individual(s) in cyberspace. Give yourself some peace of mind, and make 2010 the year you don’t have to worry about such things. Remember, you’re not only protecting yourself, but others who might be on your contacts list.
