1. Create a Complex Password: Use a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers and symbols.
2. Avoid Common Passwords or Pins: In a recent study, the 10,000 most common passwords would have accessed 98% of all accounts! Avoid common ones like “password,” “abc123” and “1111.” (See a larger list of common passwords to avoid here.)
3. Use a Long Password: A password of 12 characters takes much longer to be cracked by a hacking program than one that is shorter.
4. Don’t Use the Same Password for All Accounts: Even if your password is strong, if a hacker manages to get it, he will have access to ALL of your personal information.
5. Change Your Passwords Every 6 Months: Create a system to remind yourself or use the “Remind Me” feature through your free Master Lock Vault account.
6. Keep Your Password Secret: You’d be surprised at how many people put their passwords on sticky notes on their computer monitor or under their keyboard!
You can find more password protection tips from Master Lock here. Be sure to follow these guidelines to avoid becoming an easy target for hackers.
Disclosure: As a member of the Master Lock Live Secure Safety Squad, I receive complimentary products for my honest review. However, all opinions are 100% my own.