As electronic communications and the use of the Internet have become part of our daily routine, being more diligent while using technology is more important than ever before.  For example, we share information in the workplace using many different platforms.  This also means that we have passwords for each of these different platforms or applications.  This is where the extra attention to password complexity is important.  Welcome to the art of creating a secure password.

How can you be sure you are choosing or creating a secure password?  Well, there are many ways to go on the “offense” when creating passwords for your online accounts.  Your passwords should be complex enough so hackers have a tough time with early hack attempts – you want them give up on you and move on.  However, complexity doesn’t always mean nonsensical combinations of numbers, letters and symbols that you will never remember. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has recently revised some of their guidelines for using and creating passwords.  Take a look below for some suggestions to consider when creating strong passwords.

1. Complexity
   • A long memorable phrase or sentence is better than a word
   • NIST recommends at least 8 characters
2. Keep It Unusual
   • Make the phrase or sentence something you like – it will make is easier to remember
   • Try and keep a mental image of it – it will be easier for you to remember
3. Keep your password a secret
   • Never share your password with anyone
   • Never write your password down
4. Don’t Change Too Often
   • Create a stronger password and avoid simple schemes
   • By changing frequently, less thought and care is placed on using a good password, therefore the more predicable

Some good third-party tools to help you stay safe and secure can be found below:

• Password Generators – these are helpful if you are looking for random password.  These are typically harder to remember  however.
  • https://www.grc.com/passwords.htm
    • Passwords are displayed over a encrypted SSL connection
    • Each page is custom generated and will not be cached or visible to anyone else
• Password Managers – these are helpful if you have many sites/accounts and you need one location to store your passwords.  Both of the following are feature rich, and can be used to fulfill the requirements of many organizations or individuals.
  • Keeper – (https://keepersecurity.com/)
    • Multiple levels of plans – Individual to Business
    • Offers tutorials, guides and webinars on use and installations
    • Customizable with your Organization’s branding
    • Free trial
  • Dashlane – (http://www.dashlane.com/)
    • Password generator
    • Autofill feature
    • Alerts to your computer or cell phone when sites suffer breaches
    • One-click auto-change passwords

As cyber security continues to be a hot topic of conversation, you need to take the precautions to keep your data safe.  These tools can help in your quest to secure your information.  Your password is the first line of defense – so make it count.  Put forth the effort to create good password so you don’t become the hackers’ next victim.