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Use Unique Passwords
Passwords are used by computer systems and Web sites to verify who you are. When you login to a secure Web site using a password, you are granted appropriate access to available services and resources. If someone else knows or guesses your password, they can access the same resources. In other words, whatever you can do when you are logged into a site, they can do too!
Always choose unique passwords that include letters and numbers. Longer passwords that have eight or more characters and mix letters, numbers and special characters are much more difficult to figure out than shorter, more straightforward passwords. You should also avoid choosing passwords that are obvious, such as family names, birthdays and telephone numbers that might be easy for others to figure out.
Tips for Creating Unique Passwords
- Never share your passwords with others, including family members.
- Always use passwords that are difficult for others to guess. Choose unique passwords that include a mix of letters, numbers and special characters.
- Don't use passwords that are obvious, like your name, names of family members, your address, or any other information that a thief might find in your purse or wallet.
- Try to avoid passwords that are real words.
- Avoid using the same password for multiple applications or Internet services. You should use a unique password for each Web site and purpose.
- If your login IDs or passwords automatically appear in the sign-in page of a secure Web site, you should disable the auto complete function to increase the security of your information.
- Change your passwords frequently.
How to Choose a Rock-solid Password
Securing your password is as easy as humming your favourite tune. Here’s how to create an easy-to-remember and secure password:
Step 1: Think of a favourite song, and use the first letter in each word. For instance, The Beatles "I’ve Got to Get You into My Life", could be translated into IGTGYIML.
Step 2: Replace one or two letters of your song acronym with a number and add a special character or two. “IGTGYIML” becomes a stronger password as IG2GYI2ML.
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