A password manager also will alert you to reused passwords and can auto-generate strong passwords when you create any account. How do you keep track of all these unique passwords? It’s a lot easier to remember “qwerty123,” after all, than it is to remember “L67H!2nbq!2J.” Install one of the many free or low-cost password managers to securely store all your passwords in one place. Change any weak or reused passwords, particularly on accounts that contain sensitive information. Take inventory of all your online accounts. To boost your digital security:Ĭheck all your passwords. When one password gets compromised, chances are other accounts are already affected. If a hacker can gain access to one of your accounts, they can breach multiple sites. Google recommends a 12-character password.ĭon’t use the same password across multiple accounts. According to password manager NordPass, two of the most common passwords in 2020 were “123456” and “password.”ĭo use a longer password. Here are some do’s and don’ts when creating a strong password:ĭo use a combination of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.ĭon’t use personal information like your pet’s name, your maiden name, a birthday, or the names of your children.ĭon’t use other common words or names. Is a combination of your dog’s name and the year you were born your go-to password? It’s time to re-evaluate how you formulate your passwords. In either case, it’s a good idea to change your security information. Or maybe you gave a friend or ex-partner your HBO login or your home security app information years ago and they’re still accessing your accounts. If you use a computer at the library, for example, and forget to log out, changing your password regularly limits others from gaining your information. When this happens, the company usually notifies you of the breach and recommends you change your password immediately to protect your information. A big password breach might happen to your bank, your credit card company, or your favorite online store. Protecting against phishing attempts and data breaches. Other reasons to regularly change your password include: Set calendar reminders at regular intervals to change the passwords to accounts that include your medical, financial, and banking information, along with your email, smart home apps, and home security account. When to change your passwordĮxperts generally recommend resetting your passwords every 30 to 90 days.

They found that 66% of people use the same password for multiple online accounts and only 34% regularly change login information. Be honest: When is the last time you changed the passwords to your email, banking account, or your favorite online shop? A 2019 Google and Harris Poll study reports that Americans tend to sacrifice password security for convenience.

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