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Today, May 2, 2024, is World Password Day. A day to raise awareness about the importance of strong passwords for protecting our personal and professional information. In light of recent worldwide cyber-attacks and data breaches, it is more important than ever to be vigilant about our password practice.
It is everyone’s responsibility to protect our information. Strong passwords are the first line of defense against cyber-attacks and hackers, and we all must take this seriously. Here are some tips for creating strong passwords and good password practice for all your accounts:
Create a strong password: The days of 8-character passwords are long gone. A strong password now should be at least 15 characters long and include a mix of upper and lower case letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using common words or phrases, and do not use personal information such as your name, birthdate, or address.
Use a unique password for each account: Do not use the same password for multiple accounts. If one account is compromised, it could put all of your other accounts at risk. Check out Regina’s article and password worksheet on how to create strong and unique passwords you can remember.
Change your passwords regularly: While not always required, you should consider changing your passwords periodically, about every 90 days. This helps to prevent unauthorized access to your accounts.
Enable two-factor authentication: I can’t stress this enough! Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to your accounts by requiring a second form of authentication, such as a fingerprint or a code sent to your phone, in addition to your password.
Be cautious of phishing attempts: Phishing is a common tactic used by cybercriminals to steal passwords and other personal information. Be skeptical of emails or messages that ask for your password or personal information, and do not click on links or download attachments from unknown sources.
Remember, strong passwords are just one part of your cybersecurity practice. It is equally important to keep your computer and phone software up to date, use antivirus software, and be cautious of suspicious emails or messages.
Let’s work together to keep our information safe and secure.
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