Passwords

Stronger passwords = stronger protection!

Strong passwords are a vital defence against unauthorised access to your online accounts.

By using strong, complex passwords for each of your accounts, you will reduce the potential for a cybercriminal to access your account and help keep your sensitive data safe.

Here are some tips on using passwords:

• A strong password typically includes a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.
• Longer is better - use ‘3 random words’ to make a passphrase – connect three random words that mean something to you together, such as HappyLaptopRabbit
• Avoid using predictable words such as ‘password’, Password1, etc
• Avoid using personal information such as dates, family member or pets names, or references to the place where you live or things that you like such as ‘LiverpoolFC’ – hackers look on social media to find out these things about you
• Don’t re-use the same password across multiple accounts - if you do and one of your accounts is compromised then your other accounts will also become vulnerable to attack
• Use a reputable password manager to securely keep track of your login credentials
• Don’t tell your password to anyone!

Remember
If you think your password may have been compromised, change it immediately.

Using passwords to protect your devices and data

More information for individuals can be found on the National Cyber Security Centre. Useful articles include: Advice on how to stay secure online and Cyber Action Plan.