How to set strong passwords
Key takeaways
- Use a mix of characters: Combine uppercase letters (A-Z), lowercase letters (a-z), numbers (0-9), and special symbols (!, @, #, etc.). For example, "Ex@mpl3!p455w0rd#".
- Make it long: Aim for at least 12 characters.
- Avoid common words: Don’t use easily guessable words like "password" or number sequences like "123456". Instead, try a phrase or a combination of unrelated words.
- Use a password manager: Consider using a password manager to create and store strong passwords for you.
Why is it important to set strong passwords?
BeConnected says it best; Passwords help protect your most important personal information and prevent others from accessing that information.
Setting strong passwords is crucial because it makes that access difficult even for powerful computer programs that can make millions of guesses every second. Weak passwords can be easy even for a human to guess if they know even a little bit of information about you.
This guide follows information found on the BeConnected website and the Optus Digital Thumbprint website to give you the basics of how to set a strong password and some steps to have in mind if you do have an online account accessed without your permission.
Making a password strong
Follow these tips to strengthen your passwords and keep your online accounts secure.
Use a mix of characters.
Combine uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters (like !, @, #, $) to create a stronger password.
Make it long.
Aim for at least 12 characters. The longer the password, the harder it is to guess and the longer it would take for an automated computer program to run through all the possible combinations of characters in a password.
Avoid common words and patterns.
Don’t use information that someone could easily associate with your account like your name, birthdate, or common words like “password” or “123456”.
Use passphrases
Create a phrase made up of random words. These can be harder to guess but easier for you to remember.
Change passwords regularly
Update your passwords periodically to enhance security. Usually once or twice a year is enough according to eSafety.
Don’t reuse passwords
This way, if one account is compromised, your other accounts remain secure.
Consider a password manager
These tools can generate and store complex passwords for you, so you don’t have to remember them all.
Tip
It is recommended that you don't save your banking passwords to your browser, even if your device is protected by a passcode. It is however safe to save your banking Client number.
You should never save passwords to your browser when using public computers in libraries or other places where they're offered free for use.
Additional resources for learning
Take some time to watch the video and read through the PDF booklet below, then try out the activities to see if your security skills are improving!
eSafety Video on Password Security
Optus Digital Thumbprint PDF guide
Protecting your identity - Passphrases, Passwords, and MFA
Download the PDF
Ready to put your knowledge to the test?
BeConnected activity
The importance of strong and secure passwords.
In this activity you’ll learn what makes for a strong and secure password. You’ll also find out about computer-generated passwords and how they can be safer and keep your personal details more secure.
Finally, you’ll learn you should periodically change your passwords, to be as safe as possible online.
Optus Digital Thumbprint quiz
Can you build a strong passphrase?
Learn how to protect your personal information with passwords, passphrases and Multi Factor Authentication (MFA).
What to do if your accounts are compromised
Stay calm, act quickly and follow these steps:
Change your password immediately
If you suspect your account has been hacked, change your password right away.
Enable multifactor authentication
This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification.
Check your account activity
Look for any suspicious activity or unauthorised access.
Contact the service provider
Inform the company or service that your account has been compromised. They can help secure your account and provide further instructions.
Monitor your other accounts
If one account is compromised, others might be at risk. Keep an eye on your other accounts for any unusual activity.
By following these tips and using the resources provided, you can create strong passwords that help keep your accounts and personal information safe.
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