How to Create a Strong and Unique Password

How to Create a Strong and Unique Password

I think over the past few years we, as a population, have heard “create a strong and unique password” so many times that we are numb to it, much like hearing a car alarm sounding in a crowded parking lot. You may look over, mumble that it’s annoying, but that’s usually about it; police are hardly ever called.

How to Create a Strong and Unique PasswordLike the car alarm, when used correctly, the password, too, is a very important security tool. In fact, there is an art to creating a password:

Step 1: Think of at least a 12-character password or longer. (How in the world are you going to remember that?!)

Step 2: Avoid names, places and dictionary words. (What’s left?!)

Step 3: Blend it all together by using variations of upper and lowercase letters, spelling, numbers, punctuation and special characters. (Too much trouble!)

Here’s an example using this password method: bre7E$ret98:!aZ

(Warning: Do NOT use this as your password; it’s NOT unique!)

Super simple to remember, right? Especially when security experts recommend that each and every one of our accounts should have a different password.

I don’t know about you, but I’m already frustrated, like fist-banging-on-desk, brain-exploding, give-up-and-just-use-1234-as-a-password frustrated! This is where password managers come in to save our sanity! Simply put, a password manager is a piece of software that organizes passwords and PINs via a file that stores and encrypts all the data. The software may also work as a form filler, automatically inserting user names and password data into forms. The only requirement for you is to remember ONE complex password, called the master password. Easy!

Coming tomorrow, July 11, 2014, will be 7 password manager Apps for Android and iOS that includes the number of stars, reviews, my opinion and a detailed description of each! You won’t want to miss this!

Until then, here's a tip: When shopping for the best password manager, keep in mind that 256-bit encryption, which is military-grade, is the highest available at this time.

About the Author

Ginger Hill is Group Social Media Manager.

Featured

  • Choosing the Right Solution

    Today, there is a strong shift from on-prem installations to cloud or hybrid-cloud deployments. As reported in the 2024 Genetec State of Physical Security report, 66% of end users said they will move to managing or storing more physical security in the cloud over the next two years. Read Now

  • New Report Reveals Top Security Risks for U.S. Retail Chains

    Interface Systems, a provider of security, actionable insights, and purpose-built networks for multi-location businesses, has released its 2024 State of Remote Video Monitoring in Retail Chains report. The detailed study analyzed over 2 million monitoring requests across 4,156 retail locations in the United States from September 2023 to August 2024. Read Now

  • Gaining a Competitive Edge

    Ask most companies about their future technology plans and the answers will most likely include AI. Then ask how they plan to deploy it, and that is where the responses may start to vary. Every company has unique surveillance requirements that are based on market focus, scale, scope, risk tolerance, geographic area and, of course, budget. Those factors all play a role in deciding how to configure a surveillance system, and how to effectively implement technologies like AI. Read Now

  • 6 Ways Security Awareness Training Empowers Human Risk Management

    Organizations are realizing that their greatest vulnerability often comes from within – their own people. Human error remains a significant factor in cybersecurity breaches, making it imperative for organizations to address human risk effectively. As a result, security awareness training (SAT) has emerged as a cornerstone in this endeavor because it offers a multifaceted approach to managing human risk. Read Now

Featured Cybersecurity

Webinars

New Products

  • Mobile Safe Shield

    Mobile Safe Shield

    SafeWood Designs, Inc., a manufacturer of patented bullet resistant products, is excited to announce the launch of the Mobile Safe Shield. The Mobile Safe Shield is a moveable bullet resistant shield that provides protection in the event of an assailant and supplies cover in the event of an active shooter. With a heavy-duty steel frame, quality castor wheels, and bullet resistant core, the Mobile Safe Shield is a perfect addition to any guard station, security desks, courthouses, police stations, schools, office spaces and more. The Mobile Safe Shield is incredibly customizable. Bullet resistant materials are available in UL 752 Levels 1 through 8 and include glass, white board, tack board, veneer, and plastic laminate. Flexibility in bullet resistant materials allows for the Mobile Safe Shield to blend more with current interior décor for a seamless design aesthetic. Optional custom paint colors are also available for the steel frame. 3

  • PE80 Series

    PE80 Series by SARGENT / ED4000/PED5000 Series by Corbin Russwin

    ASSA ABLOY, a global leader in access solutions, has announced the launch of two next generation exit devices from long-standing leaders in the premium exit device market: the PE80 Series by SARGENT and the PED4000/PED5000 Series by Corbin Russwin. These new exit devices boast industry-first features that are specifically designed to provide enhanced safety, security and convenience, setting new standards for exit solutions. The SARGENT PE80 and Corbin Russwin PED4000/PED5000 Series exit devices are engineered to meet the ever-evolving needs of modern buildings. Featuring the high strength, security and durability that ASSA ABLOY is known for, the new exit devices deliver several innovative, industry-first features in addition to elegant design finishes for every opening. 3

  • Automatic Systems V07

    Automatic Systems V07

    Automatic Systems, an industry-leading manufacturer of pedestrian and vehicle secure entrance control access systems, is pleased to announce the release of its groundbreaking V07 software. The V07 software update is designed specifically to address cybersecurity concerns and will ensure the integrity and confidentiality of Automatic Systems applications. With the new V07 software, updates will be delivered by means of an encrypted file. 3