How to Make Passwords You Can Actually Remember
Hello, you.
The best password is long, not clever. Here's the easy way.
USE A PASSPHRASE
- String together four or more random words: teapot-violet-ladder-sunday.
- Long beats complicated. A passphrase is easier to remember and harder to crack than P@ssw0rd1.
- Don't use song lyrics, names, birthdays or anything on your Facebook.
ONE FOR EACH
- Use a different password for email, banking and social media. If one leaks, the others stay safe.
- Your email password matters most. Whoever has your email can reset everything else.
LET SOMETHING REMEMBER THEM FOR YOU
- A password manager stores them all behind one strong passphrase. iPhones and Android phones have one built in, and there are trusted apps too.
- Turn on two-factor authentication wherever it's offered, especially email and banking.
- Never share a code that's texted to you. Not with your bank, not with "tech support", not with anyone.
More help: cyber.gov.au (Australian Cyber Security Centre)
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