5 Tips to Managing Your Passwords

1. Easy way to select and remember a complex password:

- Select a base word that is easy for you to remember. For example, say you once lived in New York.

- Add at least one capital letter and either a number or special character e.g. n3wyorK?

- Add more words and numbers to create a phrase e.g. "n3wyorK?wascoldin‘87", but don't get too crazy or you will tend to forget them. Complex passwords need to be complex for hackers and hacking tools, but not too complex for you to recall easily.

2. Store your password safely - Now you can write down a password hint that reminds you of how your password is constructed. E.g. c1tY? in winter in the eighties will remind you to substitute the 3 and K! in the city name, then add the wascold in ’87. This would remind you of your password while revealing nothing to any roaming eyes.

3. Keep your passwords secret - Treat your passwords with as much care as the information that they protect. Keep your passwords to yourself. Never provide your password via e-mail or based on an e-mail request. Change your passwords regularly, so as a hacker progresses with guessing your password, they have to start their process all over again when you change it.

4. Be careful on shared computers - Computers such as those in Internet cafés and airport lounges should not be used for anything requiring your password, including checking sensitive e-mails or bank transactions. These computers may contain devices or software that can capture your passwords.

5. Monitor all password-protected information - such as your bank statements and online shopping accounts. If you notice any suspicious activity, change all of your passwords immediately and notify any relevant authorities.

Talk to your local Computer Troubleshooter about other security tips and strategies to protect your valuable information.