We all have a growing number of accounts, websites and other security measures which require an endless number of passwords. However, a primary rule of good password practices is to never use the same password twice. Another standard password practice is to reset your passwords every 30, 60 or 90 days. So how in the world do you keep all those passwords straight?
I learned some great tips over the years that helped me remember my passwords and when to change them. More important, I learned a way to make password changes creative and actually enjoyable. Here are some of my favorite tips:
1. Objectives as Passwords
Make your password relevant. Make each password a personal objective to remind and inspire you at each sign in. It is important this objective is not something an external party could guess (such as an objective you state publicly). Here are some sample objectives:
- Weight loss goal
- Debt reduction target
- Someone you want to build a strong relationship with
- A project you want to launch
- Sales goal for the quarter
2. Include the Time
3. Substitute Numbers for Letters
4. Rotate on Key Dates
5. Group According to Risk Exposure
Examples
- 1bs159d4y (15 pounds in 90 days)
- 9day1c4rd (90 days, 1 card)
- J0nDoe60 (Jon Doe, 60 days)
