Password Security Best Practices: Protect Your Accounts

Password Security Best Practices

Passwords remain the primary line of defense for your online accounts. Weak or reused passwords are the leading cause of account compromises. Following modern password best practices dramatically reduces your risk of being hacked.

What Makes a Strong Password

• Length: At least 16 characters. Longer is better than more complex
• Uniqueness: Every account should have a different password
• Randomness: Avoid dictionary words, personal information, and predictable patterns
• Passphrases: A string of random words (e.g., correct horse battery staple) is both strong and memorable

Use a Password Manager

Password managers are the most important security tool for managing modern online life:

• Bitwarden: Open-source, free tier available, cross-platform
• 1Password: Polished interface, travel mode feature, family plans
• KeePassXC: Offline, open-source, maximum control over your data
• Generate unique passwords for every account automatically
• Store passwords in an encrypted vault protected by one master password
• Auto-fill passwords in browsers and apps safely

Common Password Mistakes

• Password reuse: Using the same password on multiple sites. One breach exposes all your accounts
• Simple modifications: Adding 1 or ! to the end of a common password does not make it secure
• Personal information: Pet names, birthdays, and addresses are easily guessable
• Dictionary words: Common words, even with substitutions (p@ssw0rd), are easily cracked
• Writing on sticky notes: Physical exposure of passwords is a significant risk

Additional Account Security

• Enable two-factor authentication on every account that supports it
• Use hardware security keys (YubiKey) for highest-value accounts
• Monitor for breaches at HaveIBeenPwned and change compromised passwords immediately
• Use your anonymous eSIM phone number for account recovery to prevent SIM swap attacks
• Regularly review and remove unused accounts

A password manager with unique, generated passwords for every account is the single most impactful security improvement most people can make. It takes an afternoon to set up and protects you for life.