Creating a secure password may seem simple, but in practice, it’s easy to fall into common traps that compromise your online safety. With cyber threats on the rise, protecting your accounts starts with understanding what not to do. Here are ten critical tips to help you avoid password pitfalls and keep your information secure.

1. Avoid Predictable Personal Information

Using obvious dates like birthdays, anniversaries, or family names in your passwords is risky. This information is often accessible through social media or a simple search, making it easy for hackers to guess.

2. Don’t Reuse Passwords

While it’s tempting to stick with one password across multiple sites, this habit is a security nightmare. If a hacker gains access to one account, they’ll potentially have access to all of them—banking, social media, and more.

3. Never Write Passwords in Plain Sight

Storing passwords on sticky notes near your computer is a no-go. A quick glance during your coffee break is all it takes for someone to compromise your security.

4. Skip Common Words and Sequences

Passwords like “password1234” or simple dictionary words are vulnerable to brute-force attacks. Instead, incorporate numbers, symbols, and both uppercase and lowercase letters into your passwords. Avoid common substitutions (e.g., “@” for “a”) as these are predictable.

5. Change Passwords Regularly

Even the most secure passwords benefit from regular updates. Aim to change your passwords every 30–90 days, especially for critical accounts.

6. Avoid Untrusted Devices

Be wary of entering your credentials on public or shared computers, such as those in libraries or kiosks. You never know if keylogging software is running in the background.

7. Stay Safe on Public Wi-Fi

Logging into accounts on free public Wi-Fi can expose your passwords to interception. Always use a secure network or a VPN when accessing sensitive information.

8. Opt for Lengthy Passwords

Short passwords are easier to crack. Aim for at least 12–16 characters, mixing symbols, numbers, and varying cases for added complexity.

9. Choose Strong Security Questions

If a site requires rescue security questions, avoid common ones like “Mother’s maiden name” or “First pet.” Hackers can often uncover these answers with basic research. Instead, choose obscure questions or create fictional answers.

10. Strive for Balance in Strength and Memorability

A password like “8%&KY4&$XzwMhfrk” may be nearly unbreakable, but it’s also hard to remember. Strike a balance—use a passphrase with random but meaningful elements, such as “!S@ilorM00nL0vesCats.”

The Bottom Line

In today’s digital landscape, password management is more important than ever. Following these ten tips will help you sidestep the most common pitfalls and keep your accounts secure. Cybersecurity starts with strong habits, so make each password count.