Many people choose a password that’s easy to remember –an address, pet’s name or special date. The problem is, this is easy information for attackers to obtain.

With a little effort and creativity, you can create unique passwords for each of your online accounts keeping your identity and information safe.

GetCyberSafe.ca contains practical tips on creating strong passwords, such as:

• Make sure your password is a minimum of eight characters.

• Use a combination of upper and lower case letters and at least one number and one symbol.

• Be creative. Try a mix of your pet’s name, your favourite numbers, the street you grew up on or other combinations. Make it even tougher by changing some of the letters to numbers (e.g. use a “3” to replace an “e”).

Other tips to keep you protected

• Password-protect all your devices: computers, tablets and smart phones.

• Make sure sites are secure before you enter your password.

• Never use your name, birthday, driver’s licence or passport number.

• Commit your passwords to memory and don’t store them on your computer or in your mobile phone.

• Change your passwords often.

• If a website or browser asks to keep you signed in, un-click that option. Re-enter your password each time.

• Clear your browsing history or cache after online banking and shopping.

• If you get an email that includes a password you’ve just set up, delete it.

• Use different passwords for different online accounts.

Courtesy of Newscanada