Because all @lexingtonma.org accounts are managed by the school, you do not have as much control over password security as with a private email account. If you ever have concerns that your password has been compromised, email one or all of the DLC staff (listed on the main page) immediately.
Never give a friend access to your password as it gives them the ability to access a great deal of information about you.
Avoid setting up personal accounts or password information linked to your school account for a non-school purpose: e.g., setting up a bank account using your school email address.
Do not use your lexingtonma account password for any other accounts.
If you are setting up an account yourself for the first time, here are some good recommendations:
Always use a password that includes:
A minimum of 8-9 characters
A mix of upper and lower case letters
At least one number
At least one symbol, such as &, %, or *
Avoid using identifiable information or information that can be looked up. e.g. your birthday, your pet's name, or your favorite sportsball team
Try creating a passphrase. A passphrase is a sentence that you can then use to remember and generate your password. Example: I met Sam in Boston in 2011 = ImSiBi#2011 (don't use this one)
Use Two-Factor Authentication. This is an additional layer of security which requires you to enter an additional code when logging on to a device for the first time (or every time if you want). The code can be sent to you via text or email. (Link to do this for your google account).
Choose a pin number on your device with as many numbers as are allowed. As of 2018, iPhones allow 4 or 6 digit pins: go with 6.
Do not choose easy to guess numbers, like your birthday or the PLU code for organic bananas (94011 every supermarket worker knows this one).
If your phone has the pattern method of getting in, do not choose a common geometric shape, like a square. Choose something more random and complicated.