Here are some essential tips for creating strong and secure passwords:

1. Use a mix of characters – Combine uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols to make your password harder to crack.

2. Make it long – Aim for at least 12-16 characters to increase security. The longer, the better.

3. Avoid common words and patterns – Don’t use “password123,” your name, birthdate, or simple sequences like “abc123” or “qwerty.”

4. Use passphrases – A random but memorable sentence like "BlueTacos!Run4Ever" is easier to remember and more secure.

5. Don’t reuse passwords – Use a unique password for each account to prevent hackers from gaining access to multiple sites if one gets compromised.

6. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) – This adds an extra layer of security beyond just a password.

7. Use a password manager – These tools generate and store strong passwords securely so you don’t have to remember them all.

8. Change passwords periodically – Especially for critical accounts like banking and email, update passwords every few months.

By following these tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of being hacked and keep your online accounts safe.