Creating Safe Passwords

Why Strong Passwords Are Important

A password is a secret code that protects your online accounts. It's like a key that locks your house to keep strangers out. If someone gets your password, they can steal your money or personal information. They can even pretend to be you online.

Doors have locks to protect our homes. Passwords protect your online information. The more important the site or program you’re logging in to, the more important it is to have a strong password. For instance, the password to your online bank account should be very strong! Passwords help you:

• Keep your information safe from strangers

• Prevent theft – Protect your money and identity from thieves

• Stop hackers – Keep them from breaking into your accounts

• Keep your family and friends safe from fake messages

Password Safety

• Don’t share your password with anyone but close family. 

• Cover your hands when typing your password in public.

• Don’t say your password out loud in a public place. 

• Never write your password down and leave it in a public place. Example: Don’t write your password down and leave it on a sticky note on your work computer.

• Always log out of the computer you are using in a public place like the library. 

What is 2-step Authentification?

Two-step authentication is a way to make your accounts safer. It uses two steps to check that it’s really you when you log in.

How it Works:

Step 1: Enter Your Password

• First, you enter your password.

Step 2: Enter a Code

• After you enter your password, the website or app sends a special code to your phone or email.

• Enter the code to finish logging in.