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Creating Passwords  
 
Summary: Use this checklist to create and remember passwords and to assure the security of your data, computer, and networks.
What to do How to do it
Create safe passwords. Common passwords invite hackers and viruses to access your personal data. Increase your protection with these techniques:
  • Use at least six characters although seven are preferable. Maximums and miminums vary with appications.
  • Don't use names or words of more than four letters found in the dictionary. Try substituting numbers for vowels if your password is identified as a dictionary word.
  • Avoid strings of numbers such as a birth date, social security number, or phone number.
  • Mix upper- and lower-case letters.
  • Include symbols in addition to letters and numbers.
  • Avoid consecutive numbers or letters from the alphabet or keyboard.
Remember your passwords. Experts strongly advise against writing down your passwords. Instead, follow these methods to remember them:
  • Combine memorable words and numbers to make a more secure password, such as J3o8h46n, based on John's name and his birth date of 3/8/46.
  • Use a system of themes and replacement keys. For example, use names of fruits, such as orange, tangerine, and apple, for a password theme. Then use symbols to replace certain letters in the passwords, e.g., use # to replace the letter N and [ in place of E.
  • Base your password on a familiar poem or song. For instance, "In Xanadu did Kublai Kahn a stately pleasure dome decree ..." could be InXd2K, a mixture of upper- and lower-case letters and a number.
Protect your computer and passwords. Optimize password security with these practices:
  • Log out or start a password-protected screensaver when your workstation is not in use.
  • Don't use the same password for all purposes.
  • Don't share passwords with others or send them via e-mail.
  • Don't let your Web browser remember your passwords. Public or shared computers allow others access to your password.


Questions? Contact the ACT Help Desk, (858) 534-1853.

Note: This page has a friendly link that’s easy to remember: http://blink.ucsd.edu/go/passwords



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Last reviewed/updated on July 16, 2008 (see more info)
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