Keep Your Passwords Safe
Ideally, you would never write down your passwords, but it is becoming difficult to do with so many accounts. If you have to write them down, keep them locked in a safe or some other secure environment. Passwords on Post It notes are a recipe for disaster. Don’t do it!
Don’t share your passwords with other, not even friends or family members. If someone has to use one of your accounts, log them in instead of sharing your password. Don’t give out your password over the phone unless you have initiated the phone call. For example, you may receive a phone call from your Internet Service Provider asking for your password. Ask for their phone number, cal them back, then give out your password. Telephone conversations are not considered secure. Neither are online chat, email, or instant messaging.
Change your passwords regularly. A new password every 45 days is a good practice. Having the same passwords for years is a weak security practice. Set yourself reminders in your calendar. Make it a routine procedure. You’ll see that after a few months, it becomes a habit.
Avoid typing your password on public computers. Unfortunately, many public computers have been compromised, making their users vulnerable for malicious keystroke logging scripts.