Here are some tips for elderly persons to set strong and memorable passwords for websites:
- Use a Passphrase: Instead of a single word, consider using a passphrase. A passphrase is a sequence of words or other text used to control access to a computer system, program or data. It’s easier to remember a phrase than a random string of characters.
- Make It Personal: Use something personal to you, but not easily guessable. For example, you could use a phrase that only you would know, like “MyFirstCarWasABlueToyota”.
- Mix It Up: Combine different types of characters (upper case, lower case, numbers, and symbols) to make your password stronger. For example, “Blu3Toy0ta!”.
- Avoid Common Words: Avoid using easily guessable words, like “password”, “123456”, “qwerty”, or “abc123”.
- Use a Password Manager: If you have trouble remembering passwords, consider using a password manager. This is a software application that helps you store and organize your passwords securely. Alternately, you can record your passwords offline in an Internet Password Logbook
- Don’t Share Your Password: Never share your password with anyone, even if they claim to be from the website or service you’re using.
- Change Your Password Regularly: It’s a good idea to change your passwords regularly, especially for important accounts like your email or online banking.
- Avoid Using the Same Password Everywhere: If one of your accounts is compromised, having the same password for all your accounts can make it easier for hackers to access your other accounts.
- Be Wary of Phishing: Be cautious of emails or messages asking for your password. Legitimate companies will never ask for your password via email or text message.
- Use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): If available, enable two-factor authentication for your accounts. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification, such as a code sent to your phone.
Remember, the key to a strong password is to make it both hard to guess and easy to remember.