Why is it Important to Have a Strong Password?
Passwords are an important part of our digital lives. Have you ever considered the implications of what would happen if your password was stolen? How many accounts would someone be able to access with just one of your passwords?
In many cases, anybody with access to your password would be able to see all sorts of confidential information. They may be able to view personal and professional data, modify or delete files, or even access your bank account.
Despite this, ‘123456’ remains one of the most commonly used passwords in the world.
How Do I Create a Strong Password?
UBC recommends creating a passphrase of at least 16 characters. Passphrases are easy for you to remember but too long for someone to guess. For example, "sunshine blue trees swimming" or for an even shorter version: "sunshine blue trees".
Alternatively, you can use a combination of upper and lower-case letters, numbers, and symbols at least eight characters in length. Consider creating an acronym for a phrase that you can easily remember. For example, SrahoSi#1986 refers to “She rode a horse on Saturday in 1986”.
To keep information and accounts secure, do not re-use your UBC passwords/phrases with personal systems like Yahoo or Google. For extra security, it is advisable to use a unique password or passphrase for each user account. Remember to change your passwords annually.
Consider installing a password management application to create unique passwords for all of your needs and secure that list of passwords with a common master password. View our setting up a password manager information page for practical step-by-step instructions and best practices for setting up a password manager, as well as a grid that compares some of the top products.
Remember: UBC officials will never ask you for your password. If you receive a suspicious message asking you to provide your password, it will likely be a phishing email.