Avoid common words and patterns
Don’t use your name, birthdate, or simple words like “password” or “123456”.
How to set strong passwords
Key takeaways
- Strong passwords help protect your information.
- Use a long, unique password for each account.
- Use extra security like multifactor authentication or password managers.
Strong passwords help keep your accounts and personal information safe.
Weak passwords can be easy to guess, even by someone who doesn’t know you.
How to make a strong password
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Make it long
Aim for at least 12 characters. The longer the password, the harder it is to guess.
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Use passphrases
Create a phrase made up of random words, such as “blue flying headphones”. These can be harder to guess but easier for you to remember. -
Use a mix of characters
Use uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers and special characters (!, @, #, $). You can do this with your passphrase, such as “Blu3 fLY1in@ h3@Dph0ne$?”.
How to keep your passwords safe
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Change passwords regularly
Remake your passwords once or twice a year. Remember to make the new password strong! -
Use different passwords
Don’t use the same password for more than one account. This way, if someone guesses your password, your other accounts stay safe.
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Store passwords safely
Don't save important passwords in your internet browser or an unsecured file, even if your device has a password. -
Be careful on public computers
Don’t save passwords on public computers, such as at a public library.
Increase your security
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Use multifactor authentication (Australian Cyber Security)
Many accounts have a multifactor authentication (MFA) or two-factor authentication (2FA) option. This usually means you will need to add a code as well as your password when you log in. This adds more security for your account. -
Consider a password manager (Be Connected)
Password managers are tools that can make and store strong passwords. This helps if you have too many passwords to remember.
If someone gets into your account
If someone gets past your password and security, follow these simple steps:
- Change your password immediately. Remember to make the new password strong.
- Check your account for any strange activity or changes.
- Contact the service provider and tell them that someone has found a way to access your account. Follow their advice to help protect your account.
- Watch your other accounts. If someone got into one account, they may try to access your other accounts. Keep an eye on your other accounts for any strange activity.
Learn more
Watch the video and read the PDF guide below. Then, try out the activities to test your security skills!
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Video: How to make effective passwords (eSafety)
Learn why strong passwords matter and how to create and manage them to keep your information safe. -
PDF: Passphrases, Passwords, and MFA (Optus)
Understand how passphrases, secure passwords and multifactor authentication (MFA) work together to protect your personal information. -
Activity: The importance of strong and secure passwords (Be Connected)
Explore why strong, secure passwords matter and how they help keep you safe online. -
Quiz: Can you build a strong passphrase? (Optus)
Test your knowledge by building a strong passphrase to protect your information.
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