Create secure passwords to keep your identity safe

Privacy and Security Privacy and Security Last updated: 77% of users voted this helpful

Choosing more secure passwords will help keep your identity safe on the internet. This article will show you how to create secure, easy-to-remember passwords.

Mozilla offers this guide as a public service. Remember, no security measures can guarantee 100% protection, and this article does not provide a warranty or guarantee of your passwords' security.

Step 1: Choose a unique phrase

Begin with a simple yet unique phrase that is meaningful to you. This phrase should not be a common saying or easily guessable. For example, First things first could serve as a strong foundation for your password.

Step 2: Add special characters

Transform your phrase into a complex password by incorporating a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. From First things first, a password could be crafted as F1r$tTh1ng$F1r$t!

Be mindful of the special characters allowed on different websites, as some may have restrictions.

Step 3: Invent a unique password for each website using personal insights

Generate an entirely unique password for each website by drawing on personal insights and experiences relevant to that specific site:

  • For a project management tool: Inspired by your approach to prioritizing tasks, such as Task1Priority@2024!
  • For an online shopping site: Reflecting your habit of comparing products before making a purchase, like CompareFirst@Shop2024!
  • For a fitness tracking app: Tying in your fitness philosophy, like HealthFirst@Fit2024!

This approach ensures each of your passwords is robust, secure, and deeply personal, making them extremely difficult for others to guess.

Final thoughts

While some websites may limit the length of passwords, it's crucial to use the maximum allowed characters for enhanced security. If you encounter a site with a limit, ensure your password is as complex and unique as the site allows.

By following these steps, you significantly increase your online security. Remember, the goal is to make your passwords hard to guess and unique to each site, thereby protecting your digital identity.

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