Take the World Password Day pledge to protect yourself online
Create strong and unique passwords by combining three unrelated words
World Password Day, on Thursday May 1, is a timely reminder to take simple steps that could stop cybercriminals from accessing your personal information and accounts.
The Wiltshire Bobby Van Trust’s Stay Safe Online Team is encouraging everyone to take the password pledge and boost their online safety by following three quick and effective steps.
With more than 100 passwords to remember on average, it’s no wonder people fall into bad habits – but that doesn’t mean your accounts have to be vulnerable.
Here’s how you can take the password pledge:
Use three random words: Create strong and unique passwords by combining three unrelated words. This makes them easier to remember but hard to crack.
Don’t reuse passwords: Make sure each of your accounts has its own password. Using the same one repeatedly makes you an easy target.
Turn on two-factor authentication: Adding an extra layer of protection means even if someone knows your password, they still can’t get in.
Toni Evans, Wiltshire Bobby Van Trust Stay Safe Online Manager, said: "World Password Day is a great reminder that even small changes, like updating an old password or turning on two-factor authentication, can make a big difference in keeping your information safe online.
”The team has seen first-hand how online fraud can spiral into serious financial and emotional harm for victims and the risks are real.”
The word “Password” has been used over 3.2 million times — and can be cracked instantly. Common choices like ‘Password123’ or names and birthdates are among the first hackers try.
Here are our top password tips:
Make every password unique.
Avoid using personal information like names or birthdays.
Use a password manager or browser save function to keep track safely.
Make World Password Day the moment you check and improve your security, and consider doing the same every year.
If you think you’ve been targeted by cybercriminals, report it online or call 101. You can also report it directly at actionfraud.police.uk/reporting-fraud-and-cyber-crime.