A strong password is your first line of defense against cybercrime. Unfortunately, many people still use easy-to-hack passwords like “123456” and forget to log off when they use public computers, leaving their information vulnerable. To ensure your data is protected and prevent the need for computer repairs, it’s essential to create a secure password.

How to Strengthen Your Computer’s Password

1. Make It Longer

The longer the password, the more secure it is. Hackers now use software that can crack short passwords with seven characters or fewer in just seconds. However, long, complicated passwords that exceed 12 characters can thwart hacking attempts or make them much harder to pull off. 

2. Mix Things Up

Always use a combination of upper and lower case letters, numbers, and symbols. For instance, use “@” for “A,” “$” for “S,” “1” for “I,” or the number zero in place of the letter “O.” For example, something like “T00R@v1$hing#” would make a strong password. It's also a good idea to use different passwords for each specific website. Doing so keeps your data secure, even if you lend your device to a friend or leave it in the hands of a computer repair technician.

3. Come Up With a Phrase

Experts say using a passphrase is an effective security measure. The phrase should be about 20 characters long and made up of a combination of letters and numbers that you can easily remember but others won't guess, such as an acronym of a favorite quote or piece of poetry. You should also avoid well-known sequences like “QWERTY” or easy-to-find personal information, like your birth year.

If you suspect any of your digital devices have been hacked, take them to the computer repair experts at Experimax North Tampa in Hillsborough County, FL, for a thorough inspection. The highly skilled technicians at this computer repair shop also specialize in cellphone and laptop repairs and offer a wide range of pre-owned Apple^® products for anyone who is looking for an upgrade. Call (813) 280-2620 or visit them online to schedule an appointment.