‍Strong passwords are the first line of defense for your accounts & business systems. Weak or reused passwords are a major cybersecurity risk — but with a few simple tips, you can create secure credentials that are both strong & manageable.

‍✅ Why Strong Passwords Matter:
‍Cybercriminals use automated tools to guess passwords by the thousands in seconds. Simple passwords like Password123, Welcome1, or your pet’s name can be cracked instantly. Strong, complex passwords greatly reduce your risk of compromise.

‍🧠 What Makes a Strong Password?
‍A secure password should:
• Be at least 12 characters long (16+ is better).
• Use a mix of uppercase, lowercase, numbers, & symbols.
• Avoid common words, names, or patterns.
• Be unique — never reused across multiple sites.

‍❌ Weak Examples:
• 123456
• Summer2024!
• CompanyName2024

‍✅ Strong Examples:
• B!9g#vXk@4$Lw1pZ
• T!m3To$ecur3!Th1s

Pro Tip: Use a passphrase — a short sentence made of random words: SpaghettiBicycle!RainDance2024

‍🔏 Use a Password Manager:
‍Memorizing dozens of complex passwords isn’t realistic. A password manager can:
• Generate & store strong passwords.
• Autofill credentials safely.
• Sync across your devices.

Recommended tools:
• 1Password
• Bitwarden
• Dashlane

‍Your password manager itself should be protected with a strong master password & Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA).

‍🔁 Rotate Passwords Regularly:
‍Change critical passwords (email, financial, admin accounts) every 90–180 days. Never share passwords — if sharing access is required, use secure team-sharing features in a password manager

‍🧩 How to Remember Without a Manager (if you must):
‍If you prefer not to use a manager:
• Use a memorable passphrase with slight variations per site. Example:
• BlueHorseCoffee1969@G (for Google).
• BlueHorseCoffee1969@A (for Amazon).
• Don’t write passwords on sticky notes. If you must store them offline, use a locked cabinet or encrypted file.

‍🔐 Enable MFA Everywhere:
‍Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is your safety net. Even if a password is stolen, MFA stops unauthorized access. We recommend: • Google Authenticator• Authy• YubiKey (hardware token)

‍Need More Help?
‍Our team can help set up secure password practices & MFA across your organization.

💬Still Having Trouble? Submit a ticket or Let’s Connect! for Help:
‍🛟 Open a Support Ticket
‍📬 Email support@stumptownmsp.com
📞Call 503-735-4774
🕒Support Hours: Monday – Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM PT
🗓️Book your Free Network Security Assessment