Strong Passwords

A password is a secret word or phrase that proves you are allowed into an account. Weak passwords are short or common, like password123 or your pet's name. People trying to break in guess those first because many accounts still use them.

Strong passwords are longer and mix letters, numbers and symbols. Better still, use a passphrase: four random words with spaces, like purple-turtle-dance-cloud. It is easier to remember and hard to guess.

Open the password meter lab and type different examples. Watch how length and variety change the strength score.

If you reuse one password everywhere, a leak on a game site could unlock your email too. Treat each important account as needing its own secret.

School accounts, email and social apps deserve unique passwords. For low-risk sites you may still choose carefully, but never copy your main password.

A password manager is an app that stores encrypted passwords behind one master password. Many phones include one. Ask a trusted adult before installing anything new.

Never share passwords with friends, even as a joke. Never type a password on a shared school computer unless you change it later from a trusted device.

Two-step verification adds a code from your phone after the password. Turn it on for email when your school or family allows it.

Next you will learn to spot phishing messages that try to steal those passwords.