AVERT Labs - Password Security Tips
Some excellent suggestions can be found on password management in this article. The Microsoft security password checker is
Some key considerations are:
- Don't use same universal password for all sites. When one is discovered, all accounts may be compromised)
- Use password complexity. Microsoft has a good website to test passwords (see link at bottom). I avoid creating highly complex passwords as noted in the article. However, I always mix case, letters, numbers. I've also started using the '-' (dash) and '$" as special characters to create passwords that are meaningful but not too cryptic.
- Keep password master lists secure. Hide them carefully and name any electronic versions so that they will not be easily discovered.
- Change passwords on a regular basis. Incrementing passwords (e.g., Rainbow03, Rainbow06, Rainbow09) is one technique to help recall past ones and stay safe (esp. if you don't increment by 1).
- Avoid sharing your passwords with others. Be careful when responding to email or websites requesting it.
AVERT Labs - Password Security Tips
http://www.avertlabs.com/research/blog/index.php/2009/11/25/make-your-password-secure/
QUOTE: No matter how sophisticated security gets, we still need to handle the basics properly. One of the most basic tasks is to create and use secure passwords. You need them to log onto your computer, reach internal applications, and enter just about every website you visit. They are pervasive in our connected world.
MICROSOFT SECURITY PASSWORD CHECKER
(you can enter passwords here for testing)
http://www.microsoft.com/protect/fraud/passwords/checker.aspx