Your Tech Makeover

Passwords are the first line of defense for almost everything you do online — and most people's are not good enough. This episode breaks down what makes a password strong, shares some surprisingly easy tricks for creating ones you can actually remember, and explains why the old approach of "one password for everything" is a problem.In this episode, you'll learn:- Why the days of short, simple passwords are over — and what the new standard looks like- The "phrase method" for creating passwords that are both long and easy to remember- How the first-letter trick works and why it creates surprisingly strong passwords- Why you should use a different password for your email, banking, and other important accounts- What kinds of passwords you should never use (your name, your pet's name, "password" — yes, people still do this)- Where to find reputable tools online for testing the strength of a passwordThis is part one of a two-part series on passwords. Part two covers password management software — how to stop memorizing and start letting a tool do the work.Have a topic you'd like Frank to cover? Reach out at frank@yourtechmakeover.com.Learn more at YourTechMakeover.com.To test the power of your passwords, you can try them at LastPass.com or https://howsecureismypassword.net.

Show Notes

Passwords are the first line of defense for almost everything you do online — and most people's are not good enough. This episode breaks down what makes a password strong, shares some surprisingly easy tricks for creating ones you can actually remember, and explains why the old approach of "one password for everything" is a problem.
In this episode, you'll learn:- Why the days of short, simple passwords are over — and what the new standard looks like- The "phrase method" for creating passwords that are both long and easy to remember- How the first-letter trick works and why it creates surprisingly strong passwords- Why you should use a different password for your email, banking, and other important accounts- What kinds of passwords you should never use (your name, your pet's name, "password" — yes, people still do this)- Where to find reputable tools online for testing the strength of a password
This is part one of a two-part series on passwords. Part two covers password management software — how to stop memorizing and start letting a tool do the work.
Have a topic you'd like Frank to cover? Reach out at frank@yourtechmakeover.com.
Learn more at YourTechMakeover.com.
To test the power of your passwords, you can try them at LastPass.com or https://howsecureismypassword.net.


What is Your Tech Makeover?

Everyone has tech issues, and they’re usually because things are more complicated than they need to be.
Your Tech Makeover helps everyday people simplify and get more out of the technology in their lives.
Host Frank Bravo shares practical tech tips and easy-to-understand explanations about smartphones, smart homes, cloud storage, passwords, Wi-Fi, AI tools, and other everyday technology.
If you want technology to feel simpler instead of more frustrating, this podcast is for you.