Why accounts get taken over
Most break-ins are not clever hacking. Often a password leaked from one website is tried on others, or someone is tricked into typing it into a fake login page.
If you use the same password everywhere, one leak can unlock your email, social accounts and shopping apps at once. That is why uniqueness matters as much as strength.
What makes a password strong
Length beats complexity. A passphrase of four or more random words, such as a few unrelated nouns joined together, is easier to remember and harder to guess than a short jumble of symbols.
Avoid names, birthdays, pet names, football teams and anything visible in your posts. Those are the first things an attacker tries.
Let a password manager remember
Nobody can remember dozens of unique passphrases. A password manager stores them in an encrypted vault behind one strong master password, and can create random passwords for you.
Many phones and browsers include a built-in password manager, and there are standalone apps too. Choose a reputable one and protect it with a passphrase you have never used anywhere else.
Two-factor authentication explained
Two-factor authentication, often called 2FA or two-step verification, adds a second check after your password, such as a code from an authenticator app, a text message or an approval on a trusted device. Even if someone steals your password, they still cannot log in.
Authenticator apps and passkeys are generally more secure than text messages, but any 2FA is far better than none. Turn it on first for your email, because email is used to reset everything else.
Avoid the tricks that bypass it
No genuine company will ask you to send your login code to someone. If a message, call or DM asks for your code, it is a scam, even if it looks official or comes from a friend's account.
Save your backup codes somewhere safe offline. If you lose your phone, they let you back into your accounts without needing support.
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to store passwords in my browser?
Built-in browser and phone password managers are much safer than reusing one password. Protect the device with a screen lock and turn on 2FA for the account that syncs them.
What should I do if I think my password leaked?
Change it right away on that account and any others where you used it, sign out of other sessions, and turn on two-factor authentication if it was not already on.