Drowning in passwords

If you are like me and millions of others online, you've got more than one password--many more. You may have one that is six or seven letters or one that combines letters and numbers. There could be one that is all lower case and some that mix upper and lower. The question is how do you remember your passwords and where do you go to keep track of them?

You're sharp enough to realize that identity theft is a big problem so it's important to prevent illegal access to personal and financial data. You may be someone who uses the same password for every site you access. Or you may be someone who always uses his or her Social Security number, which is one of the biggest "no-no's" in the security world.

There are several strategies you can use and ways to remember the password when you need it. Here are a few tips:

• A Windows program called RoboForm from Siber Systems stores your passwords, usernames, personal information and the URLs of sites you visit on its secure server. Your information is protected by a master password.
• 1Password provides the same features for use on Apple hardware.
• If you don't want to spend the money, you could put your passwords in a password-protected file.

At the end of the day, be smart about your passwords. Don't use your Social Security number or your street address. Forget about your dog's name or your son's. Be creative and be aware that a password is the first line of defense against identity theft.

For more on secure passwords:
- see this CIO.com article

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