Parenting Pointers: Passwords

We all know we need secure passwords for online sites, especially email and finance sites, but it can be really hard to remember them all, since you aren't supposed to repeat sensitive passwords between sites. Well, the Master Lock Vault, from the makers of padlocks and other physical security items, is designed to help keep your digital information secure, and easy to access.



The Vault keeps passwords and combinations in the application, and is protected by 256 bit encryption. The app is available for free for iPhone/iPad/iPod Touch. It is very easy to enter - and retrieve - passwords, and makes it easier to have secure passwords since you don't have to worry about remembering them, even if you're on the go!

More tips from Master Lock about password security:
* Never use the same password for multiple accounts
* Never write down your password in a public place, such as in a Rolodex or on a sticky note on your computer monitor
* Never create passwords that are easy to crack, such as
o Default passwords (guest, admin)
o Dictionary words (rabbit, Packers)
o Words with numbers appended (password1)
o Words with simple obfuscation (p@ssw0rd)
o Double words (fishfish)
o Common keyboard sequences (qwerty)
o Common numeric sequences (911)
o Identifiers (555-1234, 01/12/1965)
o Anything personally related to you (license plate number, birthday)