Strong passwords are vital to your online security. Using easy-to-guess or common passwords, using the same password for multiple accounts, and sharing your passwords with others all risk compromising the security of your online accounts. A strong password follows these rules: at least 8-12 characters long, uses upper and lowercase letters, includes at least one number and one symbol, does not use real words found in the dictionary, does not use your personal information, like a child’s or pet’s name, is different than your other account passwords, you change it on a regular basis.