Passwords protect almost everything we do online, from banking to shopping to emails. Yet many people find them confusing or frustrating, especially when websites keep asking for longer and more complicated combinations. At Troubleshoot IT, I often meet clients who write their passwords on bits of paper, reuse the same one for every account, or lock themselves out completely. It is more common than you might think.

The good news is that strong passwords do not need to be hard to remember. The secret is to create passphrases rather than random strings of letters and numbers.

What is a passphrase?

A passphrase is a short sentence or set of words that only you would think of. For example, instead of using “Tg#9x4!” you could use “BlueDogEatsIcecream!” or “MorningTeaAtMums2024”. These are long enough to be secure, but easy to recall.

The longer your password is, the stronger it becomes. Try using four or five random words together, or a personal phrase that no one else would guess. You can also mix capital letters, numbers, or punctuation for extra strength.

Tips for safer passwords

1. Use a different password for each important account.
   Your email, banking, and social media should never share the same password. If one account is hacked, the others stay protected.
2. Turn on two-step verification.
   Many services such as Microsoft, Google, and Facebook offer an extra layer of security that sends a code to your phone or email before anyone can log in.
3. Avoid using personal details.
   Do not use your name, birthday, or the word “password”. These are the first things hackers try.
4. Store passwords safely.
   Use a password manager or keep a secure written list in a private place at home. Never share your passwords over text or email.

Making life simpler

Once people understand how passphrases work, they often feel a huge sense of relief. Instead of struggling to remember random characters, you can think in words, phrases, and small stories. It turns password management from a stressful chore into a simple habit.

At Troubleshoot IT, I help people across Darwin and the Northern Territory, and through remote sessions across Australia, to build practical technology skills and online safety habits. A little guidance goes a long way in keeping you secure and confident online.