Best Practices for Secure Passwords

Strong passwords are one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your accounts, devices, and business data from unauthorised access. Weak or reused passwords are a major security risk — follow the tips below to keep your credentials safe.

Why Password Security Matters

Cybercriminals use stolen, guessed, or leaked passwords to access systems and data. Once inside, they can:

• Steal sensitive information

• Lock you out of your own systems

• Spread malware across your network

• Demand ransom payments (ransomware)

That’s why creating secure, unique passwords is essential.

How to Create a Strong Password

A secure password should be:

• At least 12 characters long

• A mix of upper- and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols

• Not based on personal information like names, birthdays, or pet names

• Unique for each account — never reuse the same password across multiple systems

Example of a strong password:
F9t&bZ!4sQv3Lp@x

Avoid These Common Mistakes

• Using simple passwords like Password123 or qwerty

• Reusing the same password for multiple accounts

• Writing passwords on sticky notes or saving them in unsecured files

• Sharing passwords by email or chat

Use a Password Manager

It’s difficult to remember lots of complex passwords — and you shouldn’t have to.

A password manager securely stores all your passwords and can generate new, strong ones when needed. We recommend:

• 1Password

• Dashlane

• LastPass (Business versions only)

• Keeper Security

If you're unsure which one to use, speak to us and we’ll recommend the right fit for your organisation.

Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Always enable MFA on your Microsoft 365 account and any other service that supports it. This adds a second layer of protection in case your password is ever compromised.

You can learn more in our Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) guide.

Need Help?
If you have questions about password security or want help choosing a password manager, get in touch with us:

Ticket Portal: https://support.fusionit.uk
Email: support@fusionit.uk
Phone: 01244 835080

We’ll help keep your business accounts safe and secure.

Disclaimer:
This article is intended as a general guide. While we aim to ensure accuracy, Fusion IT cannot be held responsible for any issues, data loss, or damage resulting from the use or misapplication of these instructions. If in doubt, please contact our support team before making changes.