Simple passwords like “123456” may be easy for us to use, but they are also easy for hackers to guess. In fact, according to CyberNews at cybernews.com/best-password-managers/most-common-passwords, “123456” is the most used password in 2024. Approximately 44 million accounts are vulnerable to account takeover because of compromised or stolen passwords (see impactmybiz.com/blog/cybersecurity-tips-passphrase-vs-password).
What can you do to make your passwords more secure? Replace these simple passwords with strong, creative passphrases. A passphrase is a unique set of words that serves as a password. A passphrase will make it easier for you to remember your account credentials and more difficult for cyber criminals to crack.
To create a secure, unique, and memorable passphrase:
n Step 1: Think of a phrase that you will remember (e.g., Be CyberSafe).
n Step 2: Change specific letters into special characters or numbers (e.g., “B3_Cyb3rS*f3”).
n Step 3: Add a unique identifier to differentiate passwords across accounts (e.g., “B3_Cyb3rS*f3_w0^k”).
Also, remember these helpful tips:
n Avoid using your personal information (e.g., family names, birthdays, etc.).
n Do not use repeated letters or characters, like “1111.”
n USPS® passwords must be 15 characters in length for all internal platforms, like Blue and LiteBlue, except mobile devices.
n Passwords must consist of a combination of characters, including at least three of the following:
n One uppercase letter (A-Z).
n One lowercase letter (a-z).
n One number (0-9).
For more information about creating secure passphrases, refer to Handbook AS-805, Information Security, or visit blue.usps.gov/cpim/ftp/manage/as8002210/as8002210_tech_005.htm.
To learn more about cybersecurity best practices, visit the CyberSafe at USPS® Blue (blue.usps.gov/cyber) and LiteBlue (liteblue.usps.gov/cyber) pages, as well as the Monthly Awareness Campaigns page at blue.usps.gov/cyber/communications.htm.
— Corporate Information Security Office,
Chief Information Security Officer, 3-7-24
