Something that people don't realize is that "simple" passwords can easily be broken or guessed using sophisticated software. Simple passwords can be passwords with only letters or numbers, with real words in them, patterns, or personal info within them (name, address, etc.). For the longest time, I personally used a ridiculously simple password, but when I look back and see how easily it could be obtained or cracked, I realize that was a big mistake. Thankfully, that was only for free web mail and other fairly low-key sites. If I were to have used that on a banking or a site with more critical personal information, then I could have landed myself into lots of financial trouble. Identity theft is still one of the most prevalent crimes on the internet, and with many people using insecure passwords, it's no surprise.

So what's in a secure password? Well, it's actually quite basic:

- Use at least 3 of the following in your password: Small letters, Capital letters, Numbers, and Symbols.
- Make sure your password is longer than 8 characters.

And that's about it! Yep, simply secure. Try NOT to do the following:

- Do not use real words
- Do not use personal info
- Do not use keyboard patterns (ex. qwerty, asdf)

Make sure to change your password regularly if you are managing more critical information.

More information, and a very cool password strength checker, can be found here at SecurityStats.com. They also have a few tips to create very secure passwords that you can remember easily.

And by the way, remember that the best way to keep your password secure... don't tell it to anyone!