How to use the password generator
- Choose the length with the slider. 16 characters is a good default.
- Choose which characters to include: uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers and symbols.
- Tap Copy, or New password for a different one.
Every password includes at least one character of each type you choose, and the order is fully random.
What makes a password strong
- Length. Each extra character multiplies the number of possible passwords.
- Randomness. Names, dates and words are the first things attackers try.
- One password per account. If one site is hacked, reused passwords put your other accounts at risk.
The strength meter shows bits of randomness. Each extra bit doubles the number of guesses an attacker would need. 60 bits is strong for most accounts, and 80 or more is very strong.
Keeping your accounts safe
- Save your passwords in a password manager, so every account can have its own long password.
- Turn on two-step verification for your email, bank and social media accounts.
- Change a password straight away if a site tells you it has been hacked.