No, Barb and I didn't suffer simultaneous strokes that wiped our brains clean. Finally got around to changing nearly 200+ passwords into unique computer-generated gibberish.
I say "nearly" because Barb and I can recite from memory only three, fairly complex and unique passwords to access our computers, mobile devices, and a password manager.
The other 200+ passwords are a complete mystery, even to us. Why create so many passwords that can't possibly be remembered? When the next data leak occurs (we both know it will) we will have to change the password for only one account. That's it. Poof. Done.
Before the naysayers jump all over me, I realize a data breach can reveal much more than a single password. Other measures need be taken to protect ourselves, a subject worthy of a separate post. Ignoring for now the "But what about..." issues, by having unique passwords we won't need to do numerous resets of a password that is used with multiple accounts. On a barely related note, I also refuse to use my credentials with Facebook, Google, Twitter, LinkedIn (or others) to log into other sites when offered. Sure, using a Google, Twitter or Facebook username and password makes logging into other sites easy, but also creates a nightmare to untangle when a data breach occurs.
My next task is changing responses to security questions into random, non-sensical answers. Example: Favorite food? Granite Chemtrail. Because I won't reuse answers to a question across sites, and can't possibly remember all the screwed up answers my mind will create, I will need to store in my password manager the questions and answers for each login credential. For sure a tad inconvenient, but in my opinion will be worth the effort.
I've preached more than enough, so will close with one simple suggestion: Get and use a password manager that will generate secure passwords, which has an interface and workflow you will be willing to use.
