Here's How:
Use Separate Sweepstakes Passwords
Chances are that you already have a few passwords neatly memorized. Is it OK to use them to enter sweepstakes as well? No!
Most sweepstakes passwords don't protect any truly sensitive information. Sweepstakes sites generally store your name and address, which you don't want to just hand to a hacker, but which are still public information.
What you really don't want, however, is your password for your bank, your credit card, or other important institutions to fall into the wrong hands. Use a separate set of passwords for sweepstakes entry.
Use a System for Your Sweepstakes Passwords
You'd be surprised at how many people use predictable passwords like "password." You might as well not use any at all. PC World has an excellent article about creating strong passwords that you can remember.
By the way, I really love this advice on using affirmations for passwords. What a great way to boost your positive thinking while entering sweepstakes!
Don't Make Your Sweepstakes Passwords Too Short
If you use a system to create sweepstakes passwords, as described above, then it makes sense to come up with a system that works for most sites. Otherwise, you might be confused when you return and your normal password won't work.
Many sweepstakes sites have a minimum character requirement for their passwords. Make sure your sweepstakes passwords are at least 8 characters long, to fulfill most requirements.
Use Letters and Numbers in Sweepstakes Passwords
Including numbers in your sweepstakes passwords not only makes them more secure, but are also sometimes required.Don't Send Your Sweepstakes Password by Email
Email is insecure, meaning that it can be easily read by snoopers looking for passwords. No legitimate site will ever ask for your sweepstakes password by email.Change Your Sweepstakes Passwords Regularly
If you use the same sweepstakes passwords year in and year out, then you are much more vulnerable if they are ever stolen. Change the passwords you use every few months and you will limit your vulnerability, in case a password is ever breached.
Tips:
- Roboform can also generate and store sweepstakes passwords for you.
- Sweepstakes passwords are not as critical as those protecting financial information, but they are also more vulnerable to being stolen. Make sure that you use separate sweepstakes passwords.
