Q&A for How to Create a Secure Password Hint

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What is a password hint, and how is it used for a computer?

Community Answer

A password hint is a clue that helps you remember your password. For example, if your password is "scotch123" and it's based on your dog's name, a suitable hint might be "Dog's name." However, it is advisable to avoid using easily guessable passwords.

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Question

If I forget my password, should I make my password hint the same as my password?

Community Answer

No, it's a very bad idea. This will make it very easy for someone to hack into your computer.

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Question

Can you hack someone's password by knowing the hint?

Community Answer

Only if the hint is simple or easy to crack. This is why many password hints are obscure, weird, or otherwise hard to crack. Obvious hints that most people can guess are easy to figure out and should be avoided.

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Question

What are some good examples of easy password hints?

Community Answer

You should avoid using hints that are straightforward and easy to guess. For example, hints like "grey city bird" for the password "pigeon" or personal information like "Sister's name" and "My birthday" are too easy to figure out.

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Question

Do password hints cause security vulnerabilities?

Community Answer

Not on their own. If a password hint is secure enough, and really difficult to guess, you're not going to have any problems caused by the hint.

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Question

Is it acceptable to use a racial slur as a password?

Community Answer

Using a racial slur as a password is not advisable, as it can be offensive and lead to negative perceptions if discovered. It's best to choose a password that is both secure and inoffensive.

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Question

What should my password hint be if my password is my first name?

Community Answer

Avoid using your name alone as a password. Instead, include numbers and unrelated words or phrases. You could make it more secure by rearranging your name in a memorable way, but avoid spelling it backwards, as that's too easy to guess.

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Question

Is "5 letters" a good password hint?

Community Answer

Yes, if it indicates that the password contains exactly five letters. This hint is secure because it is vague and difficult for others to decipher.

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