Yes, today is “World Password Day 2015″ (#PasswordDay).  While it may not have the same panache as Cinco de Mayo, a day devoted to passwords still can be useful, especially for those who use terms like “bieber”, “123456”, “password” or “hackme!” to safeguard your many accounts.

Some say that passwords should be treated like underwear:  secret, hidden and changed (relatively) often.  So in that spirit, today is a good day to change and upgrade your passwords.

The Federal Trade Commission gives these handy tips for password security:

• The longer the password, the tougher it is to crack.  Use at least 10 characters; 12 is ideal for most home users.
• Mix letters, numbers, and special characters.  Try to be unpredictable – don’t use your name, birthdate, or common words. 
• Don’t use the same password for many accounts.  If it’s stolen from you – or from one of the companies with which you do business – it can be used to take over all your accounts.
• Don’t share passwords on the phone, in texts or by email.  Legitimate companies will not send you messages asking for your password.  If you get such a message, it’s probably a scam.
• Keep your passwords in a secure place, out of plain sight.

Microsoft provides tips for creating stronger passwords and passphrases here, and Google’s advice for passwords can be found here.

To be clear:  there is no such thing as a “perfect” password. But there are certainly ways to make your passwords harder to crack.  So, give it a try, and get ready for World Turtle Day on May 23!