Rumor Has It: Passwords Are Planning a Strike

Campus-wide chaos? Not quite — but your passwords might feel like they’re on strike this week. Letters, numbers, and symbols have reportedly banded together to demand better working conditions, including:

• Stronger combinations: No more “Rocky123.”

• No repeats: Each account deserves its own unique password.

• Privacy protection: No sharing with roommates, coworkers, or classmates.

• Safe storage: Avoid sticky notes, public forms, or shared spreadsheets.

The National Keys Union (N.K.U.) claims: “We’ve been overworked and underappreciated for years. Until users give us proper respect, we’re refusing to log anyone in!”

While this strike is purely fictional, it’s a great reminder that strong, private passwords are essential for everyone on campus — students, faculty, and staff alike. Weak, shared, or poorly stored passwords can put your email, classwork, research, or sensitive campus data at risk.

Educational Takeaways:

1. Use strong, unique passwords: Combine letters, numbers, and symbols.

2. Try using a passcode instead:  RockyistheCoolest77!

3. Never share your passwords: Even with friends or colleagues.

4. Avoid unsafe storage: Never post passwords in public documents or forms.

5. Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) everywhere: It adds an extra layer of protection.

6. Update passwords regularly: Especially for sensitive personal accounts.

7. Use a password manager: To keep all your credentials secure and easy to manage.

Don’t worry, the strike is over… for now. But your passwords are still watching, and they appreciate a little respect.

Want to Learn More

Montclair State University | Secure Password Worksheet (For Personal Use)

Security.org | How Secure Is My Password?

CISA | Use Strong Passwords

CISA (Video) | How to Make Strong Passwords! (We Can Secure Our World)

Apple | Find saved passwords and passkeys on your iPhone

Google Android | Get started with Google Password Manager