FBI in Chicago Warns Illinois to Never Use These 7 Passwords

The truth is we really all should be more careful. The FBI in Chicago has issued a new warning to everyone in Illinois about dangerous passwords they've seen compromised numerous times that could lead to identity theft or worse.

The FBI in Chicago knows a thing or two about villains ripping people off. The list of cases where Illinois residents have had bank accounts drained or even complete identities stolen is long. That's why on National Password Day on May 1, they shared the following warning.

Here are the types of passwords you should never use:

1. Your birthday
2. Your kid's names
3. The city or town you live in
4. Your favorite band or artist name
5. Any number associated with you in a public domain
6. Your pets names
7. Your school name and/or graduation year

The types of passwords that are dangerous have changed thanks to social media. If you have shared something from your favorite band, that is now connected to you. If your online profiles show your place of employment or graduation year and school name, that makes it easier for thieves to guess what you might be using for bank and other account passwords.

The FBI in Chicago and other security experts also advise against using one singular password across multiple sites. That means if your password is accessed, many online accounts are compromised. It's best to be extremely paranoid about your online behavior. Always assume someone is watching when you're logging into your bank account because that sadly often is the case. Better safe than sorry.