In the past few years, we’ve seen some of the biggest computer attacks in history. Yahoo had half a million passwords stolen. LinkedIn: 6.5 million passwords. Sony PlayStation Network: 77 million passwords, full names, email addresses, mailing addresses, birth dates  purchase history, and credit card numbers. When big name companies fail to adhere to basic security principles, it’s up to individuals to protect themselves. Only those with Zen-like password management can truly keep their online accounts safe. Make a resolution to master your passwords in 2013:

• Don’t write down passwords.
• Use different passwords for each account.
• Use strong passwords.
• Read network security news.
• Use a password manager.

Good password disciple will transform you into a security ninja, quick to respond in a crisis. Follow these precepts into the New Year and enjoy online tranquility.

The Tao cannot be written.

Stop with the Post-It notes. These handy colorful slips are the downfall of many an otherwise secure system. Written notes are bad security because it’s easy for someone to walk by, glance at the note, and copy your passwords. Even in a world without malice, the notes wouldn’t be safe: It’s too easy for paper notes to blow away and get lost, locking you out of your accounts. When it comes to password security, it’s best to take a vow of silence.

The Tao is like a snowflake: countless, unique.

When a website gets hacked, the consequences spill onto other websites. A leak on Netflix is a leak on Wells Fargo, for every member who uses the same password. Don’t make it easy for hackers. Use a different password for every account. If you think keeping track of multiple passwords is inconvenient, compare that with the inconvenience of identity theft.

The Tao is formless.

Use strong passwords, meaning passwords with uppercase and lowercase characters, numbers, and punctuation. Use at least 8 characters or more, and don’t use passwords that have personal meaning. If your password is something guessable, like your child’s birthday, then your accounts are easy to hack.

The Tao is ever-changing.

Keep up to date on the latest network security news. Subscribe to news sources such as Ars Technica. When a website that holds your personal data gets hacked, you’ll be ready to respond.

Master the Tao, or it will master you.

When you can’t remember an important password, your electronic workflow comes to a halt. What good are hundreds of ultra-secure passwords when you can’t remember them? Fortunately, password managers like RoboForm are a good compromise, encouraging strong passwords and relieving you of the burden of remembering them. Now you only have to remember one master password, and you’ll never lose the rest. Find the security balance that’s right for you, with RoboForm.