Your password is one-way hash encrypted which means it can never be read or retrieved in a human readable format. Instead, each time you sign in, what you type gets encrypted with the same one-way algorithm and has to match the stored value. Any service that can resend you your password is inherently unsecure and we recommend you do not use such a service.

Choose passwords carefully – don't use obvious things like your account name, date of birth (or, indeed, the word ‘password’). Also try to use different passwords for different accounts; otherwise, if a thief manages to get access to one account, they’ll access them all.

• Passwords should be over 6 characters in length and contain numeric and special characters. Pass phrases over 15 characters in length are also allowed.
• Try to ensure your passwords and other log–in details are unique and could not easily be guessed by other people.
• Try to memorise your passwords and other security information – don't write them down for someone to find and use.
• Never store your passwords on your computer. It's much safer to type in your password each time you access the service.
• If you suspect your password has been comprised, change it immediately.
• Remember to log out at the end of a session.