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I've started doing this and have ended up depending on my password manager to track which emails I need for logging in to a service, which is a bit of a hassle although I think it's still worth it for the reasons you outlined. For example, did I use [service]@___domain.com or [abbreviated-service]@___domain.com, or was it [service.com]@___domain.com...?



The only service I have that problem with is Microsoft since it's a merge of like three different accounts (MSN messenger, Skype, and Office365) so I can never remember which is the right one.

Otherwise my rule is to use the central part of the ___domain name (no www or TLD), or it's easy enough to just search my email archive for messages from whatever service.


I also find that some services don't let you use their name in your email address.

Samsung is one I remember which wouldn't let me use [email protected], I managed to get by with [email protected]. Definitely one for the password.

Then again, we should be using unique passwords for everything anyway, so a password manage is a must regardless of how you handle emails.


This also happens to some extent in real life. Often when I say that my email is "[email protected]" it's met with a "well, if you're just going to give me a fake address…". At which point I have to explain 1) catch-all email addresses, and 2) yes, you can own your own entire ___domain name.


Near enough everything is in my password manager. I use <service>.<month>.<year>.<nonce>@___domain so I have to so to speak.

Using keepassxc + its browser and mobile extensions make this easier than typing the address in myself. I was astounded at how bad the ux the paid pw mamagers I've used is




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