10 Tips to Create a Strong Password
Few days back, in what is touted as the largest-ever password breach, researchers at Cybernews have uncovered a massive trove of nearly 10 billion passwords on a popular hacking forum. They are calling it the “largest password compilation” ever. The file, titled rockyou2024.txt, was posted on July 4 by a user going by the name ObamaCare and contains a mind-boggling 9,948,575,739 unique plaintext passwords.
The file, titled rockyou2024.txt, was posted on July 4 by a user going by the name ObamaCare and contains a mind-boggling 9,948,575,739 unique plaintext passwords. This alarming revelation serves as a stark reminder of why implementing effective tips to create a strong password is crucial for online security.
This week’s #KnowITAll hence brings to you 10 tips to create a strong password and block hackers.
1. Use a Long Password
Aim for at least 12-16 characters. The longer the password, the harder it is to crack. For example, a 7-character password can be cracked almost instantly. A 12-character password, however, can take centuries to crack using current technology. This is one of the most essential tips to create a strong password.
2. Include a Mix of Characters
Use a combination of uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters (like !, @, #, $). This complexity adds layers of difficulty for attackers. For example, use “P@ssw0rd!” instead of “Password!” to make it more complex.
3. Avoid Common Words and Phrases
Do not use easily guessable words or phrases like “password,” “123456,” or “qwerty.” These are the first attempts by hackers. Additionally, avoid using dictionary words, as hackers employ dictionary attacks to guess passwords. This is a crucial step in the tips to create a strong password.
4. Use Passphrases
Combine unrelated words to create a passphrase, such as “BlueElephant!Running7.” It’s easier to remember and harder to guess. However, patterns like “qwerty” or “asdfg” are common and easily guessable, so stay away from them.
5. Avoid Personal Information
Do not use easily accessible personal information like your name, birthdate, or phone number. Attackers can easily find this information online. This is a key component of effective password security best practices.
6. Use Unique Passwords for Different Accounts
Like they say, don’t put all your eggs into one basket. Do not reuse passwords across multiple sites. If one account is compromised, others will be too. This is one of the best tips to create a strong password to enhance your overall password management.
7. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of identification. Implementing 2FA is a strong recommendation in the tips for secure passwords.
8. Use a Password Manager
A password manager can generate and store complex passwords for you, reducing the need to remember them. Tools like LastPass, 1Password, and even Google Chrome’s built-in password manager are excellent options.
9. Use Randomly Generated Passwords
These password managers also offer to create new randomly generated passwords, which are usually complex and very difficult to crack. This is a key strategy in creating a strong password.
10. Avoid Using the Same Root Password
We’re all mostly guilty of this, but don’t use a base password with minor modifications for different accounts. For example, avoid using passwords like “Password1,” “Password2,” etc.
Conclusion
Creating a strong password is not just a good practice; it’s essential in today’s digital landscape. By following these 10 tips to create a strong password, you can significantly enhance your online security and protect your personal information from potential threats. Always remember that your password is your first line of defense against hackers, so make it count!
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