Weak Passwords: A Cybersecurity Time Bomb Waiting to Happen

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  • Source: Wayne Dupree
  • 06/21/2024
Passwords used by millions of people are allegedly too weak to protect them from cybercriminals. Many people use the same password for all their online accounts, such as Facebook and X. However, calamity can arise when using the same password across all accounts or using a code that is too simple to guess. Kaspersky's cyber security team released alarming data that the number of attempts by hackers to crack personal passwords in 2023 has surpassed 32 million, and it is only going up. New studies reveal that in less than 60 seconds, hackers can crack almost half of all passwords.

Users should avoid using their name in a password, as it is unconsciously created 'human' passwords, containing words from dictionary in their native languages, featuring names, numbers, etc., that are easy for our busy brains to recall easily. Algorithms can predict even seemingly powerful combinations, so using up-to-date, trustworthy password managers is the safest bet.

To make passwords more difficult to guess, try adding digits, capital letters, and symbols. Avoid using obvious pieces of information like birthdays, family members' names, pets' names, or even one's own name. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) to increase security, as someone who guessed your password still cannot access your account. Use a password manager to commit a single master password to memory.



 

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