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Importance of create a strong password (explained) 2024

Here are five useful tips for creating a strong password that minimizes the risk of falling victim to cybercriminals.

A password or Strong password provides the first line of defense against unauthorized access to your computer or personal information. Most of our online accounts are protected by a username and password combination. Passwords protect us from hackers, identity thieves, and cybercriminals who want to access our data and use it for malicious purposes. That’s why Creating a strong password is important to prevent unauthorized access to your online accounts and devices and help protect you from hackers and malicious software. However, many people still use weak or common passwords that are easy to guess or crack (123456 is still the most popular). This not only puts their online security and privacy at risk but also increases vulnerability to unauthorized access, identity theft, and potential exploitation.

Using strong, unique passwords is crucial for robust defense against prevalent cyber risks.

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Why a strong Password is Important?

Using a common password 123456, weak passwords, or the same passwords for different accounts can leave you, vulnerable to hackers. If a hacker cracks your password then can gain access to your personal information such as social media accounts, bank accounts gain access to mail accounts or other sensitive information that hold your confidential personal data. That’s why creating a strong password is vital.

A strong password is one that is hard to guess or crack by anyone who does not know it. It is usually long, complex, and unique.

  • Prevent unauthorized access to your online accounts and personal information
  • Protect your identity and reputation from identity theft and fraud
  • Avoid losing money or valuable data due to cyberattacks
  • Enhance your online privacy and security

How to create a strong password

You know the importance of passwords, now let’s check how to create a strong password.

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While creating a password, Never use sequential numbers or letters For example, do not use 1234, qwerty, jklm, 6789, etc. Ensure it’s not less than 6 characters, and Mix of a unique combination of upper- and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols for example, M0l#eb9Qv. Again Do not use names or words found in the dictionary most importantly not set your birth year or birth month/day in your password

Also, you can use a password generator tool to create a strong password.

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Five rules for a secure password

Several companies, including Microsoft and Google, envision a digital world without passwords, replaced by biometric authentication. But passwords are still widely used today for many services, including those offered by banks (coupled with other authentication factors). Marco Fanuli, Check Point Software Security Engineer Team Leader, said:

It is now known that cybercriminals try to steal the passwords of hundreds of users, using techniques such as phishing to be able to hack thousands of services and steal usernames and access data. As these techniques continue to evolve and threats become more sophisticated, there are still valid ways to secure your data. You need to regularly monitor and verify the validity of passwords, strengthen the security level of your accounts and enhance prevention strategies to prevent cybercriminals from accessing personal information and devices.

These are the five rules Check Point recommends following for creating secure passwords:

  • Use a combination of numbers, letters and symbols, avoiding names, dates of birth and other information that can be easily discovered by cybercriminals
  • Use a different password for each app and service to prevent an attacker from gaining access to your entire digital life
  • Choose a combination as long as possible (at least 8 characters) for added security
  • Change passwords regularly, avoid choosing old combinations
  • Enable two-factor authentication for an additional layer of security

In addition:

Change automatically generated passwords and Use a password manager to store your passwords. Do not log in to accounts or websites with your Facebook or social network credentials.

Of course, passwords don’t have to be written on a post-it note or in a text file. The generation of a strong password and its secure storage (often in encrypted form) is possible with one of the numerous password managers on the market ( free and not). Among the best known are LastPass, 1Password and NordPass.

How to secure your password?

Creating a strong password is not enough. You also need to keep it safe and secure. Here are some best practices:

  • Do not share your password with anyone, even if they claim to be from a trusted source
  • Do not write down your password or store it in an unsecured place
  • Do not enter your password on public or untrusted devices or networks
  • Do not use the same password for different accounts or websites
  • Do not reuse old passwords or recycle them
  • Do not click on links or open attachments from suspicious emails or messages that ask for your password

Use two-factor authentication (2FA) or multi-factor authentication (MFA) whenever possible. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second factor, such as a code sent to your phone or email, to verify your identity before logging in.

Creating and securing a strong password is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your online security and privacy. A strong password can prevent hackers from accessing your online accounts and personal information, and save you from potential losses and damages. Follow the tips above to create and secure a strong password for each of your online accounts and websites.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is creating a strong password important?

  • Creating a strong password is crucial for protecting personal information and accounts from unauthorized access and potential security threats.

What are the characteristics of a strong password?

  • A strong password includes a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. It should be unique, avoiding easily guessable information, and longer for added security.

How often should I change my passwords?

  • Change passwords regularly, typically every 3 to 6 months, and immediately if you suspect a compromise or security breach.

Can I use the same password for multiple accounts?

  • No, using unique passwords for each account is safer, as it minimizes the risk of a security breach affecting multiple accounts.

Should I use password managers?

  • Yes, password managers are recommended for generating and storing complex passwords, reducing the need to remember multiple passwords.

How do I create a memorable yet strong password?

  • Create a passphrase with a combination of unrelated words, numbers, and special characters, avoiding easily guessable information.

How can two-factor authentication (2FA) enhance password security?

  • 2FA adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification, enhancing overall account security.

What should I do if I forget my password?

  • Use the “Forgot Password” or “Reset Password” option provided by most services, typically involving identity verification through email, phone, or another method.

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