What are the features of a secure password?

The first step often involves creating a strong password. We all have far more passwords than we need. Strong passwords, despite their simplicity, are a prerequisite for effective security. The simplest first step to a secure web presence is to use strong passwords for your web, FTP, and data servers.

What are the features of a secure password?

– A three-digit password is far less secure than a six- or eight-digit one. As a rule of thumb: never use a password that is less than eight characters long.

– Do not use the default password.

– Never use a password that is a dictionary word. One of the most common methods of breaking into a system is to run scripts that try to guess your password from dictionary phrases. The less your password resembles a dictionary word, the less likely it is that someone will guess it.

– Include numbers and special characters in your message.

Avoid repeating numbers, characters or sequences such as 12345678, bbbbbbb or 7777777

Never use your username as a password or a combination of it. Also do not use your domain name as a password.

– Do not use „4ufromme“ or „n0t@home“ as visually similar alternatives.

– Use the entire keyboard, concentrating on the less frequently used keys.

Create unique passwords for each account. If you use the same password for all your accounts, multiple accounts could be compromised at once.

– Never use an empty password.

Here are some examples of secure passwords:

!4scOrE&sDayNYeaRs ag0 is a blend of several words that are not words themselves, interspersed with special characters. A word containing the numbers of a memorable date (e.g. holiday -> 0vac2a0t9io19ln99).

Protect your passwords

In an ideal world, you’d never write down your passwords, but with so many accounts, this is becoming increasingly difficult. If you do need to write them down, keep them in a safe or another secure location. Passwords on post-it notes are not a good idea! Never share your passwords with anyone, not even friends and relatives. Instead of giving your password to someone who needs to use one of your accounts, log them in.

If you did not initiate the call yourself, do not give your password over the phone. For example, you might receive a call from your internet provider asking for your password. Ask for the phone number, then call them back and reveal your password. Phone calls are not considered secure. Online chats, emails, and instant messaging are no better.

Passwords should be changed regularly. It is advisable to change your password every 45 days. It is bad security practice to use the same passwords for years. Make a note in your calendar to remind yourself. Make it a regular thing. After a few months, you will notice that it has become a habit.

When using a public computer, do not enter your password. Unfortunately, a large number of public computers have been hacked, meaning users are exposed to malicious software for detecting keystrokes.