Since the dawn of encryption and user accounts, password security has been of the utmost importance. However, It’s an often-neglected measure for keeping things secure, with users still using default passwords, easily guessable personal details, or otherwise insecure passwords. Here are a few quick tips to help new and old users alike keep their secrets safe.
- Do not use whole words
- Use a good mix of letters, numbers, and special characters as allowed (Like “$”, “&”, “%”, “!” and so on). A great mix is 40% letters, 40% numbers, and 20% special characters (may not be applicable in some circumstances)
- Don’t use family names, pet names, birthdays, or any other easily-guessed items as these can generally be cracked using only a little observation and investigative skills.
- Using characters to replace letters in words may seem like a clever idea, but in reality, password crackers have adapted to that technique long-ago. If you insist on using a word, consider using one that’s made-up, so it’s less vulnerable to being guessed.
- The more characters, the better. Always use as many letters as allowed, as each digit or character makes it that much harder for a hacker.
- If you find you can’t remember passwords very well, use a text file on a USB card, or write the passwords on a piece of paper. Make sure to guard either. On USB or SmartCards, you can encrypt the text file (At least 256-bit encryption is recommended)
EXAMPLES
Bad Examples: MomsName194, MYPetsName, Password, Guest, Default, Admin, 1234, ASDFGHJKL,
Good Examples : u!0Y9z!Lt$93E83P!4V, L05!a91MRnv8F2$3, jLAz091Rr$RM19cn2!RA
