Password Protection: The First Step to Data Security
Passwords are the protectors of your information – personal details, client information, business data and much more. With the technology of today, cyber-criminals are able to use automated tools to crack passwords quickly. Passwords are used for most online accounts, including news, email, apps, software and social media, with all of these having the potential to be hacked. Keeping your passwords strong is the first step to avoiding a potential data breach.
3 Ways to Keep Your Password Secure
1. Length
A brute force attack is a trial-and-error method that hackers use to guess your password. The longer your password is, the harder it is to crack. Creating a passphrase, instead of a password, protects you against hackers. Even if your password is short but complex, it is still easier to guess than a longer and more simple password.
2. Complexity
Instead of having a simple word as your password, using a complex pattern of letters, numbers and special characters is a great way to protect against cyber-criminals. Steer clear of predictable number and letter patterns such as “1234” or “aaa” when adding characters to your password, as these are the easiest to guess. Adding special characters is also a good step to increase security, especially if they are utilized to break up a word or phrase.
3. Change it Often
Changing your password frequently is key to guarding yourself against a potential password hack. When you change your password, make sure to alter it so it is drastically different than the previous password. Typically, when people change their passwords, they change only a letter or a number. Slightly changing your password does little to protect you, but completely changing your password regularly is an important step to fighting brute force attacks.
Why Strong Passwords Matter
We are often prompted with specific password requirements and notifications that we need to change our passwords. Because of this, we are prone to not keeping passwords unique and complex, which leaves us vulnerable to potential attacks. Keeping your passwords long, complex and changing them often will help guard against hackers who want your information.
Ask us a question about Password Protection
If you want to learn more about how to keep your passwords secure, do not hesitate to contact the IT experts at Benton Tech today!