Password security has become very important, especially in this modern era, when cyber threats have become more sophisticated than ever. Now, businesses have become increasingly aware of the need to protect their sensitive information – or any form of data.
Passwords – strong ones – are the first line of defence against malicious or unauthorized characters. This made them the first port of call for brands and businesses in the aspect of cybersecurity.
This article is aimed at shedding light on the major facts about password security, the best practices to observe while choosing passwords as well as common weaknesses of passwords.
Key Password Breach Statistics
Some important details to know and learn from about passwords include the following:
- 85% of individuals around the world reuse the same password on different devices;
- 75% of people don’t follow advice on passwords;
- The most common password in the last few years is “123456”.
- Hackers can break through 17 of the 20 most common passwords in the world under 20 seconds;
- 60% of internet users have changed their passwords to stronger ones after they get an “unauthorized user access” notification;
- Users take about fourteen seconds to type out a password.
Other facts to know include the following:
- How many passwords are hacked every day? Records reveal that about 8 million passwords are stolen daily. This translates to an average of 100 passwords every second.
- How many people reset passwords? About 34% of netizens need to change their password every month. They do that after forgetting it or due to security reasons.
- What year did World Password Day launch? World Password Day was launched in 2013 by Intel to create more awareness about online security and strong passwords.
- How many passwords does the average person have? Surveys reveal that an average human with an active digital life has about 100 passwords.
- How to make and remember a safe password? Making a strong password is typically for users to include numbers, letters, and symbols. You can manage them by using password managers to store and employ them for your different accounts.
These facts underline the fact that password strength and enlightenment are valid and regular occurrences in the current digital market.
Common Password Vulnerabilities
There are several weaknesses that compromise password security. Some of them include:
- Simple passwords: Using everyday passwords like “123456” is a big security risk that every digital user should avoid.
- Using the same password: It’s common knowledge that many users use the same password on different accounts.
- Lack of complex passwords: Passwords that are not complex are very easy for hackers to decipher and break.
- Not changing default passwords: Some users simply never change the password they are issued when joining a platform.
Having a good knowledge of these vulnerabilities is one of the most important steps you can take in managing them and getting out of the reach of password hackers.
Best Practices for Creating Strong Passwords
In this section, we are going to discuss some of the guidelines to take when creating a password for work or business.
Characteristics of A Strong Password
A strong password is expected to have the following qualities:
- Have a mix of alphabets, both lowercase and uppercase.
- Having an average of 8 characters
- Avoid using easily guessable information such as birthdays, common words, and regular patterns like using “123456”.
- Users should use different passwords across different accounts and devices.
Adhering to these requirements will help an internet user to sit above a huge percentage of the world’s internet traffic and their password habits that make them vulnerable to hackers.
Tools and Techniques For Generating Secure Passwords
Netizens can employ the use of some tools to manage their passwords. They can even generate one with them.
Some of these tools include the following:
- LastPass: This is one of the most popular password managers on the internet. It allows users to store, secure, and automatically deploy them when the need arises.
- DashLane: This application offers easy password management and file storage to its users and subscribers.
- 1Password: This is a password manager and a form filler for users of different devices.
Note that these tools also play the role of holding users’ data so that they can easily deploy them across multiple platforms with a click.
Advanced Password Security Techniques
Here, we will share some tips with you to help your brand or business stand two steps ahead of hackers.
Understanding Two-Factor Authentication and the Impact of Biometrics on Password Security
Two factor authentication (2FA) is one technique that a lot of private individuals and brands are using to secure their details, beyond the use of passwords.
The way it works is that you will be required to perform a task to be able to access your data, even if you have entered the correct password characters. You may be sent a code to enter or a long code.
In the same length, you can employ biometrics to add an extra layer of security for your details. You will be able to use your bodily features, such as fingerprints or face, to verify your identity and gain access to your accounts on different platforms.
Using Password Managers and Secure Password Generators
As an internet user, you have the option of using password managers to form passwords and also store them. Password managers help users avoid the regular habit of choosing weak or commonly used passwords —improving their overall account security.
What Must Be Done if Your Password Is Compromised?
If you find out that your password has been breached, below are a few steps you can take to remedy the situation:
- Change your existing password;
- Employ two factor authentication methods;
- Keep an eye on your accounts to ensure there are no further breaches;
- Use a password manager to form and manage your passwords.
With these steps, you can be sure of a premium password management experience and a break from hackers’ menace.
Brands need to understand the major weaknesses and vulnerabilities that underline password usage to be able to appreciate the best practices laid out for passwords.
Use techniques such as 2FA, biometrics, and password managers to protect your information against potential attacks in this digital age where every piece of information is vital.