In this digital age, passwords are just like valued currency and should be set with great care to prevent an unauthorized access to confidential data. This new world is digitally connected and allows an easy transfer of data from one network to another. Where this advancement has made our lives quicker and easier, it has also increased the risk of data leakage.
To protect the sensitive information contained by online accounts, passwords are set. But the problem is that hackers are efficient enough to crack the passwords and obtain desired information. To prevent this activity, the only solution is to strengthen the password security so nobody will be able to break the lock.
Here you can find a few very practical tips for better password security:
Think Of Complex Passwords
“When it comes to password security, think complex”, says Jocelyn Baird, associate editor for NextAdvisor. (Davis, 2017) Many people opt for easy passwords because they are easy to remember but the thing is that they are also easy for hackers to guess.
When it comes to securing sensitive data, always come up with something complex and indifferent. Never use official names, birthdays and address because they make an obvious password. Create sentences by incorporating special characters, numbers and figures. In simple words, being innovative is the key to complex and well-secured password.
Change The Passwords Every Now And Then
Another way to secure passwords is to change them every now and then. Even if you have set a complex password, it won’t last forever. You should change them at least once in a month to ensure that nobody gets an access to your confidential information. It’s possible for hackers to figure out passwords after a few attempts thereby changing them frequently will decrease the chances of account hacking.
Always Set Two-Step Verification
Two-step verification involves double log-in processing. First you are asked to enter the password and later a code is sent to your mobile number which is entered to proceed with log in process. (Khan, 2017) This two-step verification makes it impossible for hackers to enter your account even if they have figured out the password. For two-step verification, possession of the associated mobile number or an email address is required along with the password.
Try a Password Manager
Those who have got so much on their plate can always consider password manager software. (Staff, TeachThought, 2017) This option is great for the ones who don’t remember new passwords and always face a tough time when it comes to logging in. Make sure that the software is updated and has a strong bit encryption. The password keeper that you use via web browser is strictly forbidden to use for sensitive accounts like banking and social media because it can be hacked easily.
Set Longer Passwords
Longer passwords are always difficult for hackers to guess or break. You can incorporate multiple irrelevant things and create one password. Make sure it doesn’t contain any obvious information about you or your close family. (Staff, TeachThought, 2017)
Avoid Automatic Log In Feature
This new feature might seem great to many people especially the ones who find typing password every time they want to log in a tough task. This feature allows the webpage to save the password for the account, so whenever you come to log in, it gives a quick access to the account. The downside of this feature is that anybody having access to the device from which you log in automatically also has an access to the relative account. This is why you should avoid using automatically log in feature. “It might save you time and frustration, but automatic, saved login information, including passwords, may make it more likely that your company could be hacked”, says Michael Bruemmer, vice president of identity protection at Experian. (Davis, 2017)
Password security is crucial to everyone at personal and cooperate levels and with these 6 tips you can strengthen it effortlessly without any risks.
Bibliography
Davis, J. B. (2017, July 14). Password Security: 9 Tips for Safeguarding Your Company’s Sensitive Data. Retrieved May 16, 2018, from americanexpress: https://www.americanexpress.com/us/small-business/openforum/articles/password-security-9-tips-safeguarding-companys-sensitive-data/
Khan, M. (2017, June 7). Top 7 Tips to Secure Your Passwords. Retrieved May 16, 2018, from infosec institute: http://resources.infosecinstitute.com/top-7-tips-secure-passwords/#gref
Staff, TeachThought. (2017, June 29). 10 Tips For Better Password Security. Retrieved May 16, 2018, from teachthought: https://www.teachthought.com/technology/10-tips-for-better-password-security/
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