ALBAWABA - Passwords serve as the first line of defense against online intruders, especially in the era of global digitization. Understanding how to create a strong and secure password can help protect personal and financial data online.
Many make the mistake of using easily memorable passwords, such as birthdays or pet names. However, these can be easily hacked by cybercriminals. The ideal password should be complex enough to be difficult to guess, yet easy for the user to remember.
Here are 5 tips for creating strong passwords:
Mix of Characters
The strength of a password greatly depends on the complexity of the characters used. Including a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, special characters, and numbers makes the password more secure. Many systems now require this mix as part of their password policy.
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Long Passwords
Long passwords can make it challenging for infiltrators. It is recommended to have passwords that are at least 12 characters long. However, adding numbers or special characters at the end of a simple password won't provide sufficient security. Instead, consider using a passphrase resembling a series of words or text, generally longer and more secure.
Avoid Personal Information
Avoid using easily identifiable personal information, such as names, pet names, or birthdays. This information can be easily guessed by hackers. Instead, use a historical event or something interesting to you.
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Do Not Reuse Passwords
Reusing the same password for multiple accounts is a common practice but risky. If one account gets compromised, all your accounts become vulnerable. Use a unique password for each account, and consider using a password manager to store them securely.
Regularly Update Passwords
Even the strongest password can become susceptible over time. Regularly updating passwords every three to six months helps maintain the security of your accounts. Additionally, enabling two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security by requiring two forms of identification.
