Constantly typing in passwords can get a little tiresome, but it’s a vital part of internet security that shouldn’t be overlooked. So, why are your login details so important, and what is the importance of strong passwords?
Why Are Passwords Important?
Passwords are a first line of defense against anyone who wants to access information that should be restricted. They help keep confidential information safe, and help protect against viruses and other threats.
This is important because our digital devices are central to business. They hold large quantities of critical data. The consequences of a breach can be severe.
It’s hard to underestimate how important following guidelines for setting your passwords is and the importance of strong passwords because without complying, you become an easy target. As you often see on the news, even the biggest companies in the world suffer from hacks and data breaches, which demonstrates that everyone is vulnerable.
Passwords are your first line of defense.
How to Choose a Good Strong Password
Choosing a good, strong password isn’t about thinking of something you can remember. Instead, it’s about making it difficult for others to try and break through your digital defenses.
1. Use Unique Passwords
Data leaks that include people’s usernames and passwords happen a lot. If someone gets hold of your password, and you use that password for every single login, they have gained access to everything. If you use unique passwords for each account, damage is contained. This helps to limit risk and keeps your information safe.
2. Make it 8 Characters or More
One of the ways hackers get into people’s accounts is through what’s known as a brute force attack. This uses software to quickly run through thousands of possible password combinations in the hope they guess your login details. If you’re using a four-character password this makes it much easier than if you’re using a longer combination of letters, numbers, and symbols.
3. Don’t Use Personal Information
Your date of birth, names of children, your place of birth - this is all information people can quickly find. All it takes is a quick look on Facebook or another social media platform and people who want to get into your accounts can get helpful clues as to what your password might be. The importance of strong passwords far exceeds memorability, so never use personal information.
4. Be Careful
Using Public Wifi
This one isn’t so much about the importance of strong passwords as the importance of good security practices. Public, unprotected wifi networks are a great place for malicious actors to hangout and steal your information. If you are using public wifi, always use a VPN to help keep your details safe.
5. Change
Your Passwords Regularly
It’s not always easy to know if you’re the only person with access to your account. That’s why changing your passwords regularly is so key to keeping your personal information private. Being vigilant limits the amount of time an unauthorized person might have access to your information.
Conclusion: The Importance of Strong Passwords
We’re so used to having passwords for everything that it’s easy to underestimate the role they play in keeping us safe. The importance of strong passwords and following good password practices can’t be underestimated, as they help to keep our personal information, businesses, and the institutions we rely on safe.
It might seem like a small thing, but setting
a good, strong password can make all the difference.