Nowadays we have more and more accounts with passwords. As a result, we are at a higher risk of our accounts being breached. Creating strong passwords is essential for protecting your online accounts and personal information. There are a number of ways to keep your data and accounts safe and secure, which we will explore below.
What's the risk?
The risk of your accounts being breached is very real. Here are some of the risks that all users face everyday:
According to an article from Windows Report, ‘experts estimate that 100 passwords get stolen every 1 second, around 8 million per day’.
Here are some more statistics related to worldwide cyber attacks:
- By 2025, cybercrime will cost the world $10.5 trillion yearly.
- The entire cost of cyberattacks in 2022 was $6 trillion.
- 95% of data breaches are the result of human error.
- Globally, 30,000 websites are hacked daily.
- 64% of companies worldwide have experienced at least one form of cyber attack.
- There were 22 billion breached records in 2021.
- In 2021, ransomware cases grew by 92.7%.
- Email is responsible for around 94% of all malware.
- Every 39 seconds, there is a new attack somewhere on the web.
- An average of around 24,000 malicious mobile apps are blocked daily on the internet.
As we can see from these shocking statistics, the threat of cyber attacks is very real, and using strong passwords or a password manager is paramount in helping to protect your accounts. As a result, you will have a much lower chance of your data falling into the wrong hands.
We are experts in cybersecurity and can therefore provide a comprehensive review of your business’ security. Check out our services page for more details, or get in touch below.
Our tips for protecting your passwords:
1. Length: Use passwords that are at least 12 characters long. Because the longer it is, the harder for hackers to crack it.
2. Complexity: Include a combination of characters. Consequently, this will make your password more difficult to guess. For example, you could replace an ‘a’ in your password with an ‘@’ character.
3. Avoid common patterns: Avoid using common patterns like “123456” or “abcdef.” These are the first options that hackers try. Remember that often, things that you find memorable are likely to be memorable to others, making it a more common password.
4. Avoid personal information: Avoid using personal information like your name or birthdate in your passwords because hackers can easily find this information.
5. Use a passphrase: Consider using a passphrase instead. A passphrase is a series of words that are easy for you to remember but difficult for others to guess. For example, “CorrectHorseBatteryStaple” is a strong passphrase.
6. Avoid using common dictionary words: Hackers use tools that can quickly try thousands of common dictionary words. For instance, you could try some lesser-used words.
7. Unique passwords: Use a unique password for each account. Therefore, if one account was compromised, having a unique password for each account ensures that the damage is limited.
8. Password manager: Consider using a password manager that securely stores your passwords. As a result you can use long and complex passwords without needing to remember them all.
9. Regularly update passwords: Remember to change your passwords periodically, especially for critical accounts like email and banking. These types of accounts are more appealing for hackers to attempt access.
10. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): 2FA provides an additional layer of security by requiring a second form of verification, such as a text message or a fingerprint, along with your password.