We have been using passwords since the 1960’s, where the origins of the internet date back to. Yet with the passing years our passwords have become weaker, and easier for cyber criminals to hack. Don’t think so? Does your password have a vowel? Does it contain the numbers 1 or 2 that are placed at the end? How about a capital letter at the beginning followed by a vowel? If your password falls into these categories than unfortunately you have a weak password according to Rogers A. Grimes, security advisor and columnist at InfoWorld Security.
So what can you do to strengthen your password?
Although not foolproof, the following steps will definitely make it harder for the hacker:
- At least 9-15 character passwords that include a variety of letters, numbers, and symbols in random order
- Do not use one password for every one of your account, each account should have its own password
- Change your passwords at least every 3 months
- Do not fall for phishing scams
- And the most obvious, never share your passwords
Following these steps can help strengthen your defense against hackers which pose a threat to your and your organization’s sensitive data.
