Have you ever wondered why some password advice never seems to change, while other aspects of password management are constantly evolving? It’s because passwords are one of the most important security tools we have, and they need to be treated with care.
That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best password advice for 2022. These tips come from information technology experts who have seen it all when it comes to password security – so you can be sure they’re worth following.
Use a password manager.
If you’re not using a password manager, now is the time to start. A password manager is a software tool that helps you create and store strong passwords for all your online accounts. Not only does a password manager make it easy to create strong passwords, but it also helps you keep track of them all in one place. That way, you don’t have to remember dozens of different passwords or write them down where they can be easily lost or stolen.
Use long passwords.
Gone are the days when eight-character passwords were considered secure. In today’s world, password cracking tools are so powerful that even short passwords can be at risk. That’s why it’s important to use long passwords whenever possible. Aim for a minimum of 12 characters, and try to use a mix of upper- and lower-case letters, numbers, and symbols.
Don’t use dictionary words.
One of the most common password cracking techniques is known as a dictionary attack. This involves using a program to try every word in the dictionary (or a large list of common passwords) as a password. That’s why it’s important to avoid using dictionary words in your passwords.
Avoid common substitutions.
Another common password cracking technique is called a substitution attack. This involves trying to replace letters with numbers or symbols that look similar. For example, an attacker might try replacing the letter “a” with the “@” symbol. To avoid this type of attack, use random strings of characters instead of substitutions.
Use different passwords for different accounts.
If an attacker manages to get their hands on one of your passwords, they could use it to access other accounts that you use. That’s why it’s important to use different passwords for different accounts. That way, even if one password is compromised, your other accounts will remain safe.
Don’t reuse old passwords.
Once an attacker has cracked one of your passwords, they’ll likely try using it to access other accounts that you’ve used in the past. That’s why it’s important to avoid recycling old passwords. If you’re not sure whether a password is too old to be reused, err on the side of caution and create a new one.
Use two-factor authentication.
Two-factor authentication (also known as 2FA) is an extra layer of security that requires you to enter both a password and a code that is sent to your phone or email address. This makes it much more difficult for an attacker to gain access to your accounts, even if they have your password.
By following the best password practices for 2022, you can be sure that your passwords are as strong as possible and that you’re doing everything you can to keep them safe.