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The password must protect your data - but you also must protect your password.
(Symbolic image) © aoo3771/PantherMedia
In the digital age, password security is essential.
In this article you will learn the basic rules for dealing with passwords.
In principle, a password has only one simple purpose: it is intended to prevent anyone other than yourself from gaining access to your devices or files.
Only you should know the password and it should obviously not be easy to crack.
Combinations like “1234” or birthdays of friends and family are extremely unsuitable.
But that should be clear to everyone by now.
Nevertheless, many people are very careless with their passwords.
And at a time when our personal data is becoming increasingly digitally connected and the threats from cybercrime are increasing, the issue of data protection is of enormous importance.
But what makes a password really secure?
And what typical mistakes continue to be made?
The data protection experts at caralegal provide the answers.
What makes a strong password?
You would be amazed at how frequently simple password combinations are used.
© jamdesign/PantherMedia
A strong password is an important defense against unauthorized access to personal information and accounts.
It should be a combination of different elements to ensure safety.
According to the experts at caralegal, the following characteristics characterize a good password:
It's a unique item that you don't already use.
The longer the password, the better - the absolute minimum is eight characters.
It is a combination of upper and lower case letters, numbers and special characters.
You can replace letters with similar-looking special characters to further improve security - for example, a "$" instead of "S" or a "1" instead of an "i".
What should you avoid with passwords?
Don't use the same password for multiple accounts.
Avoid simple combinations like “123456” or “password” as they are easy to crack.
Avoid familiar patterns or sequences such as dates of birth, names of family members or pets, and commonly used phrases - for example: "abcdef".
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Passwords should be changed regularly
Even if you have a strong password, you should update it from time to time.
Especially when it comes to critical accounts such as email, banking or even social media.
This helps minimize risk.
Managing Director of caralegal Björn Möller.
© caralegal
How often should you change passwords?
caralegal recommends the following approach:
For sensitive accounts that contain personal or financial information, it is advisable to change passwords every three to six months.
For less critical accounts, password changes can occur less frequently as long as the password is strong and secure.
Regardless of the frequency of planned password changes, it is important to act immediately if there are signs of compromise.
In this case, change the password immediately to prevent further damage.
How can I protect my passwords?
Password security – please don’t do that.
(Symbolic image) © fermate/PantherMedia
However, no matter how good a password is, it is no guarantee that it will not be cracked.
To further secure this, you can take a few measures:
Use two-factor authentication (2FA).
This adds an additional layer of security by requiring additional confirmation such as a one-time password via SMS or email in addition to the password.
Use a trusted password manager or antivirus programs to generate and store strong and unique passwords for each of your accounts.
Password managers also offer features such as autofilling credentials and securely storing your passwords.
Be careful with phishing.
Through fake websites or emails, all it takes is one click on a phishing link for your data to fall into the hands of fraudsters.
In general, be suspicious of unexpected emails asking for your login information.
These are all just the basic tips on the subject of passwords.
Data protection and password security will continue to be important in the future.
Unfortunately, you usually only recognize your own security gaps when it is too late.
Repairing the damage afterwards is extremely difficult.
If you consider the things listed above, it's a good start.