When was the last time you remembered your password correctly on the first try?
You probably can’t remember.
We all know that we’re supposed to have long, complicated and unique passwords for each account we own.
But, when the average user has around 23 online accounts that all require a password (and that number is only increasing), there becomes a point where we must accept that we’re only human and simply not able to master that many quirky combinations.
Especially alongside remembering to floss daily and take the bins out on time…
What if we told you that you can create a unique, secure password without needing a photographic memory?
Introducing the concept of passphrases…
This sketch has been circling the internet for some time.
It shows you that choosing found random, common words for your password is a highly efficient way of protecting yourself from brute-force attacks.
This is because four, random words are just as hard for supercomputers to crack than a series of obscure letters, punctuation marks and numbers.
Also, because they are easier for humans to remember, we’re not tempted to change our passwords to something like ‘JustGilbey19’ – which could be cracked by a computer in seconds and a hacker in minutes.
We’d also recommend adding a few letters and symbols in there for good measure. For example, “PineappleTeaCrunch78!”.
With this being said, you can never sit too comfortably when it comes to your business’ cybersecurity.
Technology will rapidly advance, supercomputers will get smarter and hackers will become wise to our tricks.
So, it’s important to combine your powerful passphrase with at least one of the following:
Two-Factor or Multi-Factor Authentication.
Nowadays, most online services and platforms boast this security feature. All you need to do is spend a couple of moments switching it on and setting it up.
When 2-factor is activated, you’ll be sent a unique code via text message or email each time you log in. Simply enter that code to access the application or service.
We understand these extra few seconds could slow productivity, but we’d definitely encourage you to take advantage of this security feature – if only for your more sensitive accounts, such as online banking.
Authenticator applications.
An easier way to manage 2-step authentication is using a special app, such as Google Authenticator or Authy.
New codes are generated on your phone or tablet every few minutes and it means that even if someone does crack your password, they’ll have to access to your authentication app in order for them to successfully get into your account.
Touch ID.
More and more laptops, phones, tablets, and apps are supporting biometric security tools – we’re talking thumbprint, face and eye recognition.
This is possibly the quickest way to stay secure – it’s faster than entering a passcode, so you have no excuses!
And, finally, brush up on your password habits.
Unfortunately, the weakest link in the security chain is often human behaviour and silly slip-ups.
Please be wary of the dangers of password sharing and not storing your passwords securely.
If you do need to write your details down, avoid using notebooks and stick notes. Instead, opt for a password manager, such as LastPass.
This affordable tool enables you to securely store your login credentials. Additionally, it tells you if your password is weak and can generate new unique combinations.