This very simple tip will prevent you from being exposed to hacking. Here is the ideal password to be truly protected.
At a time when the majority of our activities are carried out online, the use of a secure password is more than crucial. However, even today, many users neglect this aspect. A specific type of password could give access to your personal information in just a few seconds.
Indeed, hackers have powerful tools to test billions of password combinations in record time. This is why it is essential to understand what makes a password vulnerable and, above all, how to strengthen it. Most Internet users still use passwords that are too simple, which exposes them to increased risks of hacking. The first rule to follow is to create long and complex passwords. A strong password ideally contains at least 12 characters, mixing uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers and symbols. The longer and more varied a password is, the harder it will be to guess or crack. Additionally, it is recommended not to use obvious personal information like a name or date of birth.
Next, it is important to never reuse the same passwords for different accounts. If a hacker gains access to one of your accounts using a weak or stolen password, they could then try the same password on other services. Imagine the damage if your email address, bank account and social networks are all protected by the same password!
For even greater security, it is advisable to use a password manager. These tools create and store complex passwords for each account, saving you the hassle of having to remember them. You then only have to remember one master password, the one that unlocks your manager. This solution has a double advantage: it strengthens the security of your accounts and saves you the hassle of constantly searching for which password you used for which service.
In addition to a good password, there are other measures you can take to protect your data. For example, avoid saving your passwords in your browser. This option, although convenient, can become an entry point for hackers if your computer or smartphone is infected with malware. It is better to use a password manager or, if you prefer a simpler system, write down your identifiers on a secure physical medium.
When it comes to the most vulnerable types of passwords, the shortest ones take the lead. Jérôme Carrillon, director of CGE packing, revealed on his LinkedIn account that a 6-character password, composed only of numbers, could be hacked in just three seconds. Same thing for a 4-character password made up of numbers and lowercase letters. You will have understood, opt for long, unique and varied combinations, and do not hesitate to use tools like a password manager to make your life easier.