Today, we will show you some hackproof tips to create a strong password.
Passwords are needed to create accounts to access various online services such as email, communication, e-commerce, e-markets, academic content, online banking, etc.
In this digital age, passwords are needed to protect our accounts from unauthorized access, data theft, and other internet fraud.
Besides, several internet users have fallen victim to password hacking, which has caused them to lose significant amounts of money and other online valuables.
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Tips To Create Strong Hackproof Password
To protect yourself from falling victim to password attack, here are some simple tips and tricks to keep your account safe from password theft or hacking.
1. Don't use personal information for password
Private information like birthdays, pets, and family members' names, addresses, workplace names, etc., should not be used as passwords or included in your password. This is because Hackers can ascertain this information efficiently from your social media information.
Also, if you have to fill in a security question and answer when creating an account, use security questions and answers that are not obvious to people.
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2. Your password should contain uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters or symbols
Passwords with mixed cases, numbers, and special characters are hard to guess. When creating passwords, you can substitute the alphabet ‘S' for five and toggle the last alphabet to upper case if your password is lower case.
Add other special symbols in the middle and end of your password to make it secure and easy to remember. Make your passwords at least eight characters long, and do not use passwords or phrases from favourite movies or videos.
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3. Use non-sense phrases for passwords
Non-sense phrases containing special characters as passwords are hard for password hackers to crack. You can code a statement or phrase into a passphrase. For, John walks to school every day for thirty minutes, can code for Jw2sef=30. This makes it easy to remember.
Do not use the first, middle, or last row of letters on your keyboard as password. Also, avoid using slang, dictionary words, and names for passwords.
4. Keep your password a secret
Your password should be known only to yourself. Do not reveal your password to friends, colleagues at school or work, family members, technicians, etc.
Protect your password from prying eyes if you must log in to an account in public places. Also, do not tape your password to your computer or desk in your office.
Files containing password lists or hints should be given random unsuspecting names and hidden deep within sub-folders in other locations, not necessarily in documents or desktops.
5. Change passwords regularly
Changing passwords regularly is good for protecting sensitive accounts related to money or financial services online.
Changing passwords at least once every two months is recommended.
A note of warning: do not re-use changed passwords.
6. Do not use one password for several accounts
If you have several accounts online, remembering the correct password for each account can be pretty challenging. To solve this problem, you can use one password but with variations for each account. For example, some can have a number or symbol in the middle, or 0 can replace the letter ‘o” in some.
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7. Use a Password manager
Password managers automatically generate and store passwords in an encrypted location that can be accessed only with a master password.
Suggested password manager include 1password, LastPass, and KeePass.
8. Two-factor authentication (2FA)
Consider enabling 2FA whenever available. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second verification step, such as a code from your phone and your password when logging into an account.
This significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access even if your password is compromised.
9. Phishing Awareness
Be cautious of phishing attempts. Phishing emails or websites can appear legitimate, trying to trick you into revealing your login credentials or clicking on malicious links.
Avoid entering your IP address or other sensitive information on websites you don't trust.
10. Public Wi-Fi with Caution
Public Wi-Fi networks can be insecure. Avoid accessing sensitive accounts or transferring confidential information while connected to public Wi-Fi.
If you must use public Wi-Fi, consider using a VPN to encrypt your internet traffic for added security.
11. Beware of Social Engineering
Social engineering tactics involve manipulating users into divulging personal information or clicking on malicious links.
Be wary of unsolicited calls, emails, or messages requesting your IP address or other sensitive details. Legitimate companies typically won't ask for your IP address through such methods.
12. Unique Passwords for Each Account
While managing multiple passwords can be challenging, resist the temptation to re-use the same password for different accounts.
A data breach on one website could compromise all your accounts if you use the same login credentials.
Consider using a password manager to help you generate and store strong, unique passwords for all your online services.
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13. Regular Password Updates
Develop a habit of updating your passwords periodically, especially for critical accounts like email and online banking.
Aim to change passwords every few months or whenever you suspect a security breach.
14. Beware of Spyware and Malware
Spyware or malware can lurk on your device, potentially capturing your keystrokes or other sensitive information, including your IP address.
Ensure you have installed reputable antivirus and anti-malware software and keep it up-to-date to protect your device from such threats.
15. IP Logging and Privacy
Be aware that some websites and services might log your IP address for various purposes, such as analytics or tracking your location.
Please review the privacy policies of websites you visit to understand how they handle your IP address and other data.
A Final Word
By following these tips and incorporating a healthy dose of caution, you can construct passwords that are formidable fortresses against cyberattacks.
Remember, a strong password is the first defence in safeguarding your online identity and valuable information.
What do you think about this? Let us know by dropping a comment below.
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About the Author:
Abraham Faisal is a professional content writer. He has a strong passion for online privacy, cybersecurity and blockchain and is an advocate for online privacy. He has been writing about these topics since 2018 and is a regular contributor to a number of publications. He has a degree in Computer Science and has in-depth knowledge of the ever-evolving world of digital security. In his free time, he likes to travel and explore new cultures.
Daniel Segun is the Founder and CEO of SecureBlitz Cybersecurity Media, with a background in Computer Science and Digital Marketing. When not writing, he's probably busy designing graphics or developing websites.
