The importance of secure passwords and online safety
Celebrating World Password Day by building a safer cyber world, one strong password at a time
Published May 3, 2023 02:04 am
May 4 is World Password Day, an annual event that raises awareness about the importance of strong and secure passwords in protecting our digital identities and personal information. With the world becoming increasingly digital, it’s more important than ever to review and strengthen our passwords to keep our online presence safe from cyber threats.
World Password Day was first celebrated in 2013 after being championed by Intel Security to remind individuals and businesses of the importance of secure passwords. Since then, the day has evolved into a global awareness campaign, with many organizations and individuals participating in various events and initiatives designed to promote better password security.
Ian Leysen, CEO, CSO, and Co-Founder of Datadobi, emphasizes the importance of World Password Day as a reminder for individuals and businesses about the critical role of password security in protecting sensitive data. He points out that companies should also implement data governance policies and technology solutions to safeguard their sensitive information from cyber-attacks, in addition to employing strong passwords.
To create a strong password, experts recommend following these guidelines:
* Length: Aim for a minimum of 12 characters. Longer passwords are more difficult for hackers to crack.
* Complexity: Use a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters to make it more challenging for cybercriminals to guess.
* Unpredictability: Avoid using easily identifiable information, such as names, dates, or common phrases. Instead, opt for random combinations or a passphrase that is meaningful to you but difficult for others to guess.
* Uniqueness: Refrain from using the same password across multiple accounts. Doing so can put all your accounts at risk if one is compromised.
In addition to creating strong passwords, experts recommend using two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible. This adds an extra layer of security, requiring not only your password but also a second piece of information, such as a code sent to your mobile device, before granting access to your account. Don Boxley, CEO and Co-Founder of DH2i, states that while strong and unique passwords are crucial, they should be considered a first line, not the only line, of defense. He highlights the importance of employing additional security measures, such as Software-Defined Perimeters (SDP), which offer more secure and efficient alternatives to traditional VPNs. SDP solutions provide direct access to data endpoints without intermediaries, preventing lateral network attacks and offering complete control over the data stream. Steve Santamaria, CEO of Folio Photonics, highlights the growing threat of cybercrime and the importance of using strong and unique passwords. He also stresses the need for multiple layers of data protection, including two-factor authentication, encryption, and regular system updates. Santamaria suggests that having a secure, tamper-free data archive using Write-Once-Read-Many (WORM) media can help recover from ransomware attacks or other data loss events. He further recommends air-gapping data archives, which involves physically disconnecting them from the internet or any network connection, making it virtually impossible for cybercriminals to access them. To join in the World Password Day celebrations and improve your password security, consider taking the following steps:
1. Review your current passwords and update any weak, short, or reused ones across multiple accounts. 2. Enable 2FA on your accounts to add an extra layer of protection. 3. Educate yourself: Take the time to learn about password security best practices, such as creating strong and unique passwords, using two-factor authentication, and regularly updating your passwords. 4. Share on social media: Post on your social media accounts using the hashtag #WorldPasswordDay to raise awareness about the importance of password security. Share tips, resources, or personal stories related to password security to engage with others. 5. Promote World Password Day at work or school: If you are an employee or student, consider organizing an awareness event, workshop, or presentation about password security at your workplace or educational institution. Encourage your colleagues or classmates to participate and discuss ways to improve their own password security habits. By participating in World Password Day, you are contributing to a more secure online environment for yourself and helping to create a safer digital world for everyone. Remember that maintaining strong and unique passwords is just one part of a comprehensive approach to online security. Stay vigilant and educate yourself about cybersecurity best practices to protect your digital identity and personal information from potential threats.
In addition to creating strong passwords, experts recommend using two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible. This adds an extra layer of security, requiring not only your password but also a second piece of information, such as a code sent to your mobile device, before granting access to your account. Don Boxley, CEO and Co-Founder of DH2i, states that while strong and unique passwords are crucial, they should be considered a first line, not the only line, of defense. He highlights the importance of employing additional security measures, such as Software-Defined Perimeters (SDP), which offer more secure and efficient alternatives to traditional VPNs. SDP solutions provide direct access to data endpoints without intermediaries, preventing lateral network attacks and offering complete control over the data stream. Steve Santamaria, CEO of Folio Photonics, highlights the growing threat of cybercrime and the importance of using strong and unique passwords. He also stresses the need for multiple layers of data protection, including two-factor authentication, encryption, and regular system updates. Santamaria suggests that having a secure, tamper-free data archive using Write-Once-Read-Many (WORM) media can help recover from ransomware attacks or other data loss events. He further recommends air-gapping data archives, which involves physically disconnecting them from the internet or any network connection, making it virtually impossible for cybercriminals to access them. To join in the World Password Day celebrations and improve your password security, consider taking the following steps:
1. Review your current passwords and update any weak, short, or reused ones across multiple accounts. 2. Enable 2FA on your accounts to add an extra layer of protection. 3. Educate yourself: Take the time to learn about password security best practices, such as creating strong and unique passwords, using two-factor authentication, and regularly updating your passwords. 4. Share on social media: Post on your social media accounts using the hashtag #WorldPasswordDay to raise awareness about the importance of password security. Share tips, resources, or personal stories related to password security to engage with others. 5. Promote World Password Day at work or school: If you are an employee or student, consider organizing an awareness event, workshop, or presentation about password security at your workplace or educational institution. Encourage your colleagues or classmates to participate and discuss ways to improve their own password security habits. By participating in World Password Day, you are contributing to a more secure online environment for yourself and helping to create a safer digital world for everyone. Remember that maintaining strong and unique passwords is just one part of a comprehensive approach to online security. Stay vigilant and educate yourself about cybersecurity best practices to protect your digital identity and personal information from potential threats.