Cyber criminals are a threat to businesses of all types because of their ability to steal or sabotage important data. Companies’ network security becomes jeopardized when their defense mechanisms like password protection and anti-virus software are out-of-date and ineffective.
As many users and companies still rely on passwords to protect their information, best password protection practices are extremely valuable. Weak passwords often lead to an account being accessed by hackers, resulting in confidential information being leaked. Surprisingly, over 20 million internet account users still have “123456” set as their password for at least one account.
In an effort to reduce the number of data breaches, we’ll discuss what password protection is, along with the importance of implementing good cyber hygiene to increase the effectiveness of password protection.
What is Password Protection?
Password protection is a security measure used to protect information from unauthorized access. Passwords are typically used to authenticate users before they’re granted access to resources on a network. They function by verifying the credentials provided by the user against a database of authorized users. If the credentials match, the user is granted access to the requested resource. If the credentials don’t match, access is denied.
Protecting the data and information of both the business and consumer is a high priority for every company. Using strong passwords is a key step in that protection process.
Why Are Strong Passwords Important?
Strong passwords are essential for protecting both users and companies from cyber attacks and data loss. By definition, a strong password is difficult to guess or crack and provides an adequate level of security.
Close to 60% of users use personal information, including a name or birthday, in the password they create. While these passwords might be easy for the user to remember, they’re just as easy for a hacker to guess. A common method for cyber criminals to gain access to an account is through what’s called a brute force attack.
A brute force attack is where a hacker uses automated tools to guess passwords until they find the right combination that gives them access. These tools can try thousands of different password combinations in just a matter of minutes.
Another cyber threat that accounts and networks face are phishing attacks. Phishing attacks happen when a hacker sends an email that appears to be from an authentic source in order to steal sensitive information like passwords. The email might ask the user to click on a link or open an attachment, which will then install malware on the user’s computer.
One of the best ways to protect yourself from brute force and phishing attacks is by using strong passwords. By having a complex password that’s difficult to guess, you’re less likely to fall victim to these types of attacks.
How To Ensure You’ve Created A Strong Password
When creating a strong password, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind. The first thing you’ll want to consider is the password length. The longer the password, the more difficult it is for hackers to guess and gain access. Some tips for strengthening your passwords include:
- Use a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
- Avoid using the same password for multiple accounts.
- Create a unique phrase that you can easily remember but would be difficult for someone else to guess.
One way to further protect your accounts is by changing your passwords on a regular basis. While it can be inconvenient to have to update all your passwords frequently, it’s a simple way to stay ahead of hackers. Remember never to share your password with others as it can lead to your account being compromised as well.
Utilize a Password Manager for Enhanced Password Protection
If you’re looking for a way to keep track of all your different passwords, you might want to consider using a password manager. A password manager is a software that stores all your passwords in an encrypted format. This way, you only have to remember one master password to gain access to all your other accounts.
There are a variety of different password managers available, and many of them offer free versions. Find one that is simple to use and fits the needs of your company.
Protect Your Business from Cyber Attacks with ThrottleNet
Businesses of all sizes are at risk for cyber attacks, which can result in the theft or destruction of important data. ThrottleNet offers comprehensive security solutions that protect businesses from these threats. Our team of experts is dedicated to providing the best possible protection for our clients. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help protect your business from cyber attacks.
