Help With Password Security

Passwords are your first line of defense against cyber criminals. Some the most effective ways of protecting your accounts are also the most practical. Below are practical password security tips for your entire organization.  

Creating Strong Passwords:

• Length: Use passwords that are at least 12–16 characters long for stronger protection.
• Complexity: Combine uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special symbols.
• Uniqueness: Create a unique password for every account. Don’t reuse passwords across sites; if one is breached, others could be compromised.
• Avoid Personal Information: Do not use names, birthdays, pet names, or details found on social media.
• Consider Passphrases: Choose a memorable phrase made of random words; these are both strong and easier to recall.
• Don’t Use Common Passwords: Stay away from easy-to-guess passwords like “123456” or “password.”  

Fun Passwords Facts

Cybernews identifies “123456” as the most frequently used password worldwide.

 Keeper Security reports that 37% of U.S. employees incorporate their employer’s name into a work-related password.

A Google/Harris Poll survey found that:

• 33% use a pet’s name.
• 22% use their own name.
• 15% use a spouse or partner’s name.
• 14% use their children’s names

Protecting Your Passwords:

• Never share your passwords. Keep them private, even with trusted friends or family.
• Don’t store passwords where they can be easily found, like on sticky notes or in unencrypted files.
• Use a password manager to securely store and generate strong, unique passwords for each account, so you only need to remember one.
• Turn on Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring another verification step, such as a code sent to your phone or an authentication app.

Recognizing and Avoiding Password Security Risks:

• Brute Force and Dictionary Attacks: Cybercriminals use automated tools to repeatedly guess passwords or try lists of common passwords.
• Phishing and Social Engineering: Attackers attempt to trick you into revealing your passwords by posing as trusted contacts or organizations.
• Credential Stuffing and Password Spraying: Threat actors use stolen passwords from one breach to access other accounts (credential stuffing) or try commonly used passwords across many accounts (password spraying).
• Keylogging and Man-in-the-Middle Attacks: Malicious software may record your keystrokes, or attackers may intercept data between your device and websites to steal login credentials.

Cybersecurity isn’t just about technology; it’s also about people and processes. We should think deeply about how we interact with technology. It’s essential for us to recognize the human aspect behind safety measures. We must communicate effectively, create a culture of awareness, and ensure everyone knows their role in protecting sensitive information.

This reminder underscores that effective cybersecurity relies on more than just technical solutions—it depends on people and processes working in concert. Every team member plays a vital role in shaping a security-first culture, maintaining clear communication, and upholding awareness. Empowering individuals with knowledge and accountability are critical to protecting sensitive data and supporting organizational resilience.

IBM reports that nearly 50% of all data breaches are linked to compromised passwords

CorpInfoTech, a Managed Service Provider (MSP) with over 25 years in the SMB space, is a trusted partner for business pursuing compliance and cybersecurity. We are a CMMC Level 2 (C3PAO) certified MSP and a Cyber AB Registered Provider Organization (RPO). Also, as the first CIS accredited organization, we help organizations implement the CIS controls as it pertains to CMMC and your overall cybersecurity posture. CorpInfoTech is your trusted partner for secure, compliant growth in every changing digital landscape.