How confident are you in the security of your passwords? Does the belief that longer passwords are always safer hold true? Well, it’s time for an important discussion about password security.
Fresh research has uncovered a startling truth – even 15-character passwords can be compromised. Yes, you heard it correctly. It’s time to confront the harsh reality that length doesn’t always equate to strength.
The most compromised password length happens to be eight characters. However, longer ones, such as 15 characters, also find themselves among the top ten compromised lengths.
You might wonder, “How is this possible?” The answer lies not only in the length of the password but also in its complexity and whether it’s used across multiple sites.
The notorious “password” itself holds the title of the most compromised eight-character password, while the 15-character password “Sym_newhireOEIE” also ranks among the most compromised.
Doesn’t exactly inspire confidence, does it?
This issue isn’t limited to individuals alone. Businesses like yours face significant risks as well. A staggering 86% of cyber attacks originate from stolen credentials, indicating that nearly nine out of ten attacks start this way. Can you afford to be nonchalant?
Certainly, longer passwords provide more resistance to brute force cracking. An eight-character password can be cracked in five minutes, whereas a robust 15-character one might take up to 37 million years, provided it’s random and doesn’t follow any discernible pattern. Impressive, isn’t it?
However, remember that this is only one aspect of the larger picture. Length alone won’t shield you from stolen credentials through phishing attacks.
Utilize a dependable business password manager. Not only will it generate lengthy, random passwords for you, but it will also store and automatically input them into the login box.
Additionally, implement two-factor authentication, which requires generating a code on a separate device to verify your identity. Even if cyber criminals manage to crack your password, they still won’t be able to access your data.
If you require assistance in enhancing your business’s security, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.