Most platforms request passwords, this means that we have to memorize dozens of them. So some choose to use the same one in several places to avoid forgetting it, however, this represents a cybersecurity problem.
This practice called recycling passwords weakens our security and can pose serious risks to our privacy.
Using the same password on multiple accounts represents a significant risk to online security. This behavior exposes users to vulnerabilities that can be exploited by attackers using techniques such as credential stuffing.
This method refers to the use of stolen or leaked access credentials to try to access multiple accounts. The effectiveness of this attack is based on the common practice of reusing the same password in different digital services, ESET points out.
Using the same password increases the chances that if one account is compromised, other accounts will also be compromised. Attackers leverage exposed credential databases to conduct automated attacks, trying username and password combinations across a multitude of websites and applications.
This approach allows cybercriminals to access higher-value accounts, such as bank or email accounts, with relatively little effort and cost.
This type of attack highlights the importance of implementing robust security practices, such as using unique and complex passwords for each account, as well as enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) when available.
2FA adds an extra layer of security by requiring not only the password but also a unique code sent to the user’s device or generated by an authenticator app.
To create strong passwords that increase the security of your accounts and minimize the risk of unauthorized access, follow these recommendations:
- Use a combination of characters: Include uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers and symbols in your passwords. This variety makes it difficult for attackers to guess or crack your password.
- Avoid common words and dates: Don’t use personal information that’s easy to find or guess, such as names, birthdays, or common dictionary words. Brute force attacks or “guessing” use this data to try to access your accounts.
- Password length: Make sure your passwords are at least 12 characters long. The longer the password, the more difficult it will be for an attacker to crack it using brute force techniques.
- Passphrases: Consider using passphrases. These are sequences of words that create a long but easy-to-remember phrase. For example, “CaféConLecheAlas8!” It is safer than “cafe123″.
- Change passwords regularly: Even if a password is strong, it is advisable to change it periodically, especially if you receive a security alert for one of your accounts.
To memorize passwords effectively without sacrificing their complexity and security, these methods can be applied:
- Phrase method: Choose a long and meaningful phrase for you. Use the first letters of each word, combining them with numbers and symbols. For example, of the phrase “The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog” could take the initials “Erzmssep” and transform it into a strong password by adding numbers and symbols: “Er2zm$sep21″.
- Favorite song or poem technique: Use lyrics from your favorite song, book, or poem as the basis for your password. You can take the first letter of each word on a specific line and modify it by including capital letters, numbers, and symbols.
To maintain security, be sure not to share your memory methods or passwords with others.and consider using a password manager to manage multiple complex passwords.
