Password security is crucial in the digital world, where cyber attacks constantly threaten our online safety. The humble password is one of the most vulnerable aspects of our cyber security and user accounts. Hackers to crack passwords using brute force statistics sounds better compared to a few years ago when the time it takes hackers to crack is increasing.
So, what can we do to strengthen our defences? It is time to reconsider password strategies, including adopting multi-factor authentication (MFA), biometric authentication, and utilising password managers.
A Continuously Evolving Landscape
Many people still rely on personal information for their passwords. However, this is far from sufficient in today’s threat landscape.
For instance, in 2023, an 8-character numeric password became vulnerable to hacking almost instantly. To counteract this, many organisations now enforce stricter password policies, requiring at least 8 characters, including a mix of numbers, uppercase and lowercase letters, and symbols. These measures are projected to extend the time needed for brute-force attacks to nearly seven years by 2024.
A more secure option is a 12-character password that combines numbers and both upper and lowercase letters—this can take millions of years to crack. This evolution in password strength highlights the need for continually updating security practices, such as using passphrases. However, as hacking techniques and computational power continue to improve, we must remain vigilant in protecting our passwords.
Preparing for the Future of Cyber security
The time required to crack passwords can indicate the need for more secure and innovative approaches to cyber security. As we look to the future, technologies like biometric authentication are likely to become more prevalent. These methods, which rely on unique physical characteristics, offer a more secure and user-friendly alternative to traditional passwords.
Key Takeaways:
- Regularly update your passwords and avoid using easily guessable information.
- MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring additional verification.
- Stay informed about the latest cyber security threats and best practices to maintain robust security.
- Explore alternative authentication methods, such as biometric authentication
- Consider using tools like Keeper Password Manager to enhance your password security.
Conclusion
The future of password security is still evolving, but one thing is clear: traditional passwords are no longer enough. By adopting proactive measures—like password security protocols, multi-factor authentication, and exploring emerging technologies—individuals and organisations can protect themselves from ever-growing cyber risks.
Not sure where to start? Conduct a self-assessment using the Essential Eight Checklist to determine the best security strategy for your organisation.
Contact us today to discuss how our experts can help safeguard your business!
