CHOOSING A SECURE PASSWORD
According to internet security provider Norton, 'the shorter and less complex your password is, the quicker it can be for the program to come up with the correct combination of characters.
The longer and more complex your password is, the less likely the attacker will use the brute force method, because of the lengthy amount of time it will take for the program to figure it out.
'Instead, they'll use a method called a dictionary attack, where the program will cycle through a predefined list of common words that are used in passwords.'
Here are some steps to follow when creating a new password:
DO:
- Use a combination of numbers, symbols, uppercase and lowercase letters
- Ensure that the password is at least eight characters long
- Use abbreviated phrases for passwords
- Change your passwords regularly
- Log out of websites and devices after you have finished using them
DO NOT:
- Choose a commonly used password like '123456', 'password', 'qwerty' or '111111'
- Use a solitary word. Hackers can use dictionary-based systems to crack passwords
- Use a derivative of your name, family member's name, pet's name, phone number, address or birthday
- Write your password down, share it or let anyone else use your login details
- Answer 'yes' when asked to save your password to a computer browser
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