When it comes to passwords, many internet users prioritize convenience over security . More than one in three online users (36 percent) in Germany uses the same password for multiple online services. This is the result of a representative survey of more than 1,000 internet users in Germany commissioned by the digital association Bitkom .
“A single password for multiple online services is a major security risk,” says Teresa Ritter, Bitkom IT security expert. “Once such a universal password is cracked, cybercriminals can take over multiple users’ digital identities.” However, the majority are concerned with using secure passwords.
Almost two-thirds (63 percent) say: “When creating new passwords, I make sure they use a mix of letters, numbers, and special characters.” Three out of ten internet users (31 percent) change their passwords regularly. And 8 percent say they use a password generator or password safe to create and manage their passwords.
“Long words with different characters – that’s a simple rule of thumb for good passwords,” says Ritter. Even the longest passwords don’t offer perfect protection against cybercriminals . However, following these tips can significantly hamper cyberattacks:
Use complex passwords
The more complex the password, the greater job seekers database the protection. Nevertheless, simple passwords are often used in everyday life. With a trick, even difficult passwords can be easily remembered by using clever mnemonics.
To generate passwords with letters, numbers, and special characters, the initial letters of made-up sentences are taken, for example: “My club won the decisive game 3-2!” From this, a secure and easy-to-remember password can be created: “MVgdeSm3z2!”.
The password manager as a password safe
Password managers store all used passwords in an encrypted file. Users only have to remember one password, the master password. This password should meet the highest standards.
Once entered, you gain access to all saved passwords. Some programs even offer the option of saving not only passwords but also the corresponding usernames. If desired, the programs will automatically fill in the requested fields upon login.
Double security level
Some services now offer multi-factor authentication, meaning users must answer more than one security question to access an account.
For example, after the password request, david risack you’ll receive a text message with a code on your mobile phone. A field will appear at the same time, requesting the transmitted code. If available, this option should be enabled.
Updates, updates, updates
Without an up-to-date virus scanner, surfing the internet can be very dangerous – whether on a desktop computer or smartphone . This makes belgium numbers it all the more important to keep your virus software up-to-date. Users should take their virus software’s update notices seriously. The same applies to the operating system, browser, add-ons, and other programs.
