Too many accounts, too many passwords. No wonder people use “password123” or repeat the same one everywhere, skipping multi-factor authentication and password managers because security feels like extra work.
The problem is that most people assume they won't be targeted, not realizing that hackers can crack an 8-character password in seconds. Even just one weak password can cost you stolen accounts, drained bank accounts, and identity theft.
Ignoring password security can quickly turn into an expensive nightmare and weak passwords make you an easy target.
Following, we’ll share password security best practices and strong password examples that will instantly improve your password strength and give you peace of mind.
In 2024, a Forbes report revealed that smart-guessing technology had collectively cracked 87 million passwords in less than 60 seconds.
This means your password might not be as secure as you think, and that's because bad actors are no longer just guessing; they're using advanced password-cracking algorithms.
Threat actors use multiple techniques to expose passwords, including:
With these tools, short and simple passwords like password123 orqwerty are broken almost instantly. Even passwords that seem strong can be cracked if they follow predictable patterns.
If your password isn't long, unique, and random, it's vulnerable. Using strong password security best practices is critical to protecting your sensitive data.
The right security habits often serve as your first line of defense against threat actors. Here are the most common methods they use and how you can stay one step ahead.
A password alone isn’t enough anymore. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security by requiring two or more verification steps before granting access to your account.
Even if hackers steal your password, they still can’t log in without the second factor.
Standard MFA methods include:
Enabling MFA greatly reduces the risk of unauthorized access, making it much harder for data thieves to break into your accounts. Whenever possible, choose app-based authentication or biometrics over SMS codes, as SIM-swapping attacks can compromise text-based authentication.
Hackers rely on weak, predictable passwords to break into accounts. If your password is short or includes obvious details, like your birthday or pet’s name, it’s an easy target. Instead, follow password security best practices by switching to a longer, more complex passphrase.
The longer your password, the harder it is to crack. Modern hackers use brute-force attacks to guess passwords in seconds, but increasing your password length exponentially improves password strength.
Aim for at least 16 characters using a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
Not sure where to start? Here are a few strong password examples:
Avoid predictable substitutions like "P@ssw0rd" or "Admin123"—hackers know those tricks.
Using unique, long passwords for every account might seem overwhelming, but password managers make it easy. These tools securely store and autofill your passwords, so you don’t have to remember them all.
Let’s face it: keeping track of multiple complex passwords is nearly impossible. Yet password security best practices recommend using unique, strong passwords for every login.
A password manager solves this problem by securely storing and auto-filling your passwords so you don’t have to remember them all. Without a password manager, you’re more likely to:
Password managers like 1Password, LastPass, and Bitwarden generate and store long, unique passwords for every account, allowing you to improve password strength without sacrificing convenience.
Using a password manager means you can create strong passwords without worrying about remembering them and because each account has its own unique password, it reduces the risk of credential stuffing attacks. Plus, autofill features save time while keeping your logins secure.
Hear from the World's Most Famous Hacker on password managers and online safety >>>
It might seem like common sense, but one of the biggest cybersecurity risks comes from sharing your login credentials, even with people you trust.
Threat actors use social engineering tactics to deceive people into handing over their passwords. Instead of hacking into your account directly, they pose as trusted sources, like your boss, IT department, or even your bank, to convince you to share sensitive information.
Common tactics include:
Never share your password; no exceptions.
Hackers use fake urgency to trick you. If someone asks for your login, verify their identity another way. Use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) to keep your accounts safe, even if your password gets stolen.
If you ever receive an email, text, or phone call asking for your password, security codes, or other sensitive data, stop and verify. Legitimate organizations will never ask for your password via email or phone.
Your password is the first line of defense against cyber threats. At Mitnick Security, our Global Ghost Team™ knows all too well that passwords are just one piece of the security puzzle.
To fortify your entire defense systems, download our free ebook and discover the 5 ½ essential steps to protect yourself.