How to create secure passwords

Weak passwords pose a significant security threat to your business.

Why is this the case?

Cyber criminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated. If they crack a single password, they might access your sensitive business data, financial details, or even take control of your entire system.

These criminals use automated tools to guess passwords, trying millions of combinations in mere seconds. Using passwords like “Password123” or “CompanyName2025” is akin to giving them the keys to your business.

A compromised password can result in serious problems, such as:

·         Data breaches

·         Financial losses

·         Identity theft

·         Reputation damage

So, how can you create strong passwords without overwhelming yourself and your team?

Think of your password as a secret recipe known only to you. It should:

·         Be at least 14 characters long (the longer, the better)

·         Include a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters

·         Contain some numbers and symbols (like @, $, %, or &)

·         Avoid common words or easily guessed information (like birthdays, names, or the word “password”)

Instead of a single word, consider using a passphrase—a short, random sentence only you understand. For instance, instead of “Sailing2025”, try “Coffee&CloudsAreGreat9!”. This is much harder to crack, yet easy to remember.

Avoid these common pitfalls:

·         Using personal details (your name, birthday, business name, etc.)

·         Reusing passwords across multiple accounts

·         Using simple sequences (“123456” or “abcdef”)

·         Storing passwords in easily accessible places (like a sticky note on your desk)

If remembering unique passwords for every account seems daunting, consider using password managers. These tools generate strong passwords, store them securely, and autofill them for you.

With a password manager, you only need to remember one strong master password for the manager itself. The rest are encrypted and stored safely, reducing the risk of data breaches.

Even the strongest password isn’t infallible, which is why multi-factor authentication (MFA) is essential. MFA requires a second form of verification, like a one-time code sent to your phone or generated by an authentication app.

If your employees access your business systems, it's wise to implement a password policy outlining your rules and their importance. This should include:

·         Unique passwords for each system and account

·         Regular security training on password best practices

·         Business-wide use of MFA for critical systems

·         Regular scans for compromised passwords

Prioritizing password security can significantly reduce the likelihood of a cyber attack wreaking havoc on your business.

If you need assistance in enhancing your business's security, feel free to reach out.