Best practices for creating strong passwords and using secure authentication methods to protect accounts and systems.
Passwords and authentication are the first line of defense against unauthorized access. Weak or reused credentials are one of the most common causes of security breaches. Strong passwords combined with secure authentication methods significantly reduce the risk of compromise.Why It Matters?
Attackers exploit poor password practices to:- Gain unauthorized access to systems and data
- Launch phishing and credential-stuffing attacks
- Move laterally across networks
- Steal sensitive or confidential information
Common Password Risks
- Using weak or predictable passwords
- Reusing the same password across multiple accounts
- Sharing passwords with others
- Writing passwords down or storing them insecurely
- Falling for phishing emails or fake login pages
Strong Password Best Practices
Do’s
- Use long passwords or passphrases (12–16+ characters)
- Combine letters, numbers, and symbols
- Use a unique password for each account
- Use an approved password manager
- Change passwords immediately if compromised
Don’t
- Reuse passwords across work and personal accounts
- Share passwords with anyone
- Store passwords in plain text
- Use easily guessed information (names, birthdays)
- Click suspicious login links
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
What Is MFA?
Multi-Factor Authentication requires two or more verification methods, such as:- Something you know (password)
- Something you have (phone, token)
- Something you are (fingerprint, face ID)
Why MFA Is Important
- Prevents access even if a password is stolen
- Stops most phishing and credential-based attacks
- Adds a critical extra layer of protection
Authentication Best Practices
- Enable MFA on all supported accounts
- Verify website URLs before logging in
- Report unexpected MFA prompts immediately
- Log out of shared or public devices
- Follow company authentication policies
Real-World Example
An employee reuses a work password on a personal website. That site is breached, and attackers use the same password to access company systems. ➡️ One reused password leads to a full compromise.Key Takeaway
Strong passwords and secure authentication protect both you and the organization.A strong password plus MFA can stop most cyberattacks before they start.
