As we spend more and more of our lives online, we are becoming at a more serious and increased risk of data breaches and cyberattacks. We must all be proactive to stay safe online and – believe it or not – it all starts with something as simple as our password hygiene.

Leading domain name and server provider, Fasthosts, urges both businesses and individuals to prioritise their password security. With cybercrime on the rise and data breaches big and small continuing to threaten everyone’s personal data, digital safeguarding has never been more important.

Passwords remain a primary entry point for hackers to prey on vulnerable businesses and individuals, and no matter how secure you think yours is, there’s always a way to make things safer.

Why password security is important for everyone

According to Verizon’s 2020 Data Breach Investigations Report (DBIR), over 80% of data breaches are caused by weak or stolen passwords, and experts warn that without stronger security measures, that percentage will keep increasing. Even one compromised password can expose sensitive data, including customer information, financial records, business details, and personal banking information. With cyberattacks on the rise, there’s never been a better time to reassess.

Five password security best practices

  1. Use strong and unique passwords – Avoid using the same password across multiple sites, as doing this can leave all your accounts vulnerable. Create strong passwords with at least 12 characters, including a mix of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.

 

  1. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) – Add an extra layer of protection by requiring a second verification step (e.g. a code sent to your phone or device) in addition to your password.

 

  1. Use a password manager – A password manager helps store and generate secure passwords, reducing the risk of using weak or reused passwords by generating unique and complex passwords. It also stores them securely so you don’t need to worry about remembering dozens of unique ones.

 

  1. Be cautious of phishing scams – Always verify the source of emails or messages requesting login credentials, and avoid clicking on suspicious links that could be phishing attempts if you are even the slightest bit unsure. Check that websites are secure before entering any details, and confirm messages received are legitimate before opening links that may look suspicious.

 

  1. Update passwords regularly – Changing your passwords regularly is another critical measure to staying safe online as it minimises the risk of ongoing exposure in the event of a data breach. We recommend changing your passwords every three to six months to stay ahead of potential threats.

Password security is a reminder for everyone …

Password security is for everyone. Everyone must be vigilant to reassess their password security practices and take action to create strong passwords. Whether you are an individual or a business owner, ensuring that your passwords are strong, unique, and regularly updated can make all the difference in preventing a security breach.