It’s important to prioritize your online security by updating your passwords regularly. Many people still use weak and easy-to-guess passwords, contributing to the increase in cybercrime globally. According to a study by Redcentric, 20% of Brits use one or two passwords for all their online accounts, which is a risky practice. In light of National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, ethical hacker Joe Cockroft emphasizes the need to secure online platforms and create hack-resistant accounts.
Joe warns against using easily identifiable information in passwords, such as favorite football teams, family names, or hometowns, as they can be easily guessed by threat actors. He explains that popular UK passwords often include football team names and lack complexity, making them vulnerable to hacking. The National Cyber Security Centre advises against frequently changing passwords, recommending better password hygiene instead. However, passwords should be changed immediately if there is a suspected compromise.
Avoid using common passwords like “123456” or “password,” as they are among the most widely used codes in the UK and put your accounts at risk. Here are the top 10 passwords to avoid:
– 123456
– password
– qwerty
– liverpool
– 123456789
– arsenal
– 12345678
– 12345
– abc123
– chelsea
To create strong passwords, follow these tips from Joe:
– Use complex passwords
– Avoid re-using passwords for different accounts
– Regularly check for any compromises in your accounts using websites like Have I Been Pwned.
By taking these precautions and choosing secure passwords, you can better protect your online accounts from cyber threats. Remember that online security is essential in today’s digital age, so prioritize your safety by updating your passwords and following best practices recommended by experts like Joe Cockroft.
