Using malicious password generators

Using malicious password generators
PN_PHOTO/GETTY IMAGES

“As a rule of thumb, people should not rely on online services that generate passwords. It is a risk. A naive Internet user will not have the ability to inspect the source code of the website to ensure that the password generation is being performed in a safe way or not. Safe password generation would mean that the password was generated entirely using client-side code like JavaScript within the browser and it was never transmitted to the server. So, people are advised to avoid using online password-generating services. Hackers with malicious intentions can set up such websites to lure users to select good, quality passwords while they are caching the generated password.” —Singh

Advertisement

Choosing passwords you can’t remember

Choosing passwords you can’t remember
VINNSTOCK/GETTY IMAGES

“I find that the most effective passwords meet a couple of criteria. First, they are complex in length and structure, use no or few words, and can be easily remembered. Phrases from lyrics and rhymes work for me. Take Jack and Jill as an example. There are many different passwords a user could create simply from a nursery rhyme that has nothing to do with your family, pets, dates, or locations and can be easy to remember. J&JwUth3H1ll or J4ckAJ1llwUptH1!! These are strong passwords yet memorable.” —Terry Ray, Senior Vice President at Imperva.

 

Not using a reputable password manager

Not using a reputable password manager
SHIRONOSOV/GETTY IMAGES

“How can you keep track of all of these passwords? Not on sticky notes or on files you save to your computer called passwords! We recommend simple-to-use password managers such as LastPass or similar to securely manage your passwords and secret ‘codes.’” —Greg Keller, Chief Strategy Officer at JumpCloud.

Next, here are 16 clear signs you’re about to be hacked.

Sign up here to get Reader’s Digest’s favourite stories straight to your inbox!

Source: RD.com

Never miss a deal again - sign up now!

Connect with us: