Ultimate Guide to Creating Strong Passwords
With Expert Tips

Passwords

4z8$h73$!P

Looks like gibberish?

Exactly - That's the point

When it comes to hacking or cracking, good passwords are very hard for hackers to actually crack. Passwords on average would take a Hackers brute force attack years at running full time to crack. What is normally done is they try to find a back door or try to find out information about you and use that to guess your password

Why Strong Passwords Matter

Before delving into the specifics of password creation, it's essential to understand why strong passwords are necessary:

• • Security Breaches: Data breaches are a common occurrence, with malicious actors constantly attempting to steal passwords to gain unauthorized access to accounts.
• • Personal Privacy: Your passwords protect sensitive personal and financial information, ensuring it remains confidential and secure.
• • Legal and Financial Ramifications: Inadequate password security can lead to financial loss, identity theft, and legal liabilities.

What Makes a Strong Password?

Passwords should consist of at least eight characters, but 12 or more is recommended. Your password should contain uppercase and lowercase characters, numbers, spaces, and special characters, if possible

Protect Your Passwords

One of the best ways to ensure that your online activities are safe and secure is to protect your passwords.

Protecting your passwords is in your control. You need to create a strong password and then make sure to keep it safe. Keep your passwords out of the wrong hands, and especially away from prying eyes

Password Basics To Keep You Safe

Before diving into the specifics of creating a strong password, it is essential to understand the basic principles of password security:

• • Length Matters: Longer passwords are generally stronger. Aim for a minimum of 12 characters whenever possible.
• • Complexity Counts: A strong password includes a combination of uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters (e.g., !, @, #, $).
• • Avoid Personal Information: Stay away from using easily guessable information like your name, birthdate, or common words.
• • Unique for Each Account: Using the same password across multiple accounts increases your vulnerability. Each account should have a unique password.
• • Regular Updates: Change your passwords periodically, especially for sensitive accounts like banking or email.
• • Use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Whenever available, enable 2FA for an added layer of security.

Anatomy of a Good Password

Do Not Use Short Passwords

Passwords should contain at least 10 characters. Even more characters are better, It will take longer for a hacker to crack or guess it.
From the FBI: Instead of using a short, complex password that is hard to remember, consider using a longer pass-phrase. This involves combining multiple words into a long string of at least 15 characters. The extra length of a passphrase makes it harder to crack, while also making it easier for you to remember.

Complex Passwords

To make your passwords even harder to crack they should contain both upper and lowercase alphabetic characters (A-Z, a-z)
Have at least 1 numerical character (0-9)
And have at least 1 special character (~!@#$%^&*()_-+=).

Common Password Mistakes

Common password mistakes include using easily guessable information like birthdays or common words, which make passwords vulnerable to dictionary attacks. Another mistake is using the same password across multiple accounts, increasing the risk of widespread compromise if one account is breached. Short passwords or those lacking complexity

• • Using Weak Passwords: This is perhaps the most prevalent mistake. Weak passwords include easily guessable combinations like "123456", "password", or common words such as "football" or "qwerty". These are the first combinations hackers try when attempting to breach an account.
• • Reusing Passwords: Many people use the same password across multiple accounts for convenience. While understandable, this practice is risky. If one account is compromised, hackers gain access to all others using the same password.
• • Lack of Complexity: A strong password should be a mix of letters (both uppercase and lowercase), numbers, and special characters. Avoid using simple patterns or sequences.
• • Not Updating Regularly: Keeping the same password for an extended period increases the likelihood of it being compromised. Regularly update your passwords to mitigate this risk.
• • Storing Passwords Insecurely: Writing down passwords on paper or storing them in easily accessible digital files (like a plaintext document on your desktop) undermines their security. Consider using reputable password managers instead.

What Passwords Should Never Use

• • A word or series of words that can be found in any dictionary
• • A word with only a Number added to the beginning and the end
• • Based on any personal information such as family name, a pet, any important dates, etc
• • Username or a part of the username in your password
• • Personal information about your family members or yourself
• • Sequence of consecutive letters, numbers or keyboard keys, such as “zxcv”, “12345”, “abcde”, etc
• • A combination of common words, such as “mydog”
• • A Blank Password

Password Generators

Password Generators are online tools designed to create complex, random, and highly secure passwords. The goal is to enhance online security by generating passwords difficult for hackers to guess or decipher. The complexity and randomness of generated passwords make them highly secure against brute force attacks and other hacking methods.
Warning: We never recommend using an "Online Password Generator" or any "Online Password Tools" unless you know they are from a trusted company.
We have heard too many horror stories that Hackers have actually set up password generating websites to collect passwords. Pretty ingenious on their part, Yes?

Passphrases

Passphrase can be a more secure way because they use a string of random words instead of a string of random characters. Passphrases also tend to be easier to remember, longer and more secure than most user-generated passwords. But it is important to remember that it is too short, it can still be vulnerable to brute-force attacks. For best results choose a master passphrase that is at least 20 characters long. It might be more difficult to remember a longer passphrase, But this is a small price to pay for the added security that comes with it.

cPanel

One of the best ways to create a strong password is right in cPanel
cPanel now comes with it's own built in password generator
Log into your cPanel then under:
Preferences > Password & Security > Password Generator

You can also check the strength of your password right within cPanel. There is a built in Password Strength Meter, Which is great for checking the strength of your passwords

Manually Created Passwords

To make a password manually, try the below steps

• Think of a phrase with at least eight words. It should be easy for you to remember, but hard for someone who knows you to guess. It could be a line from a favorite story, song lyric, or quotation you like.
Let us use this one for our example
"I Will Stop The World And Melt With You"

• Remove all but the first letter of each word in your phrase
IWSTWAM
- Strength meter: 43/100. A good starting place

• Replace several of the upper case letters with lower case ones, at random
iWstWAm
- Strength meter: 53/100. It is getting better

• Substitute a number for at least one of the letters. (changed the capital “W” to the number 3)
i3st3Am
- Strength meter: 67/100. This could work just the way it is, but lets keep going

• And now use some special characters ( $, &, +, !, @) to replace a letter or two -- preferably a letter that is repeated in the phrase. You can also add an extra character to the mix. (Here, we’ve replaced the “s” with “$”, and added an exclamation point at the end.)
i3$t3Am!
- Strength meter: 76/100. This one is pretty strong

You can see the different levels of strength with every change, and getting harder to hack with every step

Let's go a little crazy and add "rsh" so it looks like this
i3$t3Am!rsh
- Very Strong - 97/100. Now that's a Password!

Changing Your Password

We see all the time that you should change your password every 30 - 60 - 90 days
But if you have a good and strong password, why?
The new password you create may not be as good as the old one. Plus if you have to change, and change it often, you would be more likely to write it down or save it some place vs. memorizing the original one

We (RSH Web) has had the same password since 1997 for our main website. And being a Hosting company, we encounter Brute Force Attacks regularly. Never has our website been compromised.
Why would we change such a strong password? It would make no sense

Implementing Strong Password Policies

Implementing strong password policies is essential for enhancing cybersecurity in any organization. It involves defining guidelines for password complexity, length, and uniqueness across all accounts. Regular password updates, combined with education on avoiding common pitfalls and using multi-factor authentication (MFA), further fortify security. Enforcing these policies ensures employees and users understand the importance of strong passwords in safeguarding sensitive data and mitigating risks associated with unauthorized access and cyber threats.

Organization Policies

Businesses should enforce strong password policies among employees, including:

• • Training and Awareness: Educate employees about creating and maintaining strong passwords.
• • Password Rotation: Establish guidelines for regular password changes.
• • Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Encourage or mandate the use of MFA for enhanced security.

User Education

Educating users on the importance of strong passwords and providing resources and tools for creating and managing them effectively.

Technical Measures

Implementing technical controls such as:

• • Password Complexity Requirements: Enforcing rules for password creation, including length and character types.
• • Account Lockout: Temporarily lock accounts after multiple unsuccessful login attempts to deter brute-force attacks.

Password Management Products

There are good password manager software products on the market today. Using one of these products, you can create truly random, very long, and unique passwords for each site, and because the software will remember them for you, you never have to worry about what your password is. Your password manager will store and encrypt the passwords for you, and log you in automatically. Remember to only use well known or highly recommended password manager software

To help you organize your various login details. You can use popular password managers such as these:

• NordPass
  NordPass is a user-friendly password manager that offers secure storage and management of passwords, credit card details, and private notes. It employs strong encryption standards like XChaCha20 to safeguard user data. NordPass features password generation, auto-fill capabilities, and supports biometric authentication. With a focus on simplicity and security, NordPass ensures reliable protection and ease of use across devices for individuals and teams alike.
• Robo Form
  RoboForm is a trusted password manager that securely stores and manages passwords, payment information, and personal data with AES-256 encryption. It features password generation, secure sharing, and form filling capabilities across devices. RoboForm includes advanced security features like two-factor authentication (2FA) and biometric login options, ensuring robust protection and convenience for users managing their digital credentials and sensitive information.
• 1Password
  1Password is a highly regarded password manager that ensures secure storage and management of passwords, credit card details, and sensitive information. It uses AES-256 encryption and offers features like password generation, secure sharing, and Travel Mode for added security during trips. 1Password integrates with popular platforms and provides comprehensive security measures, making it a reliable choice for individuals and teams alike
• Dashlane
  Dashlane is a comprehensive password manager that prioritizes security with AES-256 encryption for storing and managing passwords, personal information, and payment details. It features password generation, autofill, and digital wallet capabilities across devices. Dashlane offers dark web monitoring and VPN for added security layers, making it a robust solution for individuals and businesses seeking to protect sensitive information and enhance online security.
• LastPass
  LastPass is a widely trusted password manager that securely stores and manages passwords, ensuring strong encryption with AES-256 technology. It offers features like password generation, autofill, and secure notes across multiple devices. LastPass supports multi-factor authentication (MFA) and integrates seamlessly with browsers and mobile apps, making it a convenient and reliable choice for enhancing digital security and managing personal information effectively.
• Symantec Norton Password Manager
  Norton Identity Safe is a robust password manager that securely stores and manages passwords, credit card details, and addresses. It employs AES-256 encryption for data protection and offers features like password generation and autofill. Norton's solution includes a password generator, safe search, and a password strength meter, ensuring strong security measures to safeguard user credentials and sensitive information online.
• Avira Password Manager
  Avira Password Manager offers a secure solution for storing and managing passwords, ensuring user data remains protected with AES-256 encryption. It features password generation, autofill capabilities, and secure notes, enhancing convenience and security across devices. Avira's password manager prioritizes user privacy with zero-knowledge architecture, making it a reliable choice for safeguarding personal and sensitive information online.
• Bitwarden
  Bitwarden is a trusted open-source password manager that provides secure storage and management of passwords across devices. It offers end-to-end encryption, ensuring user data remains protected. Bitwarden supports features like password generation, secure sharing, and two-factor authentication (2FA), making it a versatile choice for individuals and businesses looking to enhance their digital security with user-friendly functionalities and strong privacy measures.
• Zoho Vault
  Zoho Vault offers a secure password manager solution for businesses and individuals. It facilitates safe storage, sharing, and management of passwords and sensitive data through strong encryption and multi-factor authentication. With features like secure password sharing and audit logs, Zoho Vault ensures reliable protection for organizational and personal information, enhancing overall security and efficiency.

From Google, Create a strong password and a more secure account

And just for fun, What are the most funny passwords that you came across

Password Tips

• • Keep the password safe
• • Never share your password
• • Do not write down your password
• • Do not store a password on the device
• • At least 8 characters long, but 12 or more is better
• • Do not share a password with anyone. Not even a friend or family member
• • Never send a complete password by email, instant message, or any other means of communication that is not completely secure
• • Use a combination of upper, lower, numbers and special characters
• • Avoid using people or your pet’s names
• • Avoid words found in the dictionary
• • Avoid using important dates (birthdays, anniversaries, etc.)
• • A good password will always look like a series of random characters
• • If you think your password may have been compromised, change it now

WordPress Password Plugins

Password protecting your WordPress website or just specific areas for security issues?
We have listed a few of the best plugins available

Frontend Reset Password

The Frontend Reset Password plugin for WordPress enhances user experience by allowing password resets directly from the frontend of a website. It simplifies the process, reducing the need for users to navigate backend interfaces, thereby improving accessibility and convenience. With intuitive features like customizable reset forms and seamless integration, this plugin ensures a user-friendly approach to handling forgotten passwords. It's a valuable tool for any WordPress site looking to streamline user interactions and enhance security effortlessly.

Solid Security

The Better WP Security plugin for WordPress strengthens site security with a comprehensive suite of features. It fortifies websites against threats by implementing robust login security, monitoring file integrity, and enforcing strong passwords. With tools for malware scanning, firewall protection, and two-factor authentication, it offers a layered defense strategy. This plugin prioritizes user-friendly implementation without compromising on effectiveness, making it an essential choice for safeguarding WordPress sites from potential vulnerabilities and malicious attacks.

Password Protected

The Password Protected plugin for WordPress provides a simple yet effective way to restrict access to specific content with passwords. It seamlessly integrates into WordPress sites, offering customizable password forms and flexibility in protecting pages, posts, or entire sections. Ideal for managing private content or staging sites, it ensures only authorized users can view designated areas. This plugin maintains ease of use while bolstering site security, making it a valuable tool for controlling access to sensitive information or under-development content.

Password Policy Manager

The Password Policy Manager plugin for WordPress enhances site security by enforcing stringent password guidelines. It empowers administrators to define and enforce password complexity requirements such as length, character types, and expiration periods. This ensures robust protection against brute-force attacks and enhances overall site integrity. With customizable settings and detailed reporting, it promotes best practices for password management across user accounts. This plugin is essential for maintaining high security standards and safeguarding WordPress sites from potential vulnerabilities associated with weak passwords.

PHP Native Password Hash

The Password Hash plugin for WordPress enhances security by hashing user passwords for storage, significantly bolstering protection against data breaches. By converting passwords into irreversible cryptographic hashes, it ensures sensitive information remains secure even if accessed by unauthorized parties. This plugin seamlessly integrates into WordPress sites, providing a robust layer of defense against common password vulnerabilities. It's an essential tool for administrators looking to prioritize data security and safeguard user credentials effectively within their WordPress environment.

PPWP – Password Protect Pages

The Password Protect Page plugin for WordPress offers a straightforward solution to restrict access to specific pages with passwords. It enables site owners to secure content effortlessly, ensuring only authorized users can view designated pages. With customizable password forms and seamless integration, this plugin enhances privacy for sensitive information or exclusive content. Ideal for membership sites, private documents, or temporary content restrictions, it maintains simplicity while effectively managing access controls within the WordPress ecosystem.

Contact Form 7 Add Password field

The CF7 Add Password Field plugin for WordPress extends the functionality of Contact Form 7 by integrating a secure password field option. It allows website administrators to create forms with password input capabilities, ideal for applications requiring user authentication or access to protected content. With customizable settings for field labels and validation rules, this plugin enhances user interaction by facilitating secure data transmission directly through contact forms. It's a valuable tool for sites needing to collect and manage sensitive information securely and efficiently.

Passster – Password Protect Pages and Content

The Content Protector plugin for WordPress enhances site security by preventing unauthorized access to specific content. It allows administrators to protect posts, pages, or custom post types with password authentication or user role restrictions. With flexible configuration options, including customizable messages and styling, it seamlessly integrates into WordPress sites to safeguard sensitive information or premium content. This plugin is essential for managing access controls effectively, ensuring only designated users or subscribers can view protected content, thereby enhancing site privacy and user engagement.

Password Reset with Code for WordPress REST API

The BDV's Password Reset plugin for WordPress simplifies the password recovery process by allowing users to reset their passwords directly from the frontend of a website. It enhances user experience by eliminating the need to access the backend for password changes, thereby improving convenience and accessibility. With customizable reset forms and straightforward integration, this plugin ensures a seamless approach to handling forgotten passwords. It's an invaluable tool for any WordPress site looking to streamline user interactions and enhance security effortlessly.

Password Strength Settings for WooCommerce

The WC Password Strength Settings plugin for WordPress enhances security by enabling administrators to enforce strong password requirements on WooCommerce websites. It allows customization of password complexity criteria such as length, character types, and strength indicators during account registration and checkout processes. By promoting robust password practices, this plugin mitigates risks associated with weak credentials and strengthens overall site security. It's an essential tool for eCommerce sites aiming to protect customer data and maintain trust by prioritizing strong password policies effectively..

Summary

Creating strong and secure passwords is essential for protecting your online identity and personal information from cyber threats. By following these guidelines and adopting best practices for password security, you significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access to your accounts. Remember, the effort you invest in creating strong passwords today can safeguard your digital presence tomorrow. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and keep your passwords strong and secure!

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