Use Emoticons in Passwords
Passwords are typically made up of letters, numbers and symbols. However, emoticons can also be used to strengthen them. Even adding a single emoticon can significantly increase password complexity, as attackers rarely consider them.
Not all systems support emoticons, but you can achieve a similar effect by using keyboard characters such as colons (:), semicolons (;) or brackets to create more complex combinations.
Use a Mix of Uppercase and Lowercase Letters
Short passwords, even if they appear complex, can often be cracked using specialised tools. For example, a password such as ‘H7%e*}’ or a simple word like ‘fejerverkas123’ may not be as secure as it seems.
However, the way a password is structured makes a difference. Combining uppercase and lowercase letters increases complexity. For instance, ‘labas123’ can be cracked quickly, while ‘Labas123’ takes longer, and ‘lABaS1DU3’ is significantly more secure.
Write a Password with Mistakes
Attackers often use dictionary-based tools to crack passwords. These tools can quickly test thousands of words, meaning even uncommon words can be discovered in seconds.
To reduce this risk, introduce intentional variations. For example, modify words by changing letters, replacing characters or rearranging them. A simple word like ‘Apple’ could become ‘Appel’ or be further transformed into a more complex variation.
Encode Logical Phrases
Very complex passwords without any logic are difficult to remember, which often leads people to write them down. This creates additional security risks.
Instead, use a phrase that is meaningful to you but not easy to guess. Avoid using personal information such as your name, surname, company name or location, as these are commonly tested by attackers.
A better approach is to create a phrase and modify it with symbols and substitutions. For example, ‘Mėgstu cepelinus’ could become ‘M3GstUZ3P3LinuZ’.
Choose Two-Factor Authentication For Your Password
Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security. It is widely used in online banking and many digital services. Typically, it involves receiving a code on your phone or through an app to confirm your identity.
Even if a password is compromised, 2FA significantly reduces the risk of unauthorised access.
Be Careful Online
Avoid logging into personal or business accounts on devices that do not belong to you. If it is unavoidable, do not save login or payment details. Always log out after use and clear your browsing data.
Be cautious when using public Wi-Fi, especially for sensitive activities such as online banking. Consider using a virtual private network (VPN) for additional protection.
If your account is compromised, remain calm. In most cases, access can be restored with the help of the service provider, especially if you can verify your identity.
Final Thoughts
Following these tips can help you create stronger passwords and reduce security risks. If you are looking to improve information security across your organisation, the Baltic Amadeus team can help you implement effective practices and solutions. Reach out to our team.
