Learn to create strong, unique passwords and use password managers effectively to protect your accounts.
Why Passwords Still Matter
Despite predictions that passwords would become obsolete, they remain the primary authentication method for most accounts. Understanding password security is critical because weak passwords are the #1 cause of account compromises.
**The Reality of Password Attacks:**
- **Credential Stuffing:** 80% of breaches involve stolen or weak passwords
- **Dictionary Attacks:** Computers can try billions of password combinations per second
- **Social Engineering:** Attackers trick users into revealing passwords
- **Data Breaches:** Millions of passwords are leaked online every year
**Common Password Mistakes:**
❌ Using the same password across multiple sites (password reuse)
❌ Using personal information (names, birthdates, pet names)
❌ Creating short passwords with basic complexity (e.g., "Password123!")
❌ Writing passwords on sticky notes or unencrypted files
❌ Sharing passwords via email, text, or verbally
❌ Using common patterns (qwerty, 123456, password)
**The Password Paradox:**
We need passwords that are:
- Strong (long, random, complex)
- Unique (different for every account)
- Memorable (we can recall them when needed)
These requirements conflict with human memory limits. That's why password managers are essential - they solve the paradox by remembering everything for you.
