Kaspersky Lab study unveils global password vulnerabilities, security tips
(MENAFN) According to a study conducted by cybersecurity firm Kaspersky Lab, approximately 193 million passwords worldwide have been compromised through hacking incidents, with half of these breaches occurring in less than a minute. The study highlights that a significant portion of the passwords analyzed were vulnerable to rapid hacking attempts, emphasizing the critical need for robust password security measures.
Maher Yamout, Senior Security Researcher at Kaspersky Global Research and Analysis Team, explained that most password breaches occur on the "dark web," where hackers deploy viruses or steal passwords from compromised or unsafe websites. These stolen credentials are subsequently traded or sold on illicit platforms within the dark web.
The study further underscored that while a quarter of the passwords analyzed were categorized as strong or "resistant," requiring sustained efforts to breach, the majority were found to be easily accessible to hackers. Yamout stressed the importance of choosing passwords that incorporate a mix of symbols, letters, and numbers, as well as opting for longer phrases exceeding 15 characters, such as lines of poetry or memorable quotes.
To enhance password security, Yamout recommended regularly changing passwords, especially for weaker ones, at intervals of no more than three months. For those opting for stronger, more complex passwords, utilizing secure password management applications was advised. These tools not only securely store passwords but also generate and suggest intricate passwords for various websites while allowing easy modification.
Moreover, Yamout advised against opening links from unfamiliar sources, which could potentially compromise passwords through phishing attacks. It was also emphasized to avoid using identical passwords across multiple applications and devices, promoting the use of biometric authentication methods like fingerprint or facial recognition for unlocking devices and applications.
In summary, the study underscores the pervasive threat of password hacking and the importance of adopting robust security practices to safeguard personal and sensitive information in an increasingly digital world.
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