How secure are your passwords?

How secure are your passwords?

October is cyber awareness month we’re reminding you about the importance of password safety. 

Computer systems are commonly breached through password attacks. 

Using strong unique passwords is the most effective way to protect your accounts and information.

Our cyber security specialists recommend using at least three random words to make a password, which balances length and memorability.  

Good passwords:

You can see how long it takes to crack passwords of different lengths and complexity using this website: https://www.security.org/how-secure-is-my-password/. However, it is not advisable to put live valid passwords into password checking tools. 

On the dark web lists of stolen usernames and passwords are available from companies who have been hacked in the past.  

To check if your email features in these lists you can use https://haveibeenpwned.com/, which is a website that searches for details that have appeared in data breaches.

For further advice visit https://www.westyorkshire.police.uk/advice/online-crime-safety/online-safety-cybercrime/cybercrime/advice-businesses-families-and-individuals

If you think you may have been a victim of cyber crime or fraud, you should report it to Report Fraud or by calling 0300 123 2040.