Choosing Secure Passwords or Why you shouldn't use the word "password" as a Password

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Choosing Secure Passwords
or... Why you Shouldn't use the word "password" as a Password

Resources - Tutorials and Articles

by Tad Coffin
MediaTitan.com

In short, you shouldn't use the word password or any other "weak" password that could easily be guessed, as there are scripts that will make random attempts to log on to your computer, secret web site or what ever it may be.

One such script is a virus:

w32.Randex.F

This worm virus spreads itself to Windows computers by guessing its administrator password as one of the following:

12345
password
computer

If one of these passwords is valid, the virus is able to access your computer and do bad things. If the script doesn't authenticate, it simply creates another random IP address and tries to authenticate there.

There are also scripts that access web servers with a similar pattern. Real damage can be done if there is credit card information or personal data on the server. Also, a compromised server could be used to serve illegal or otherwise destructive information to users.

On your personal computer, make sure to run virus scans every so often. There are free Virus scans available online, such as: http://housecall.trendmicro.com.

Taking the extra step to use a password with a variety of numbers, letters and cases - like:

Wq23j14m

can save you a lot of trouble in the longrun, as scripts will not be able to crack them so easily.

Also, although it is convenient to use the same password for all of your memberships and logins, it is not a good idea. If one password is cracked by an unscrupulous person, you may be giving them access to your whole life.

In short, just take a moment to choose secure passwords when the time comes. If you are currently using insecure passwords, change them.

It should also be noted that systems running Windows seem to be more at risk to viruses than Macs or PCs on other operating systems.

If you have further questions or would like Media Titan to assist you with any design, marketing or programming, please contact us - webmaster@mediatitan.com.