Replacing Passwords with Passphrases

Replacing Passwords with Passphrases

Replacing passwords with passphrases is a good way to increase the security of your accounts, as passphrases are longer and more complex than typical passwords. Here are some steps to follow:

  1. Choose a long phrase: A passphrase is a sequence of words that you can remember easily. You can choose a phrase that has meaning to you, but it should be at least 12 characters long. Longer phrases are even better.
  2. Mix it up: You should include uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols to make your passphrase even stronger. For example, instead of using “The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog,” you can use “Th3qu!ckBr0wnF0xJump$0v3rTh3L@zyD0g”.
  3. Use different passphrases for different accounts: You should use a different passphrase for each of your accounts. This way, if one of your accounts is compromised, your other accounts will still be safe.
  4. Don’t use common phrases: You should avoid using common phrases that are easy to guess or are widely used. For example, “IloveYou” or “password” are not good passphrases.
  5. Keep your passphrase secret: You should never share your passphrase with anyone, and you should avoid writing it down. If you need to write it down, keep it in a secure place, like a safe or a password manager.

By following these steps, you can create strong and secure passphrases to protect your accounts. Remember, it’s important to choose passphrases that are easy to remember but hard to guess.

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About the Author

Dustin Decker (GFACT, GISF, GSEC, GCIH, GPYC, GCIA, GCWN)


Meet Dustin Decker, an accomplished information security research analyst with a wealth of expertise in daily cyber defense, incident response, intrusion detection, and network forensics. With a journey in Information Security dating back to 1999, Dustin earned his first bachelor’s degree in computer information systems from DeVry University in 2001.

But Dustin is not just about the past – he’s at the forefront of cutting-edge technology. He’s passionate about automating “all the things” using Python, PowerShell, and embracing solid DevSecOps principles. Beyond his individual achievements, Dustin’s excellence has been recognized, leading to his recent invitation to the prestigious SANS GIAC Advisory Board.

In a world where cybersecurity is paramount, Dustin Decker stands out as a dedicated professional, blending years of experience with a commitment to staying ahead in the rapidly evolving landscape.