Introduction

It is common sense to take steps to ensure that your research data are protected to prevent unauthorised access. A key aspect of data security is choosing suitably strong passwords. However, due to the increasing number of accounts, login details and passwords we need to manage on a day-to-day basis it can be easy to become careless and adopt bad practices when creating passwords.

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Tips for strong password

Managing passwords for less frequently used services is essential. Find a method that works for you to retrieve or decipher them when needed. Here are some suggestions for creating strong passwords:

• Opt for a combination of upper- and lower-case letters, numbers, and special characters.

• A strong password should resemble a random sequence of symbols, including non-alphabetic characters like @#$!%+-/:?_.

• Avoid using dictionary words.

• Memorize a few robust passwords for your most sensitive systems, preferably with 15 characters or more.

• Consider using passphrases, composed of at least four randomly chosen words, for exceptionally strong passwords.

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Common Mistakes Leading to Weak Passwords

Avoid the following mistakes when crafting passwords:

• Using your username or any form of it as a password.

• Incorporating easily guessable personal information such as birthdates, phone numbers, or addresses.

• Choosing simplistic passwords like single words or all digits.

• Using obvious digit substitutions in real words, such as 'p4ssword' or '5ecret.'

• Opting for passwords with fewer than eight characters.

• Employing characters from literature, films, or other public sources.

• Selecting passwords that are either too easy or too difficult to type.