In theory, it is possible to hack a password in just a few seconds. But in practice, hackers prefer to use slightly more complex methods. We explain why.
You probably know that it’s not really a good idea to use a simple password like 12345. And… it’s true! However, we should perhaps not exaggerate the link between password length and security, and this for good reason: it has been a long time since hackers used these methods to hack an account.
In theory, the reason why password length and complexity is a guarantee of security is that in the event of a brute force attack (i.e., testing all existing combinations), the passwords Shortest passes are cracked in just a few seconds. With much more complex passwords, the hack duration is longer. But in practice, brute force hacking is quite rare. Mostly, it will be acquaintances who will try to “hack” your accounts by trying to guess your passwords. Hackers use other techniques and for obvious reasons. Quite simply because it is often impossible for a hacker to carry out a brute force attack: in general, sites limit the number of possible connections in a limited time (usually three tries) in order to prevent hacking of your data by malicious individuals. And these days, two-factor authentication adds yet another layer of security – making a brute force hack virtually impossible.
So, does this mean that you no longer risk anything? Of course not ! The biggest danger to your data these days comes from two big threats. One of them is phishing, this type of scam which generally attempts to steal your personal information by tricking you into clicking on a link (often, by means of an e-mail pretending to be an organization of confidence).
The other, over which you have little influence, is the leak of databases containing your passwords. For this reason, it is important to stay informed about potential security breaches within companies and websites. To find out if your identifier is compromised, you can find out on the Have I Been Pwned site, which will inform you about all the data that may have leaked about you from your email address (so remember to check all your addresses). If one of your passwords is compromised, we advise you not only to change it on the application or service that concerns it, but also to change any other identical password that you use elsewhere…
We still advise you to avoid “basic” passwords like 12345, but as long as you show a little originality, it’s not the length of your identifier that should put you in danger. Above all, avoid using the same password constantly, and exercise caution when faced with suspicious links or emails. Finally, at the slightest suspicion, do not hesitate to change it…
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