Compromised passwords are responsible for over 80% of all data breaches. Yet the average person reuses the same password across 14 different accounts. This guide shows you how to fix that permanently.
Why Your Passwords Are Probably Weak
Hackers don't typically sit there guessing your password. They use three main attack methods: credential stuffing (trying leaked username/password pairs from previous breaches), brute force (automated guessing of common passwords), and dictionary attacks (trying words, names, and common substitutions).
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What Makes a Strong Password
Password Managers
A password manager is the single most impactful security upgrade you can make. It generates, stores, and auto-fills unique random passwords for every site — you only need to remember one master password.
Recommended options: Bitwarden (free, open source, excellent) — Recommended for most people. 1Password — excellent family sharing features. Dashlane — includes dark web monitoring. All three are regularly independently audited.
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
2FA adds a second verification step when logging in — even if someone has your password, they can't access your account without the second factor. Enable it on every account that supports it.
2FA Methods, Ranked by Security
Defending Against Credential Stuffing
Backup Codes
When you set up 2FA, always save the backup codes provided. Store them offline — printed on paper and kept in a secure physical location. These codes are your lifeline if you lose access to your authenticator app.