Cybersecurity Council Identifies 5 Common Password Errors

In today’s digital age, passwords play a crucial role in protecting our sensitive information online. However, they also serve as a gateway for cybercriminals to exploit and gain unauthorized access to our accounts. Cybersecurity experts have highlighted that password hacking and exploitation are among the most common vulnerabilities faced by end users, leading to significant financial losses and severe breaches of digital privacy.

To address this growing concern, the UAE Cybersecurity Council recently launched an awareness campaign aimed at educating government agencies, private institutions, and the general public on the importance of password security. The campaign, titled “The National Campaign for Cybersecurity: A Year of Digital Awareness and Education,” identified five common password mistakes that put user accounts at risk:

1. Using the same password for multiple accounts
2. Not changing passwords regularly
3. Including easily guessable information in passwords
4. Sharing passwords with others
5. Storing passwords insecurely

The council emphasized that these errors in password management can expose users to hacking and exploitation, highlighting the need for caution to avoid phishing and electronic fraud. Kaspersky, a leading cybersecurity company, also underscored the importance of strong, unique passwords to protect against sophisticated attacks. In 2023 alone, there were over 32 million attempts to steal passwords, emphasizing the need for enhanced password security measures.

In addition to promoting strong password practices, the UAE Digital Government recommended the use of digital identity solutions such as the UAE Pass application, which provides a secure way to access services without the need for multiple passwords. This app enables digital document signing and verification, streamlining the authentication process for users.

Despite the emphasis on password security, Abu Dhabi Police issued a warning against sharing confidential information such as online banking passwords, ATM PINs, and CCV numbers. Fraudsters often exploit the names of national institutions to deceive victims through fraudulent messages or social media scams. To combat cyber fraud, the public is urged to report any suspicious activities to the “Aman” service, available 24/7 via phone, text, email, or the Abu Dhabi Police smart app.

To create a strong password, Kaspersky recommends using at least 8 characters (preferably longer) with a mix of upper and lower case letters, numbers, and special symbols. It is essential to make passwords memorable, unique for each service, and avoid using easily guessable information. Additionally, cybersecurity lawyer Dr. Fatima Al-Neyadi advises that passwords should be long and unique for each site to prevent hackers from accessing multiple accounts with the same credentials.

In conclusion, safeguarding our digital identities and sensitive information requires a proactive approach to password security. By following best practices and staying vigilant against cyber threats, individuals can protect themselves from potential financial losses and privacy breaches in the digital realm.