How to create a strong password that effectively protects every account and device

In a world full of online services, mobile apps and the data tied to them, the password has become one of the most important elements of our privacy. Cybercriminals use automated tools that can test millions of combinations in a short time, analyze language patterns, leverage leaked data and predict typical user behavior. That’s why short passwords, simple words or dates of birth don’t effectively protect any account — they’re too predictable and easy to crack using bruteforce or dictionary attacks. A strong password must therefore be based on length, diversity and the lack of any connection to the user. Only then does it truly make access to your data harder, regardless of whether you sign in to your email inbox, store account, work tool or device panel.

Core principles of a secure password:

• length of at least 12–16 characters,

• no personal data or repetitive patterns,

• full uniqueness for every single account,

• no simple tweaks like “123”, “!”, “2024”,

• avoiding dictionary words and names.

Techniques for building attack-resistant passwords and practical tips

The most effective and at the same time convenient way to generate strong passwords is to use so-called passphrases — several words combined into a sentence, preferably absurd and detached from everyday associations. Such a password is long, hard to crack and easy to remember, especially when you enrich it with numbers and symbols placed in spots that are natural for you to recall. It is also crucial to mix character types, because each additional variation significantly increases the number of combinations an attacker would have to guess. However, the structure of the password should be logical for the user, not completely random — that way you don’t have to write it down.

How to create passwords that are hard to crack:

• use short, abstract sentences or associations,

• combine letters, numbers and symbols in a memorable way,

• avoid names, places, dates, favourite bands,

• use your own abbreviations, metaphors and rarely used words,

• use a password manager so every account has a unique password,

• react to data breach alerts and update passwords regularly.

Example:
“SquirrelsPreferSilence!229AtNight” – long, abstract, hard to predict.

Extra protection layers and habits that decide how effective a password is

A strong password is the foundation, but not the only form of protection. Equally important are everyday habits and the way you handle your devices. Typing passwords on public computers, saving them in notes or leaving a device without a lock are small mistakes that can lead to serious consequences. It’s worth regularly reviewing your login history, avoiding open Wi-Fi networks and staying alert to suspicious messages and prompts.

Key actions that significantly improve security:

• don’t write passwords on paper, in photo galleries or basic notes apps,

• lock devices with a code, PIN or biometrics,

• take care of encryption on your smartphone and laptop,

• avoid using public Wi-Fi to log into your bank or email,

• review login alerts and investigate suspicious activity.

Two-factor, biometric authentication and rules for creating PINs

A crucial element that boosts the strength of any password is two-factor authentication (2FA). Even if someone learns your password, they still won’t be able to log in without the second verification step. This can be an SMS, an app that generates codes, a push notification or a physical security key. Each of these options makes account takeover much harder and in many cases practically prevents unauthorized access. Biometrics is just as important — a fingerprint or face scan lets you secure your device without typing a password in public places. It’s also worth taking care of your PIN, as it often acts as a second line of defense. A PIN should be just as strong as a password — simple sequences such as “1111”, “2580”, “0000”, “1234” must never be used.

What gives the biggest boost to your security:

• turning on 2FA in every service, even the rarely used ones,

• using authenticator apps instead of relying only on SMS codes,

• using biometrics as an extra, quick lock method,

• creating PINs made of at least 6 digits,

• avoiding PINs based on dates, patterns or simple sequences,

• using double protection methods: e.g. password + fingerprint, PIN + SMS, password + U2F key.

Using several safeguards at once almost completely eliminates the risk of account takeover — even if one of them is broken or exposed.