As we recognise National Password Day on 1st May 2025, it’s a timely reminder for individuals and organisations across the UK to take a fresh look at how we create and manage passwords. While Cyber Security tools evolve, passwords remain a fundamental part of digital security …and they’re often the weakest link.
The good news? Improving password hygiene doesn’t require expert-level knowledge. Whether you’re managing a personal Netflix account or overseeing access to business-critical systems, a few well-informed changes can dramatically reduce your risk of being compromised.
Why Passwords Still Matter
Despite advances in biometrics and passwordless logins, traditional passwords are still widely used and widely targeted. Cyber criminals exploit predictable human behaviour, such as reusing passwords or relying on easy-to-guess phrases. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) continues to see examples where poor password practices lead directly to data breaches.
In 2023 alone, billions of credentials were exposed globally through phishing scams and compromised services. Once a password is leaked, attackers will often use it to try accessing other platforms—a method known as credential stuffing.
How to Create a Strong Password That’s Easy to Remember
Use Three Random Words
The NCSC’s flagship advice remains as relevant as ever: use three random words. This method creates a strong yet memorable password by combining unrelated words; like crayon-lemon-river. Unlike complex strings with special characters, these are easier to recall but still hard to crack.
“Length and unpredictability are more important than complexity.” – National Cyber Security Centre (2024)
Avoid Personal Information
Don’t use names, birthdays, favourite football teams, or anything that can be found on social media. These are easily exploited by attackers using social engineering or publicly available information.
Never Reuse Passwords
Using the same password across multiple accounts significantly increases your risk. If one account is breached, every other account with that password becomes vulnerable. Always use a unique password for every login.
Managing Multiple Passwords: Tools That Make It Easy
Use a Password Manager
A password manager securely stores your passwords and can generate complex ones on your behalf. It also saves you from having to remember dozens of logins. Both free and paid options are available, including open-source tools and enterprise-grade solutions.
Look for options that:
- Are encrypted end-to-end.
- Offer automatic password generation.
- Sync across your devices.
- Support biometric or 2FA/MFA login.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) or Multi-Factor (MFA)
Two-Factor or Multi-Factor Authentication adds a second layer of security beyond your password; typically via a code sent to your phone or generated in an app. Where available, enable 2FA/MFA, especially on:
- Email accounts.
- Banking apps.
- Social media.
- Cloud storage platforms.
Your Email Password Deserves Special Attention
Your email is the gateway to everything else online; from password resets to financial data. This makes it the most important account to protect. At minimum:
- Use a strong, unique password for email.
- Enable 2FA/MFA.
- Regularly monitor account activity for suspicious access.
Rethinking Password Expiry Policies
Historically, users were told to change passwords regularly. The NCSC now advises against forced password expiry unless there’s evidence of compromise. Repeated changes can lead to weaker passwords or poor habits like writing them down.
Instead, focus on:
- Strong, memorable passwords.
- Changing them only when there’s a known or suspected breach.
- Monitoring your accounts for unusual activity.
Everyday Tips for Better Password Hygiene
- Don’t share passwords, even with colleagues or friends. Use delegated access features where needed.
- Watch out for phishing emails and suspicious links. No password is safe if it’s handed over to an attacker.
- Enable account alerts to notify you of logins from unfamiliar locations or devices.
Resources for UK Users
- NCSC Password Guidance
- Cyber Aware Campaign – Secure Your Accounts
- East Midlands Cyber Resilience Centre (EMCRC) – Create and Manage Secure Passwords
These resources offer actionable, jargon-free advice tailored to both individuals and businesses in the UK.
Conclusion
Passwords aren’t going away just yet; but poor habits can. This National Password Day, take 10 minutes to review your current setup, switch to three random words, install a password manager, enable 2FA/MFA and encourage your colleagues or family members to do the same.
Small steps make a big difference when it comes to protecting your digital world.
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