Ethical Hacking Essentials Practice Test

Which of the following is the best practice to be followed to increase password security?

1. Avoid using the same password for different accounts

2. Using easily memorable passwords

3. Sharing passwords with trusted colleagues

4. Changing passwords only once a year

The correct answer is: Avoid using the same password for different accounts

Using different passwords for various accounts is a fundamental best practice for enhancing password security. This approach minimizes the risk of multiple accounts being compromised if one password is leaked or stolen. If you use the same password across multiple sites and one of those sites experiences a data breach, all accounts associated with that password become vulnerable. By avoiding password reuse, users can effectively create a barrier; even if an attacker gains access to one account, they cannot easily access others. In contrast, memorability and convenience can often lead to weaker password choices, while sharing passwords, even with trusted colleagues, increases the risk of exposure. Lastly, changing passwords infrequently, such as once a year, does not adequately protect against potential breaches, as regular and timely updates are recommended to mitigate risks. This principle reinforces the importance of maintaining unique passwords for different accounts as a proactive measure in password security.