Passwords: Too Tough to Crack: Step 5 and The Wrap Up.

For Part 1 of this series, go here.
For Part 2, go here.

Step 5: Use two factor verification if you can. Two factor verification is a method of protecting your accounts like passwords. But make no mistake, two factor verification is like passwords on steroids. And this method has become more popular in recent years due to the fact that everybody seems to be hacking everything. Two factor verification involves a password as well as another piece of info to prove that you are who you say you are. The second factor can be one of many things such as a special pin number or a code sent to your cell phone.

Two factor verification is a good solution, but a hindrance for some. Because of one main reason: This method is still subject to man in the middle attacks where an attacker can get the text messages containing the code. This is unlikely, but it is a possibility.

BONUS STEP 6: Protect yourself from malware now and in the future. I know I said that Step 5 would be the last one, but this is in a way, more important then any of the other steps, so I really don't think that's cheating. Taking the time to implment all the 5 steps will not really matter if your computer is infected with malware that targets passwords. Unfortunately, today's malware can log keystrokes, take screenshots of everything you click, etc. And no password is too tough to crack for a keylogger, it does not matter how long and complex you make it.

Bottom Line: Help yourself by remaining secure, and that includes keeping your passwords secure. Today, passwords safeguard much of our private lives. Take good care of your passwords and when that next security breach happens (and it will) they will take good care of you.

Thanks for reading this series, I hope you enjoyed reading it as much as I did writing it. Be sure to comment if you want to say something or you have a question.

Stay safe my friends.