In an age where cyber threats are increasingly sophisticated, password security has never been more critical. Traditional password guidelines, which often encouraged complex combinations of letters, numbers, and symbols, are now evolving. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has made a compelling case for using three-word passwords as a robust security measure. In this blog post, we’ll explore why three-word passwords are recommended and how they can enhance your online security.
What Are Three-Word Passwords?
Three-word passwords are exactly what they sound like: a combination of three unrelated words strung together to create a passphrase. For example, "sunshine-table-lamp" or "apple-horse-guitar" would be considered strong three-word passwords. The idea is to create a password that is both easy to remember and difficult for attackers to guess.
Why Are Three-Word Passwords Recommended?
- Enhanced Memorability:
One of the primary benefits of three-word passwords is that they are easier to remember than complex strings of random characters. This reduces the likelihood that users will resort to writing down their passwords or reusing them across multiple accounts—both practices that can lead to security breaches. - Increased Complexity:
While three-word passwords may seem simple, they provide a surprising level of complexity. The number of possible combinations increases dramatically when you use three words. For instance, if you choose from a pool of 1,000 words, the total number of possible combinations would be over a billion (1,000 × 1,000 × 1,000). This makes it much harder for attackers to crack your password using brute-force methods. - Resistance to Common Attacks:
Three-word passwords are less susceptible to common password attacks, such as dictionary attacks, where attackers use lists of common words and phrases. Since the words are typically unrelated, it becomes challenging for attackers to guess the combination even if they have a list of commonly used words.
How to Create a Strong Three-Word Password
- Choose Unrelated Words:
Select three words that have no apparent connection. This unpredictability adds to the strength of your password. - Consider Length:
Aim for a total length of at least 12-15 characters. Longer passwords are generally more secure, so don't hesitate to use longer words or even phrases if you find them easier to remember. - Use a Password Manager:
If you're concerned about remembering multiple three-word passwords for different accounts, consider using a password manager. These tools can generate strong passwords and store them securely. - Add Variation:
You can enhance your three-word password by adding a special character or number in between or at the end (e.g., "sunshine#table2lamp"). However, make sure the password remains memorable.
As cyber threats continue to evolve, so must our approaches to password security. The NCSC's endorsement of three-word passwords represents a significant shift toward a more user-friendly and effective password strategy. By utilizing three-word combinations, you can create memorable, complex, and highly secure passwords that significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access to your accounts.
Adopting three-word passwords is a simple yet effective step toward enhancing your online security.
We have our very own three word password generator which you can find here.
If you need any help with ensuring you have a strong password policy which doesn't cause users to forget their passwords, then get in touch today and we can help.