“Change Your Password Day” is supposed to make accounts more secure. However, regular, random password changes are not a good idea. They often lead to the use of weaker passwords . The Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) therefore advises against this practice and instead recommends more secure methods such as two-factor authentication or passkeys.
Why strong passwords alone are not enough long outdated
Passwords can fall into the wrong hands through data leaks or phishing attacks. Even a strong password can then no longer reliably protect against unauthorized access. This is where two-factor authentication comes into play: It acts like an additional lock. Anyone who wants to log into an account needs a second factor in addition to the password – such as a code from an authentication app. Even if criminals know the password, access remains blocked.
Passkeys: The future of account security long outdated
Dr. Markus Bieletzki, expert at Stiftung bc database india Warentest and member of the BSI’s Digital Consumer Protection Advisory Board, explains: “Passkeys are a secure alternative to passwords. Instead of entering a password, login is done via fingerprint, facial recognition, or PIN. This initiates a cryptographic process that leaves criminals with no point of attack. Without a password, there’s nothing that can be stolen in the event of a data breach or phishing attack – the account remains protected.”
What to do if a service does not offer modern security methods?
Many providers already support passkeys or two-factor authentication. If not, it may be worth looking for alternatives. Those who still use traditional passwords should choose strong ones and manage them securely – a password manager can help with this.
Email account as key to security
Maximilian Berndt, consumer protection expert at the BSI, advises starting with protecting your own email account. This is because passwords for other accounts can often be reset through these accounts. If control of your email account falls into the wrong hands, the consequences can be serious. Fraudsters could pose as trustworthy individuals and cause damage.
When should a password be changed?
If you suspect that a password has been how to develop a customer acquisition strategy that works for you disclosed in a data breach , you should change it immediately. Suspicious activities, such as unauthorized changes to account settings or emails sent that weren’t sent by you, are warning signs of possible unauthorized access. In such cases, the BSI offers an emergency plan with concrete steps.
Use February 1st wisely: Activate two-factor authentication or switch to passkeys
Anyone who has been using weak passwords list provider or is feeling insecure can use “Change Your Password Day” as an opportunity to switch to more secure methods. Instead of just changing your password, it’s more effective to enable two-factor . Authentication or switch to passkeys – for a truly secure user account!