Episode 13: Cybersecurity Myth #3 — “Long Passwords Are Enough to Protect Me”
Welcome to another episode of FamilyCyber.ie — where we share simple digital safety habits and online privacy tips for those of us who want to make life harder for the digital Voldemorts out there.
🟢 This episode is based on the original Spanish version of CiberseguridadParaFamilias.com. It’s been translated using AI so more people can access these tips in English.
We continue our special Cybersecurity Myths series.
In each short episode, we debunk a common myth to help you protect yourself better online.
This is Episode 13 and the third myth in our series.
❌ Myth #3: “Long passwords are enough to keep me safe”
Many people believe that if they create a long password like “abcdefghij123456,” they’re automatically safe.
However, this isn’t true. While length does help, a strong password needs more than just being long.
🔎 Why isn’t length alone enough?
If a long password is predictable (like “1234567890” or “abcdefghi”), attackers can easily guess it.
If a long password is reused across different accounts, a single data breach on one site can put all your accounts at risk.
If a long password doesn’t include a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols, it’s easier for automated tools to crack.
🎭 Real-life example
Imagine someone using “securepassword12345” because it’s long and easy to remember.
A hacker can guess this with a brute force attack since it follows a common and predictable pattern.
🔒 How to create a truly secure password
✔ Use a mix of upper and lower case letters, numbers, and symbols.
✔ Avoid common patterns (like “12345” or “qwerty”).
✔ Don’t include personal information (names, birthdays, or locations).
✔ Never reuse passwords across different accounts.
✔ Consider using a password manager to create and store unique, secure passwords.
📌 Example of a strong password
Instead of “myCat123,” try something like: m!4t0_Verde#5303.
It’s much harder to guess but can still be memorized using a mental image or phrase.
💡 Conclusion
A long password alone is not enough if it follows predictable patterns or is reused.
To protect yourself better:
✅ Create long, complex, and unique passwords.
✅ Use two-factor authentication (2FA) whenever possible.
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This is the third episode in our Cybersecurity Myths series — don’t miss the next one!
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📌 This has been another episode of FamilyCyber.ie — where we share simple digital safety habits and online privacy tips for those of us who want to make life harder for the digital Voldemorts out there.