New Year, New Security!

Cybersecurity is the practice of protecting systems networks and programs from digital attack according to Cyber, Infrastructure, Security Agency (CISA). Passwords, protection from cyberthreats like malware, phishing scams and data theft are the most common type of security.

According to most sources, Key Points to a password are length, variety, uniqueness, avoid personal information, multi-factor authentication (MFA), and password management.

Change every 90 days and the Best Practices are:

1. At least 12 characters,

2. Unique for each account,

3. Mix of case lettering,

4. Numbers,

5. Symbols,

6. NEVER SHARE,

7. Multi-factor authentication.

In an era where artificial intelligence (AI) is advancing at a staggering pace, cybersecurity experts are sounding the alarm: traditional passwords are no longer sufficient to protect sensitive information. MFA has emerged as the best option for safeguarding digital assets, and here's why.

According to a recent discussion on evolving cybersecurity threats, Earl Bauer, Computer Operations Specialist emphasized the critical importance of MFA, "Multi-factored passwords are the best option." Despite seeming like the multiple steps will be more work, Bauer explains, "AI is taking over and it doesn't take a skilled hacker to infiltrate because the AI is so advanced already. It's easy for the AI to crack that first password. The systems will think it's you. It'll be a red flag if that second wall gets breached." It is all about outsmarting the hackers trying to outsmart you and being ahead of the game.

MFA provides an additional layer of defense by requiring more than one method of verification, such as a password combined with a fingerprint scan, a mobile authentication app, or a one-time code sent to a trusted device.

This layered approach ensures that even if a hacker gains access to a password, they must bypass an additional barrier to fully compromise the system. It's this "second wall" that cybersecurity experts believe will be the key to staying ahead of increasingly sophisticated AI threats.

With AI rapidly advancing, organizations and individuals must adopt proactive strategies to protect themselves. Multi-factor authentication isn't just an inconvenience; it's a necessity in the digital age.

As the digital landscape evolves, so do the threats. By implementing MFA and staying informed about emerging cybersecurity trends, individuals and businesses can safeguard their data against the growing power of AI-assisted cyberattacks.