Still using your cat’s name followed by an “&” for your 401(k) account password? Sorry, but that’s just not enough to protect your life savings in 2019. Here’s a term you need to know on World Password Day: #LayerUp.
This refers to adding strong authentication to your important passwords to prevent identity theft and other cybercrimes.
Intel created World Password Day — the first Thursday of May (May 6) — to address the critical need for solid passwords. It’s simple, really. Most operating systems offer an easy way to create and store passwords. Apple’s “Keychain Access” is one example. You can also go online to generate passwords which are practically hacker-proof.
In other words, “e9UBct*35TwhT&p/’e{:y}” is the new “MisterWhiskers.”
Read more about this on our National Computer Security Day page.
World Password Day timeline
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) creates the computer password so that multiple people can use a shared computer system.
Public-key cryptography is created so two people can authenticate each other without exchanging a cryptographic key.
A study done by Morris and Thompson demonstrates that guessing passwords through personal information is easier than deciphering passwords.
Two-Factor Authentication emerges and is adopted.
How to Observe World Password Day
Take the #LayerUp pledge
You need a card and PIN number to get money out of the ATM — so wouldn't you want the same level of security for your online accounts? Learn about stronger authentication!
Host a password party
Friends don't let friends have lame passwords. Why not make a party of it? You can figure out password managers and the ins and outs of multi-factor authentication together.
Alert your friends
Let others know what goes into making a strong password. Share a stat about hacking and identity theft. Get people's attention; you may just save them a lot of headache (if not their bank accounts).
Why World Password Day is Important
More important than ever
So much of our information lives on the internet. Just think about your online banking accounts, bill payment sites, shopping sites, and the list goes on. Make sure the passwords are solid and diversified!
Easy to fix
You've heard about password managers and multi-factor authentication. Today is a great day to sit down and educate yourself. And with the new technology options out there, you can 'set it and forget it' for the future.
Lots of help out there
The days of writing passwords on stickies are long gone. There are a number of low-cost and free password managers that will still leave you plenty of time for all that online shopping.
Organizations from the tech industry can use Influencer Marketing campaigns to spread awareness around having strong passwords.
World Password Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | May 5 | Thursday |
| 2023 | May 4 | Thursday |
| 2024 | May 2 | Thursday |
| 2025 | May 1 | Thursday |
| 2026 | May 7 | Thursday |
| 2027 | May 6 | Thursday |