New research from Hive Systems finds any 8-character password can be cracked in less than an hour
RICHMOND, Va. – In its most recent research in password security, Hive Systems found that any 8-character password can be cracked in less than an hour through brute force. Further, any password containing less than seven characters can be cracked instantly. These are just two major findings from extensive research conducted by the cybersecurity firm.
“While passwords aren’t the only method to keep your information safe” said Alex Nette, CEO and founder of Hive Systems. “a strong and unique password is the best way to stay safe online.”
The research also found that advances in technology over the past two years have cut the amount of time it takes to crack a password through brute force exponentially. In 2020, a complex eight-character password could be cracked in eight hours – a number that has now decreased to less than an hour. The rise in affordable cloud computing has contributed to this trend.
The use of a password manager for creating and storing passwords significantly increases the safety and security of passwords. In fact, a 12-character password created by a reputable password manager could take up to 3000 years to crack through brute force the research found.
“Password best practices have been well documented, but as technology improves, passwords become less secure,” said Corey Neskey, VP of Quantitative Risk at Hive Systems. “The safest option for consumers is to use a password manager to create and store all of your passwords. Never use a password twice, and always be aware of sites that have had a password breach. If you reuse passwords, your information can be stolen instantaneously. ”
The table of results – shared thousands of times across Twitter, Reddit, and other social media platforms – is available for download here.
About Hive Systems
Hive Systems provides smarter cybersecurity solutions with our trusted experts. Leveraging our collective experience, we promote a true partnership by understanding what makes your organization unique to help evaluate your cybersecurity strengths and vulnerabilities. Together, we’ll develop a risk reduction strategy that best utilizes your existing investments, including both technology and people, to reduce your risk anywhere - so you can keep your information secure everywhere. Through Hive Helps, we offer pro bono consulting services to qualified non-profit organizations and communities to ensure that limited resources don’t stand in the way of social progress.
