Why Passwords Persist and How to Secure Your Accounts in 2025

As of 2025, passwords remain the dominant method for securing online accounts and devices, despite widespread frustration from users and cybersecurity experts. Passwords are notoriously difficult to remember and vulnerable to cracking, especially with the rise of artificial intelligence tools that make guessing or stealing them easier for cybercriminals.

New technologies such as passkeys and password managers offer promising alternatives that can reduce reliance on traditional passwords. Passkeys provide a more seamless user experience and eliminate risks associated with weak, reused, or compromised passwords, as well as phishing attacks. However, adoption remains slow due to comfort with existing password systems and the ease of implementation.

World Password Day, celebrated on May 1, serves as a reminder to evaluate and improve password security. Until passkeys become standard, users should focus on creating strong, unique passwords for every account. Experts recommend passwords that are at least 16 characters long, using random sequences or passphrases composed of unrelated words, avoiding personal information, and steering clear of common substitutions or clichés.

Password managers are invaluable tools that securely store complex passwords, requiring users to remember only one master password. Contrary to concerns about centralizing credentials, these managers use robust encryption and security measures to protect stored data. Additionally, many password managers can detect and block phishing attempts by refusing to autofill credentials on spoofed websites.

Experts also emphasize the importance of two-factor authentication (2FA) as a critical layer of defense. 2FA requires a second form of verification, such as a biometric scan, security key, or authentication app code, significantly reducing the risk of unauthorized access even if a password is compromised. However, users should avoid SMS-based 2FA due to vulnerabilities like SIM swapping.

Additional best practices include logging out of shared devices, promptly changing passwords when compromise is suspected, and limiting personal information shared on social media to reduce the risk of targeted attacks. These combined strategies help mitigate the growing threats posed by automated cyberattacks and AI-driven hacking tools.

While the transition away from passwords toward passkeys and other advanced authentication methods will take time, adopting strong password hygiene and leveraging password managers and 2FA today can significantly enhance security. Organizations and individuals alike must prioritize these measures to protect sensitive data and maintain trust in an increasingly digital world.