Research data, especially sensitive data, should be protected from unauthorized access. Secure, meaning strong and unique, passwords that require significant time and computational power to decipher are a key component of this protection. Generally, the higher the complexity of the password, the more secure it is.

Tips for password creation:

• Use long passwords (at least 8 characters)
• Include uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters
• Avoid dictionary words
• Do not reuse identical or similar passwords
• Change word spelling by substituting characters with visually similar ones (e.g., „BESIDE“ becomes „I3€5iD€“)
• Use passphrases, possibly shortened or modified (e.g., „IHaveANewPassword“ becomes „IHave1nPa$$Word“)
• Store passwords securely and locked away
• Use password management software, such as KeePass
• Enable two-factor authenticationTwo-factor authentication (2FA) supplements password protection by requiring a one-time code, delivered via SMS, smartphone app, or hardware token. This method significantly enhances security, as access to the smartphone or similar device is also necessary in order to gain access to the protected data. Read More whenever possible