IT Security on exitcode

The impact of data leaks

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

What happens if your account is hacked? - The impact of data leaks Link to heading

A data leak doesn’t just mean that someone else knows your password. The consequences can spread like a chain reaction. Often, they strike months or years later, when we have long forgotten the original event.

How does data get leaked? Link to heading

When a website’s database is hacked, the user data stored in it is leaked - email addresses, passwords, and possibly personal information. This data is usually:

Two-factor authentication - 2FA

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

What is two-factor authentication (2FA) and why is it important? Link to heading

Even if someone obtains your password, it should not be enough to gain access. Two-factor authentication provides exactly that - a second barrier that cannot be crossed without knowing the password.

What are the two factors? Link to heading

Authentication can be built from three possible components:

Password managers - how do they work?

Sat, 07 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Password managers - how do they work and why should you trust them? Link to heading

Previous posts have shown that every account needs a unique, strong password. But who can remember thirty different, random passwords? No one. That’s what password managers are for.

What is a password manager? Link to heading

A password manager is an encrypted storage device - like a safe where all your passwords are securely locked away. It can be opened with a single master password, and you don’t need to remember anything else.

Password reuse

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Why is it dangerous to use the same password everywhere? Link to heading

It’s easier to remember one password. That’s understandable. But if you use the same password for your banking app, your email, and a forum you haven’t visited in a long time, a single data breach is enough to compromise all your accounts.

What is credential stuffing? Link to heading

When a website is hacked, the leaked username-password pairs quickly end up on the dark web. Attackers use automated programs to try these lists on other sites - this is called credential stuffing.

Why Password123 Is Never Enough

Sat, 28 Feb 2026 19:50:39 +0000

Why “Password123” Is Not a Good Password Link to heading

Many people use simple passwords because they are easy to remember. That is understandable - but unfortunately it is a serious risk. In this article you will learn what happens behind the scenes, how to choose a strong password, and a method that makes strong passwords actually memorable.

How Are Passwords Cracked? Link to heading

Attackers do not need to guess your password. Instead, they use programs that automatically try millions of combinations per second. This method is called a brute force attack.