NCERT, NTC Warn Users Against Poor Password Habits That Get Accounts Hacked

The National Cyber Emergency Response Team (NCERT) and National Telecommunication Corporation (NTC) have issued a warning to internet users regarding the dangers of reusing passwords across multiple online accounts. By using the same password for various services, individuals become vulnerable to hacking attacks. If one account is compromised due to weak password security, cybercriminals can exploit the same credentials to gain access to other accounts.

This practice of password reuse significantly increases the risk of unauthorized access to multiple services, without the need for guessing unique passwords for each account.

The NCERT and NTC emphasized several potential risks associated with password reuse. For instance, if a password shared between an email and a shopping account is compromised, personal and financial information could be exposed. Reusing a social media password for banking services could also put bank accounts at risk. Additionally, a compromised work password might provide unauthorized access to personal accounts.

The advisory warns that compromised passwords can lead to account takeover, identity theft, financial losses, and damage to privacy and reputation. Hackers who gain control of compromised accounts may misuse personal information or carry out unauthorized transactions, amplifying the potential consequences for affected users.

To mitigate these risks, the NCERT and NTC have advised users to create unique and strong passwords for each account, employ the use of a password manager, enable two-factor authentication, and change passwords regularly, especially for important accounts. Users have been reminded to keep their passwords private and promptly report any suspicions of a compromised password to their IT or security team.