Beech Tree News Network

The Password Game-How many passwords do you have to keep up with? How frequently do you change these passwords? Lots of organizations require mandatory password changes because it’s long been considered a “security best” practice aka it’s what’s “best for business”. 
When you change your password every few months, it limits how long the stolen password is useful to a stealthy attacker.  Big enterprises that force their workers to change their passwords, are they really doing anything? Basically, what you’re doing is putting more nonsensical words into your memory bank, or in my case, password book. 
As far as time between password changes, I’ve heard everywhere from 3-6 months.  I used to subscribe to the 3 month theory but was told to change that stance.  And sometimes, a website will forget my password and I’ll have to request a new one.  That’s probably for the best in the long run, but it’s aggravating at that present time. 
My g-mail account does that most.  Also, anytime my computer resets for updates, I have to change all of my passwords.  I use Twitter most on my phone, so I don’t usually have to mess with that password. 
My best friend changes her passwords every six months, usually.  I don’t have to change my Instagram password unless my phone just finished installing an update.  However, recently Instagram went down for a few hours.  They asked for my password but wouldn’t accept it.  Turns out, when they came back online, I didn’t need to change a thing.  So, in essence, I never had to do a thing.  It sounds to me like Instagram has their security on lockdown. 
I understand why passwords must be changed.  I don’t want my account hacked.  I know some friends who’ve had to apologize to all their friends because someone hacked them, posting things that said friend would never post.  That is when you must change your password.  Don’t wait until you’re hacked, though.  Abide by that 3-6 month rule.