Earlier this week, media outlets were abuzz with headlines claiming ‘one of the largest data breaches in history’, referring to the exposure of nearly 16bn (billion) or 1,600 crore login credentials, including usernames and passwords. Although this is not the result of a single, recent breach, the massive compilation stems from years of data leaks caused by infostealer malware, credential stuffing attacks, phishing scams, and widespread security lapses across various platforms, including major companies like Google, Apple, and Facebook.
Still, the mere mention of “16 billion passwords leaked online” is enough to trigger genuine concern among users everywhere. Adding to the alarm, some desi ‘news’ channels have gone into overdrive — sensationalising the development, urging viewers to change their passwords immediately and suggesting that failing to do so might somehow spark the next World War!
These credentials are typically harvested by a type of malware known as infostealers. Once they infect a device — often through fake software downloads, phishing emails, or malicious links — they silently search for saved login details stored in web browsers, email clients, and applications. This can include anything from your Gmail or JioHotstar password to sensitive corporate virtual private network (VPN) credentials. The stolen data is compiled into files known as 'logs', which are then sold — or sometimes even shared for free — on underground forums, Telegram groups, and dark web marketplaces.
Nevertheless, creating strong, secure passwords for every online account remains a frustrating task for most people. From banking apps and shopping sites to social media platforms, users are constantly asked to craft complex, unique combinations that are difficult to guess, yet somehow easy to remember. For the average person managing dozens of logins, it is an overwhelming and often confusing challenge. And in today’s cyber threat landscape, the risks have never been greater.
So, what can you do when you are caught in this so-called password jungle, where every login feels like a trap and every step could lead to a breach?
Smart Tips to Create Strong Yet Usable Passwords
Many users struggle to balance password strength with memorability. The good news? You don't need to be a cybersecurity expert to create robust passwords you can actually remember. Here's how you can simplify the process without compromising on safety:
1. Use a passphrase, not just a password
Ditch the single-word strategy with random characters. Instead, create a short, memorable sentence that’s meaningful to you but difficult for others to guess.
For example:
Time2WalkMyDogAt7!
IceCream4DinnerIsBest!
These phrases are longer, more secure, and far easier to remember than something like P@55w0rd!
2. Add a unique twist for each account
You can reuse the same base passphrase across platforms by slightly modifying it for each one.
For example:
Gmail: Time2WalkMyDogAt7!GM
Netflix: Time2WalkMyDogAt7!NF
Amazon: Time2WalkMyDogAt7!AMZ
This gives each password a unique edge while keeping it easy to recall.
3. Make use of regional languages
In the Indian context, try using phrases from your native language or pop culture references that are personal to you but hard to crack.
Example: Take the line “Katappa ne Bahubali ko kyun mara”
Use the first letter of each word: KnBkkm
Then add numbers and symbols to make it stronger: #K1n2B3k4k5m!
Apply the same account-specific tweak method:
Gmail: #K1n2B3k4k5m!Gm
Netflix: #K1n2B3k4k5m!Nf
Amazon: #K1n2B3k4k5m!Amz
The result? A password system that is easy for you to remember but incredibly hard for anyone else to crack.
4. Prioritise your strongest passwords
Use your most complex and unique passwords for critical accounts, such as banking, personal email, and social media. For low-risk services like newsletters or local forums, memorable but simpler passphrases are okay.
5. Avoid predictable elements
Steer clear of using your name, date of birth, mobile number, or any personal information that can be guessed or found online.
6. Use a password manager for heavy lifting
Managing dozens of strong, unique passwords? Let a trusted password manager handle it. These tools generate ultra-secure passwords and store them in an encrypted vault. Many also alert you to exposed credentials and work seamlessly across devices.
7. Never reuse passwords for critical accounts
Using the same password for multiple important accounts is a recipe for disaster. If one gets compromised, the rest become easy targets. Even if you reuse a base passphrase, always make sure each login has a unique variation.
Strengthen Your Digital Defences Beyond Just Passwords
Relying on memory or letting your browser store passwords might feel convenient, but it is also risky. Many browsers save passwords in formats that can be easily accessed by malware. A better alternative is to use a dedicated password manager — a secure digital vault that stores and generates strong, unique passwords for every account. Modern password managers use zero-knowledge encryption, sync across devices, and even alert you if your credentials show up in known data breaches.
Another essential layer of protection is multi-factor authentication (MFA). Turn it on for all your critical accounts — especially email, banking, and work-related logins. Even if a hacker steals your password, they won’t be able to access your account without that second verification step, which could be a code from your phone or a fingerprint scan. It’s simple, effective, and adds a powerful layer of security.
In
a recent interview, Heather Adkins, vice president of security engineering at Google, stated that the age of passwords is coming to an end, soon to be replaced by biometrics and hardware keys. That future may be near, but until it becomes the norm, users still need to act wisely today.
You should also keep your devices protected and clean. Infostealers — the malware responsible for many credential leaks — often spread through fake downloads, phishing emails, or malicious ads. Avoid installing cracked software, shady browser extensions, or files from unknown sources. Install a reputable antivirus program on all your devices and keep it up to date. These tools can detect and block threats before they compromise your system.
Keeping your software up to date is equally critical. Cybercriminals routinely exploit known bugs and flaws in older versions of software. Whether it’s your phone, laptop, browser, or apps, always turn on automatic updates where possible to stay protected.
Lastly, consider using personal data removal services. Even if your passwords are secure, your exposed personal information — such as your email address, phone number, or home address — can still be used by scammers for impersonation or targeted attacks. These services scan and remove your data from hundreds of data broker websites, shrinking your digital footprint and making it harder for criminals to link leaked credentials with real identities. While most of these services are paid, the added layer of protection they offer can be worth it.
In today’s online world, protecting yourself goes far beyond strong passwords. It is about building multiple layers of defence — and staying one step ahead of cybercriminals.
Despite all these precautions, it is important to understand that passwords alone are no longer enough. They are overused, often weak, and increasingly vulnerable to theft. Cybercriminals have become highly efficient at exploiting poor password hygiene through malware, phishing, and credential-stuffing attacks. Recognising this, many tech companies are actively working to phase out the traditional password system.
Alternatives like passkeys, biometrics, and device-based authentication are being developed and tested to create a safer, password-free future. One such initiative comes from Google India, which is rolling out a new security feature called 'Identity Check'. This system uses location-aware biometric verification — such as fingerprint or facial recognition — instead of passwords to secure sensitive actions.
Currently available on select Pixel devices running Android 15 QPR1 and Samsung Galaxy phones with One UI 7, the feature activates when users attempt to access or modify critical account settings, especially when outside of trusted locations. It ensures that only the authorised user can make such changes, even if someone else knows their password. It is a significant step forward in personalising security and preventing unauthorised access.
But you don’t need to wait for tech companies to act or for your data to end up in a breach to start taking security seriously. By adopting smart, consistent habits today — like using strong passphrases, enabling multi-factor authentication, and keeping your devices protected — you take control of your online safety in a world where passwords remain the most common, and often weakest, security gate.
Stay Alert. Stay Secure. Your digital identity depends on it!
