Password generators simplify healthy online habits by making complex passwords easier to create, yet caution remains essential. In a conversation conducted in Russian with RT, Vasily Shutov, a leading educator in information security at the KB-1 department of the Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology (MIREA), highlighted this balance between convenience and safety.
Shutov stressed that information security demands steady vigilance and adherence to established guidelines. A truly strong password should be long, include a blend of letters, numbers, and special characters, and be refreshed periodically—ideally at least once a year. The real challenge, he noted, is the sheer number of possible combinations as the number of accounts grows.
“The more online services people use, the more passwords they must manage. Generators offer a lifeline, producing intricate strings of characters that are nearly impossible to crack. But one question remains: are these tools safe in practice? The answer hinges on how the generators operate,” Shutov explained.
According to him, modern password generators rely on cryptographically strong methods to produce random character strings. This approach dramatically lowers the odds of repeating or guessing a password to almost zero, assuming the tool is reputable and properly configured.
He warned against relying on unverified or dubious sources for password generation, as those services may retain or misuse the generated data. Trustworthy, proven services are the safer choice, he asserted.
Shutov pointed out that password managers provide a practical solution for remembering a large number of passwords. They encrypt stored data and let users remember just one master password that unlocks access to all accounts, he emphasized.
Yet he also cautioned about how to use password managers effectively. The master password should be strong and not easily guessed. It should be memorized or stored in a secure real-world location, away from potential digital threats.
Two-factor authentication remains a critical layer of protection. He encouraged users to enable 2FA and to select reputable programs with transparent security policies and solid reputations.
In closing, Shutov warned about potential risks associated with native browser password managers and advised keeping security practices up to date as technologies evolve. The takeaway is clear: even with handy tools, disciplined habits and careful choices are essential to keeping credentials safe across devices and services.
As with many security discussions, the underlying message is practical: use trusted, cryptographically sound password generators, adopt password managers wisely, enable two-factor authentication, and stay vigilant about evolving threats. This combination provides a robust defense in an era of expanding digital footprints, a point reinforced by experts who emphasize consistent, documented best practices. .