A recent report by Home Security Heroes highlights how artificial intelligence (AI) can be used to crack passwords quickly and efficiently. The report demonstrates the capabilities of an AI tool called PassGAN, which analyzes real passwords from leaked databases to master the art of password cracking.
Cracking Common Passwords
Home Security Heroes tested PassGAN’s ability to crack 15,600,000 common passwords. The results were alarming, with 81% of the passwords cracked in less than a month, 71% in less than a day, 65% in less than an hour, and 51% in less than a minute.
Password Length and Complexity
The susceptibility of passwords to cracking depends on their length and complexity. PassGAN could crack a seven-character password, even with a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols, in just six minutes. A 13-character password consisting only of numbers took only three minutes to crack.
Stronger Passwords
Passwords that combine length and complexity are the most secure. For example, a nine-character password with a mix of different characters would take five years to crack, while an 18-character password with only numbers would take 10 months. An 18-character password with various character types would take an astonishing six quintillion years to crack.
How PassGAN Works
PassGAN differs from traditional password-cracking tools. Instead of relying on manual processes and assumptions about password patterns, PassGAN uses a neural network within the framework of a Generative Adversarial Network (GAN). This allows it to analyze and learn from data, continuously improving its password-cracking capabilities.
Protecting Your Passwords
Despite the threat posed by AI password cracking, there are steps users can take to enhance password security:
- Use strong password patterns: Create longer passwords with a minimum of 15 characters, including a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using obvious patterns or real words.
- Change passwords regularly: Periodically change your passwords to prevent unauthorized access. This is particularly important if you suspect a security breach or have shared your password with the wrong person.
By following these guidelines and practicing good password hygiene, individuals can better protect themselves against AI-powered password cracking tools and maintain their online security.
