What is it with websites and their infuriating password requirements?

It's Time to Shift at least some of the password burden from end users to website owners and fully embrace and support password managers.

As we continue to navigate the digital age, passwords have become an essential tool for managing our online lives. However, the cumbersome password requirements imposed by many websites have left many users feeling frustrated and overwhelmed. Instead of placing the password burden on end users, it's high time websites adopt more user-friendly methods of securing user accounts.

The Case for More Flexible Password Requirements

One of the most infuriating aspects of password management is the litany of restrictions imposed by websites. Complex password requirements often mandate the use of specific characters, numbers, and symbols, which can create a cognitive burden for users. This can lead to insecure practices, such as reusing passwords or using easily guessed patterns.

Rather than dictating what characters can and cannot be used, websites should focus on ensuring that users do not choose weak or breached passwords. By cross-referencing user passwords with known breach corpuses, websites can help users avoid compromised credentials without limiting their ability to create memorable and secure passwords.

Password Managers and Copy-Pasting

Another significant issue is websites that prevent users from copying and pasting passwords or interfering with password manager functionality. These practices undermine the very tools designed to protect users and encourage the adoption of secure password practices.

Allowing users to copy and paste passwords or use password managers not only makes the login process more convenient but also promotes the use of unique, strong passwords for each account. Instead of hindering these tools, websites should work to ensure compatibility and seamless integration with password managers to foster improved online security.

zxcvbn

is a password strength estimation library developed by Dropbox. It uses pattern matching and other techniques to check the strength of a given password and provide an estimate of how secure it is. zxcvbn takes into account factors such as password length, character diversity, and common patterns to determine the strength of a password. The library is available for use in various programming languages and can be integrated into applications and websites to help users create stronger passwords.

/.well-known/change-password

The /.well-known/change-password is a standardized URL path that provides a way for websites or applications to specify a location for their change password functionality. It is defined by the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) in the RFC 8615 "Well-Known URIs" specification.

The purpose of this URL path is to make it easier for users to find the change password functionality of a website or application. By following the URL path /.well-known/change-password, users can be redirected to the page where they can change their password without having to search for it. This URL path is also used by password managers and other tools that help users manage their passwords.

It is worth noting that the /.well-known/change-password URL path does not provide any additional security measures for changing passwords, and it is not a replacement for other best practices for securing user accounts, such as strong password requirements, two-factor authentication, and regular password updates.

Further reading: Design your website to work best with 1Password | 1Password Developer

Embracing Alternative Authentication Methods

To further reduce the password burden on end users, websites should also consider implementing alternative, secure forms of authentication. Two-factor authentication (2FA) methods, such as authenticator apps or hardware security keys like Yubikeys, can offer additional layers of security without adding complexity to the user experience.

These advanced authentication methods are less susceptible to common attacks like phishing, and they can protect user accounts even in cases where the password has been compromised. By offering users the option to use 2FA apps or hardware security keys, websites can provide a more secure environment without imposing onerous password restrictions.

Finally

In the quest for greater online security, websites must recognize that placing the password burden on end users is counterproductive. By allowing for more flexible password requirements, supporting password manager use, and implementing alternative authentication methods, websites can empower users to take control of their own security without causing unnecessary frustration. It's time to shift the focus from restrictive password rules to more user-friendly and secure approaches that enhance the overall experience while maintaining account protection.

As we continue to progress in the digital age, it is crucial for websites to prioritize user experience and security in tandem. By adopting a more balanced and comprehensive approach, we can create a safer online environment for all, without sacrificing convenience or usability. Let's work together to remove the barriers that stand in the way of a more secure and enjoyable online experience, and pave the way for a brighter digital future.

Don’t place the burden of passwords on users.