Hello! This is Shemihaza, your guardian (sentinel). Now that life on the internet has become the norm, we use countless websites and apps, don't we? The 'password' needed to log in is as important as the 'key' that protects your home and possessions. But what if that crucial key was a 'number easily guessed by a thief,' or one that 'opens every door with the same key'? Don't you think that would be extremely dangerous?
Three Pitfalls That Make Your Passwords a Target
- ▸① Reused passwords are like a single key that opens every door!: For example, let's say a password is leaked from a store's member website. If you're using the same password for other banks or social media, malicious actors will use that information to try and log into your other accounts one after another. This is called a 'password list attack,' and there's a risk that all your information could be stolen in a chain reaction. In fact, in June 2026, there was an incident where a large number of email addresses and passwords were leaked due to unauthorized access to KDDI's ISP email system.
- ▸② Weak passwords are like a key visible to thieves!: Simple, easy-to-guess passwords like birthdays, names, 123456, or 'password' can be quickly cracked by special programs used by malicious actors. It's like having the 'secret word' written on the key itself. Such weak passwords can be easily broken using methods called 'brute-force attacks' or 'dictionary attacks.'
- ▸③ 'Remembering in the browser' is convenient, but be careful where it's hidden!: While it's convenient to have your web browser remember passwords, there's a risk that all your stored passwords could be stolen if your computer or smartphone gets infected with a virus or is used by someone without your permission.
Checkpoints to Protect Your Important Digital Life
- ✓Verify that you have set a unique, 'long and complex password' for each service.
- ✓Check that your passwords do not use information easily guessed by others, such as your birthday, name, or simple words.
- ✓For important accounts, ensure you have set up 'two-factor authentication' (such as numbers sent to your smartphone, fingerprints, or facial recognition) in addition to your password.
- ✓If it's difficult to remember passwords yourself, consider using a secure 'password management app.'
- ✓If you receive login notifications you don't recognize or emails prompting password changes, immediately check the official website of that service and do not carelessly click on links in the email.
Where to Seek Help When in Trouble
If you have concerns such as a potential password leak or signs of unauthorized access, immediately contact the service you are using and change your password. Additionally, if you are troubled, do not bear it alone; consult the Police Consultation Hotline (#9110). If you suspect unauthorized use of your credit card, contact your card company immediately.