How Often Should You Require Users to Change Their Passwords?

One of the common dilemmas in the realm of cybersecurity is determining the frequency at which users should change their passwords. In the past, there was a widespread recommendation that passwords should be changed every 30, 60, or 90 days. However, recent studies and expert insights suggest that this approach may not be as effective as once thought.

Forcing users to change their passwords too frequently can lead to password fatigue, where users resort to predictable patterns or writing down passwords, ultimately weakening security. On the other hand, never changing passwords can create vulnerabilities in case of a data breach or unauthorized access.

So, how often should you require users to change their passwords? The answer lies in implementing a risk-based approach. Instead of a blanket rule for all users, consider factors such as the sensitivity of the data, the user's role, and potential threats faced by the organization.

It is recommended to prompt users to change their passwords under the following circumstances:

• After a security incident or data breach
• When there is suspicion of an account compromise
• On a regular basis for privileged accounts or high-risk users

By adopting a dynamic and risk-aware password management strategy, organizations can enhance security without burdening users with unnecessary password changes.