Should You Include Account/User Name in Your Password? Pros and Cons

Is it a good practice to include the account or user name in the password? Why or why not?

When it comes to setting up passwords for online accounts, many people face the dilemma of whether to include their account/user name in the password or not. While it may seem convenient to merge the two for easier recall, it's actually a risky practice with potential security implications.

Cons of including account/user name in password:

• Easy to Guess: If your username is part of your password, it becomes much easier for cybercriminals to crack your password through automated tools or guesswork.
• Higher Vulnerability: Inclusion of the username in the password increases the vulnerability of your account to unauthorized access, especially if your username is easily known or discoverable.
• Brute Force Attacks: Hackers often use brute force attacks where they systematically check a large number of username-password combinations. Including your username in the password makes it easier for attackers to execute such attacks.

Pros of not including account/user name in password:

• Enhanced Security: Keeping your username and password distinct enhances the security of your account as it adds an extra layer of protection against unauthorized access.
• Complexity: A password without the username can be made more complex with a combination of random characters, numbers, and special symbols, making it harder to crack.
• Privacy Protection: Excluding the username from the password helps in safeguarding your personal information and maintaining privacy.

Therefore, it is highly recommended not to include your account/user name in your password for the sake of your online security and data protection.