What should strong passwords NOT include?

Strong passwords are designed to provide robust security, and one key characteristic of such passwords is that they should avoid using easily guessable information, such as the user's name or username. This is primarily because personal information can often be found through social engineering or public records, making it easier for malicious actors to crack passwords.

Choosing a password that includes a user's name or username significantly weakens its potential security. The inclusion of identifiable information makes it more susceptible to dictionary attacks, where attackers use word lists based on personal data. Therefore, avoiding personal identifiers in passwords is a crucial guideline for enhancing security.

In contrast, strong passwords should incorporate at least one symbol, numerals, special characters, and a combination of different character types. Each of these elements contributes to complexity and unpredictability, thus making a password harder to guess or crack.