Question

analyze the following computer password in terms of how secure it might be. describe the criteria you use in determining its strengths and weaknesses.
born2ski4evr!

Explanation:

To analyze the password "born2ski4evr!":

Criteria for Password Security:

1. Length: The password has 12 characters, which is decent (longer passwords are harder to crack).
2. Complexity (Character Types):

• Lowercase letters: "bornski" (letters: b, o, r, n, s, k, i) – 7 lowercase.
• Uppercase letters: None (no uppercase, reducing complexity).
• Numbers: "2", "4" – 2 numbers.
• Special Characters: "!" – 1 special character.

1. Predictability (Patterns/Common Words):

• Contains a common phrase/word ("born", "ski", "4evr" as "forever") and a number ("2" for "to", "4" for "for"), which could be guessed via dictionary or pattern attacks.

Strengths:

• Length: 12 characters is longer than minimum requirements (e.g., 8), increasing brute-force resistance.
• Mix of Types (Partial): Includes numbers and a special character, adding some complexity.

Weaknesses:

• Lack of Uppercase: No uppercase letters, limiting character set variety.
• Predictable Patterns/Words: Uses common words ("born", "ski") and number substitutions ("2"→"to", "4"→"for"), making it vulnerable to dictionary or "leet" (1337) pattern attacks.
• Limited Special Characters: Only one special character ("!"), reducing the uniqueness of the character set.

Answer:

Criteria for Security:

• Length (12 characters), character type mix (lowercase, numbers, 1 special), and predictability (common words/patterns).

Strengths:

• Length (12 characters) resists brute-force; includes numbers and a special character.

Weaknesses:

• No uppercase letters; predictable words/patterns (e.g., "born", "ski", "2"→"to", "4"→"for"); only one special character.

(Overall, the password has moderate length but lacks complexity in case and predictability, making it somewhat secure but vulnerable to targeted attacks.)