Each year, World Password Day, takes place on the 1st May 2025, serves as an important reminder: robust cybersecurity practices are not just for IT departments but fundamental to business resilience and risk management. While organisations increasingly rely on digital infrastructure, password security remains a first line of defence against cyber threats.
Why password security still matters
In an age of sophisticated cyberattacks, it’s tempting to think that passwords are outdated. However, compromised passwords remain one of the leading causes of data breaches worldwide. According to Verizon’s 2024 Data Breach Investigations Report, over 80% of hacking-related breaches involved stolen or weak passwords.
Simple measures like enforcing strong, unique passwords, utilising multi-factor authentication (MFA), and securing privileged accounts can dramatically reduce the attack surface. World Password Day highlights these best practices, encouraging businesses to re-evaluate their cybersecurity approach.
Password management in an ITIL framework
ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library) emphasises a service lifecycle approach to IT management, including security management principles. Effective password management aligns directly with these stages:
Service design: Security requirements, including access management and password policies, should be considered early when designing new services.
Service operation: Processes like Access Management ensure that only authorised individuals have the right access to services. Strong password protocols are a core component.
Adhering to ITIL guidelines ensures that password security is not an afterthought but embedded within the DNA of IT service management.
Cybersecurity and the human factor
Technical defences are only as strong as the human behaviours behind them. Many breaches exploit human error: reusing passwords, clicking phishing links, or neglecting updates.
Cybersecurity awareness training is as critical as deploying firewalls or intrusion detection systems. It’s essential to foster a security-first culture, where every team member understands their role in protecting sensitive data.
Key practices include:
- Encouraging passphrases over simple passwords
- Mandating regular password changes
- Implementing password managers
- Enabling MFA wherever possible
Risk management
From a risk management perspective, poor password hygiene is a significant vulnerability. Under ISO 31000 principles and other risk management frameworks, identifying and mitigating risks is crucial for maintaining operational integrity and customer trust.
Inadequate password controls can:
- Lead to unauthorised access and data breaches
- Result in financial penalties due to regulatory non-compliance (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA)
- Damage reputation and client relationships
By treating password security as a business-critical risk factor, not just an IT issue, organisations can adopt a proactive, strategic approach to cybersecurity.
Strengthen defences with training
At TSG Training, we offer a range of courses designed to enhance your organisation’s cybersecurity capabilities and integrate strong risk management practices into your daily operations. In light of World Password Day, we particularly recommend:
ITIL 4 Foundation Certification Course
Gain a comprehensive understanding of ITIL practices, including risk management, service security, and access management. Ideal for those wanting to integrate security thinking into IT service delivery.
Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
This is for professionals seeking advanced skills in managing and governing enterprise information security. Learn about security incident management, risk management, and governance, which are critical in strengthening organisational resilience.
Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
Focuses on auditing, control, and assurance. Perfect for those responsible for assessing the effectiveness of security policies, including access and password controls.
Simple steps you can take today
On this World Password Day, whether you’re a technical specialist, project manager, or business leader, here are a few immediate actions to strengthen your security posture:
Review password policies: Ensure they are up-to-date, enforce strong passwords, and encourage the use of MFA
Audit access controls: Identify who has access to critical systems and data. Remove unnecessary permissions
Educate teams: Run awareness campaigns to highlight the importance of password security
Invest in training: Equip your staff with professional certifications that empower them to manage risks proactively
Security foundations for the future
In the breaking news of cyberattacks across retailers, World Password Day serves as a call to action. Password security remains a fundamental, frontline defence against increasingly sophisticated cyber threats. By embedding strong password practices within ITIL frameworks, adopting cybersecurity training, and prioritising risk management, organisations lay secure foundations for a resilient digital future.
At TSG Training, we are committed to helping professionals and businesses build this resilience through world-class training and certifications. Explore our full range of cybersecurity, ITIL, and risk management courses today. Visit TSG Training to view upcoming courses or contact us for tailored advice on the best training path for you and your team
