Which method is effective for preventing unauthorized access to sensitive information?

Implementing strong password policies is a fundamental practice in cybersecurity aimed at preventing unauthorized access to sensitive information. Strong passwords are typically complex, involving a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters, making them more difficult for attackers to guess or crack using brute force methods. Additionally, regular updates to passwords can further enhance security by ensuring that even if a password is compromised, its validity is limited over time.

By mandating strong password creation and enforcing policies such as regular password changes, organizations can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access. This aligns well with best practices in information security, as it promotes user accountability and reduces the likelihood of compromised accounts that could lead to data breaches.

In contrast, using outdated software increases vulnerability to security exploits, while sharing passwords can lead to a lack of accountability and an increased risk of unauthorized access. Not updating security settings leaves systems exposed to known threats and vulnerabilities, undermining overall security efforts.