Tech Review: Microsoft says days for '1234' are numbered

Wary of ransomware and hacking, Microsoft is phasing out simple passwords. Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto/designer491

By Peter KingSpecial to NewsdaySeptember 30, 2021

You’re making it too easy for hackers if your password is "password," "1234" or your cat’s name — unless your cat’s name is b$K!g3#67. Weak passwords are the leading cause of ransomware, identity theft and other cybersecurity incidents. Microsoft, noting that "hackers don’t break in, they log in," says it is gearing up for a "passwordless future" by offering home users the option to ditch passwords, a service previously offered only to business customers. Instead of using a password, you sign in to your Microsoft accounts using the free Microsoft Authenticator app on your smartphone or with a onetime code via email or text message.

Strips give way to chips

Another piece of technology is about to disappear. Mastercard is phasing out the magnetic strip on the back of its credit cards. The strip, introduced in the 1960s as a high-tech solution to cashiers having to transcribe every transaction, has been superseded by cards embedded with more secure microprocessor chips. Mastercard says starting in 2024, most cards it issues will not have strips.

Internet may boost retirees’ brain power

A daily dose of internet after you retire may help keep your brain healthy. A European study of retired adults found those who regularly use the internet had a "marked reduction" in cognitive decline compared with non-internet users. Researchers noted that "interacting with others online, finding out information in order to attend social activities or simple tasks like shopping online" may contribute to better brain health.

Walmart testing driverless delivery

Walmart is teaming with Ford and self-driving startup Argo AI to test a driverless delivery service. Ford is providing Escape hybrids outfitted with Argo's self-driving technology to deliver groceries and other merchandise. Walmart has aggressively pursued the possibility of delivering goods via robot rides. Because of the boom in online shopping, analysts say autonomous delivery could become a $1 trillion business.