Which of the following is a characteristic of passwords that should be avoided?

The characteristic of passwords that should be avoided is that they include personal information. Passwords that are based on easily obtainable personal information, such as names, birthdays, or phone numbers, present a significant security risk. This type of information is often accessible through social engineering, public records, or social media, making it easier for attackers to guess or crack passwords.

For example, if a password is a user's date of birth, anyone who knows them or has access to their social media accounts might easily deduce the password. Strong passwords should be random and complex, avoiding ties to personal data that could be discovered by potential intruders.

In contrast, passwords that are longer than 12 characters, contain special characters, and are changed regularly are generally considered good security practices. Longer passwords enhance security by increasing the number of potential combinations, while special characters add complexity, making passwords harder to crack. Regularly changing passwords helps mitigate risks associated with credential theft and unauthorized access, reinforcing overall security.