Use of Image-based Mnemonic Techniques to Enhance the Memorability of User-generated Passwords

Abstract

Participants in this study were assigned to one of three different password generation groups: image-based mnemonic, text-based mnemonic, or proactive password checking restrictions alone; and asked to generate and later recall passwords for five separate fictitious online accounts. Password accuracy and recall time were measured following both a short-term (10-minute) and long-term (1-week) delay. Results indicated that passwords were more quickly generated and accurately recalled when they were generated using the image-based mnemonic technique or proactive password restrictions alone, as opposed to the text-based mnemonic technique. Furthermore, use of the image-based mnemonic technique resulted in the generation of passwords that were more resistant to forgetting. Implications and future research considerations are discussed.