System-Generated Passwords

C.

Users tend to choose easier to remember passwords.

System-generated passwords can provide stronger, harder to guess passwords.

Since they are based on rules provided by the administrator, they can include combinations of uppercase/lowercase letters, numbers and special characters, making them less vulnerable to brute force and dictionary attacks.

One danger is that they are also harder to remember for users, who will tend to write them down, making them more vulnerable to anyone having access to the user's desk.

Another danger with system-generated passwords is that if the password-generating algorithm gets to be known, the entire system is in jeopardy.

Source: RUSSEL, Deborah & GANGEMI, G.T.

Sr., Computer Security Basics, O'Reilly, July 1992 (page 64).

System-generated passwords are passwords that are automatically generated by a computer algorithm, rather than being chosen by a user. These passwords are often used in situations where security is a top priority, such as for administrative accounts or for online banking.

Now, let's look at each of the options given in the question:

A. Passwords are harder to remember for users. This statement is generally true for system-generated passwords. Because the passwords are randomly generated, they are often a long string of characters that can be difficult for users to remember. However, this is not necessarily a disadvantage, as it makes it more difficult for attackers to guess or crack the password.

B. If the password-generating algorithm gets to be known, the entire system is in jeopardy. This statement is also true for system-generated passwords. If an attacker is able to discover the algorithm used to generate the passwords, they may be able to generate their own passwords that can be used to access the system. This is why it is important to use a strong and secure password-generating algorithm.

C. Passwords are more vulnerable to brute force and dictionary attacks. This statement is false. System-generated passwords are typically more secure than passwords chosen by users, as they are generated randomly and are less likely to be easily guessed. However, it is still important to use a strong password-generating algorithm to prevent attackers from being able to guess or crack the password.

D. Passwords are harder to guess for attackers. This statement is generally true for system-generated passwords. Because the passwords are randomly generated, they are less likely to be easily guessed by attackers. However, it is important to note that the strength of a system-generated password also depends on the strength of the algorithm used to generate it.

In conclusion, option C does not apply to system-generated passwords, as they are generally less vulnerable to brute force and dictionary attacks than passwords chosen by users.