Security approaches for local Vs remote users- comments needed.

I will keep the opening concept model simple. There are obvious differences in multiuser systems and a "single user personal" one. Many of us are in that "single user" class. And often are testing distro installs for short times then starting over. I propose an intentionally less "secure" password recovery mode. Some method to replicate the "paperclip soft reset" function. Any comments on how one would best do so? TIA Oren