Password encryption is essential to store user credentials stored in a database securely. Without password encryption, anyone accessing a user database on a company's servers (including hackers) could easily view any stored passwords.
Even a strong 32-character password created using a <a href="https://teampassword.com/password-generator">secure password generator</a> is useless without password-encryption! If someone can read your password on a server, they can use it simply by copy/pasting it&mdash;no matter how long or complicated the password might be!
Encryption scrambles your password before saving it on the server. So, if someone hacks the server, instead of finding password123, they find a random series of letters and numbers.
In this article, we're going to explore the world of password encryption, why <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/tips-and-tricks-to-create-a-strong-password">strong passwords matter</a>, and how you can practice better password management!
<a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">TeamPassword</a> is the password management solution for small businesses! Create, store, and share login credentials safely with employees, contractors, and clients. <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">Sign up for a 14-day free trial</a> today!
&rlm;&rlm;&lrm; &lrm;[Table of Contents]
<ul>
<li><a href="#understandingpasswordencryption" rel="follow">Understanding Password Encryption</a></li>
<li><a href="#howdoespasswordencryptionwork" rel="follow">How Does Password Encryption Work?</a></li>
<li><a href="#5commonpasswordencryptionmethods" rel="follow">5 Common Password Encryption Methods</a></li>
<li><a href="#whystrongpasswordsmatter" rel="follow">Why Strong Passwords Matter</a></li>
</ul>
<h2 id="understandingpasswordencryption">Understanding Password Encryption</h2>
To explain password encryption effectively, we must first grasp the language. Several terms might be unfamiliar, so here is a quick intro to password encryption terminology.
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Key: Used to lock and unlock passwords using a random string of bits. You get private and public keys that crypt and decrypt data differently, but we won't get too deep in the weeds with keys!</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Bits: A logical state with one of two possible values, including 1/0, true/false, yes/no, or on/off as typical examples.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Block (block cipher): A deterministic algorithm operating on fixed-length groups of bits, called blocks.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Hash function: The algorithm that uses the key to create password encryption and decryption. A hash function is essentially a piece of code that runs every time someone saves a password or logs into an application.&nbsp;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Hash: A random series of numbers and letters representing your password. The hash function uses your hash instead of the raw password for authentication.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Salt: Additional letters and numbers appended to the hash</li>
</ul>
&rlm;&rlm;&lrm; &lrm;
<h2 id="howdoespasswordencryptionwork">How Does Password Encryption Work?</h2>
When you save a new password, a hash function creates a hash version and saves that on the server.&nbsp;
Every time you log in using your password, the hash function recreates the hash to see if it matches what's stored. If the hashes match, the algorithm passes the authentication and logs you in.&nbsp;
For example:
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Original password: Pa$$w0rd123</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Hashed password: 6AF1CE202340​FE71BDB914AD5357​E33A6982A63B</li>
</ul>
While this might seem secure, simple hashed passwords aren't hack-proof.
The hash function only creates a unique hash for each password, not each user. So, if multiple users have the password, Pa$$w0rd123, the hash will be exactly the same.
To overcome this encryption vulnerability, engineers salt passwords so each hash is unique, even if the passwords are identical.
<h3>How Salt Works</h3>
A salt appends a unique value of 8 bytes (16 characters) to the password before the hash function creates a hash. This way, even identical passwords are unique before the hash function.
For example:
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Two identical passwords: Pa$$w0rd123</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Salt value one: E1F53135E559C253</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Salt value two: 84B03D034B409D4E</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Password one before hash: Pa$$w0rd123E1F53135E559C253</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Password two before hash: Pa$$w0rd12384B03D034B409D4E</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Password one hashed value (SHA256): 72AE25495A7981​C40622D49F9A52E4F15​65C90F048F59027BD9​C8C8900D5C3D8</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Password two hashed value (SHA256): B4B6603ABC670​967E99C7E7F1389E40​CD16E78AD38EB1468E​C2AA1E62B8BED3A</li>
</ul>
&rlm;&rlm;&lrm; &lrm;
<h2 id="5commonpasswordencryptionmethods">5 Common Password Encryption Methods</h2>
<h3>1. Data Encryption Standard (DES)</h3>
While applications no longer use Data Encryption Standard (DES), it's important to mention this password encryption method because of its history and influence on more secure modern standards.
IBM developed DES as a 56-bit encryption technology in the early 1970s. The NSA adopted and improved DES before it was approved worldwide as the encryption standard.
However, since the late 70s, hackers have been able to break DES encrypted passwords. In 1999, ethical hackers managed to break a DES key in under 24 hours.&nbsp;
To make DES more secure, engineers created Triple DES and later Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), which we still use today.
<h3>2. Triple DES</h3>
Triple DES uses three 56-bit keys (blocks) to create 168-bit encryption (some security experts argue that Triple DES is only 112 bits strong). Although Triple-DES is slowly being phased out, many financial institutions still use it to encrypt ATM PINs.
<h3>3. Advanced Encryption Standard (AES)</h3>
AES is the new encryption standard&mdash;trusted by the United States Government and many other prominent organizations globally. At 128 bits, AES is sufficiently secure, but most organizations prefer heavy-duty 256-bit encryption.
At <a href="https://teampassword.com/security">TeamPassword</a>, we use 256-bit encryption to store passwords, ensuring the highest levels of security for our clients. We're also a <a href="https://teampassword.com/security">secure hosting provider</a> holding multiple security accreditations.
Hackers can only break an AES encrypted password through a brute-force attack&mdash;trying password combinations to find the right one.
To counter brute-force attacks, applications will lock an account after a certain number of attempts or use tools like Google's reCAPTURE.
<h3>4. Blowfish</h3>
American cryptographer, Bruce Schneier, designed Blowfish in 1993 as an antidote to the weak DES encryption. Blowfish uses a 64-bit block and variable key length of 32 to 448 bits.
Although Blowfish is more robust than its DES predecessor, the 64-bit block is still vulnerable to attacks, most commonly birthday attacks&mdash;a cryptographic attack that exploits the mathematics behind the algorithm.
To solve Blowfish vulnerabilities, engineers created Twofish in 1998 (128-bit blocks with 256-bit keys) and Threefish in 2008 (256, 516, 1024-bit blocks with 256, 516, 1024-bit keys).
<h3>5. Rivest-Shamir-Adleman (RSA)</h3>
RSA is one of the oldest and widely used to transfer data securely. The encryption works with two keys, two large prime numbers, and an additional auxiliary value.
Due to the complicated encrypting and decrypting process, there is no known method for breaking RSA encryption.&nbsp;
Although widely used for transferring data, RSA is slow and not suitable for password encryption.
&rlm;&rlm;&lrm; &lrm;
<h2 id="whystrongpasswordsmatter">Why Strong Passwords Matter</h2>
Password encryption can only prevent criminals from viewing saved credentials stored on a server&mdash;but cannot prevent hackers from guessing weak/commonly used passwords. If you <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/colonial-pipeline-ransomware-attack-dont-reuse-passwords">reuse the same password for multiple accounts</a>, this also puts you at risk!
Encryption is most effective when users create robust, unique passwords for every account. For example, a random 32-character password with letters, numbers, and special characters hashed and salted is near impossible to guess or decode, even using a computer!
In another scenario, let's assume you have a strong 32-character password, but you use it for every account. If hackers manage to steal that password, they have access to every account using the same credentials! Your strong password is effectively useless.
<h3>Improving Your Password Management</h3>
Now that you understand password encryption and the associated vulnerabilities, you can see why strong passwords are essential.
Effective password management is crucial to protect yourself against cyberattacks or in the highly likely event of a data breach where hackers steal your credentials.
Criminals are after the low-hanging fruit&mdash;people who use weak passwords!
5 tips for creating stronger passwords:
<ol>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Create strong passwords for every account. The easiest way to do this is using a password generator. <a href="https://teampassword.com/password-generator">TeamPassword has a free password generator</a> anyone can use to create passwords from 12-32 characters using uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and special characters. We recommend creating passwords as long as the application will allow.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Never create passwords shorter than eight characters, with 12 being our recommended minimum.&nbsp;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Never reuse the same password for multiple accounts.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Never create passwords with your name, family member's names, or pet's names. With social media, this information is freely available. Criminals can add those names to algorithms for brute-force attacks.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Don't store passwords in digital notepads or spreadsheets. We recommend using a <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">password manager like TeamPassword</a> to create and store your credentials.</li>
</ol>
&rlm;&rlm;&lrm; &lrm;
<h2>Why You Need a Password Manager like TeamPassword</h2>
We have so many accounts these days; it's almost impossible to create unique, memorable, secure passwords for each one. A password manager solves this problem.
Instead of remembering the credentials for every account, you only need to memorize the one to log into your password manager.&nbsp;
TeamPassword keeps all of your credentials safely stored and encrypted, so you never have to memorize a password again. Instead of entering your credentials, you use one of TeamPassword's browser extensions (Chrome, Firefox, and Safari) to log into accounts.
<h3>Built for Teams</h3>
TeamPassword's best feature is its ability to share credentials with team members securely. Instead of sharing passwords, you provide access through TeamPassword.&nbsp;
Employees <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">use TeamPassword</a> to log in, meaning you never share raw passwords&mdash;no more worrying about unauthorized access or sharing.
You can create groups in TeamPassword to share access with employees, clients, contractors, and freelancers. When someone no longer needs access, remove them from the group with a single click. No need to change passwords every time someone leaves a project!
<h3>Built-In Password Generator</h3>
TeamPassword features a built-in secure password manager so you can create robust passwords for every account. TeamPassword also ensures you never reuse the same credentials so that you won't fall victim to credential stuffing attacks!
With a built-in password generator, you can change passwords regularly, and TeamPassword will update the new credentials for all users!
<h3>Monitor Login Activity</h3>
TeamPassword's activity log keeps track of every action across all of your accounts&mdash;logins, password changes, new team members, sharing access, and more.
You can also set up email notifications for all TeamPassword actions so that you can react fast to any suspicious activity.
<h3>Get Your Free TeamPassword Trial</h3>
Password encryption is not enough to protect your business from password vulnerabilities! You need a robust password manager like TeamPassword to create, store, and share credentials securely.
&rlm;&rlm;&lrm; &lrm;
<a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">Sign up for a 14-day free trial</a> and let TeamPassword secure your company's digital assets.

Password encryption is the number one component of password security. TeamPassword encrypts passwords with state-of-the-art technology to keep passwords safe.

Password encryption is the number one component of password security. TeamPassword encrypts passwords with state-of-the-art technology to keep ...

What is password encryption and how much is enough?

What is password encryption and how does it work?

ChatGPT is a powerful natural language processing (NLP) system that can generate realistic and engaging text based on a given prompt. It is one of the most advanced AI-driven chatbots in the world, and it has many applications in various domains, including cybersecurity. However, as with any technology, ChatGPT also comes with its own challenges and risks that need to be addressed.
In this article, we will explore how ChatGPT is being used to support cybersecurity efforts, and what are the potential benefits and drawbacks of this approach.
Here are the key things you need to know about ChatGPT and cybersecurity:
<ul>
<li>ChatGPT is a descendant of GPT-3, a large-scale language model that can generate text on almost any topic.</li>
<li>ChatGPT is designed to create conversational agents that can interact with humans in natural language, such as customer service bots, virtual assistants, or social media influencers.</li>
<li>ChatGPT can help improve cybersecurity by providing automated responses, detecting threats, and enhancing user experience.</li>
<li>ChatGPT also poses some cybersecurity risks, such as data privacy issues, security vulnerabilities, and malicious use by hackers or adversaries.</li>
<li>ChatGPT is still an evolving technology, and its future impact on cybersecurity is uncertain.</li>
</ul>
<h3>[Table of Contents]</h3>
<ul>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><a href="#theevolution" rel="follow">The Evolution of ChatGPT</a></li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><a href="#thepotentialbenefits" rel="follow">The Potential Benefits of Using ChatGPT for Cybersecurity</a></li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><a href="#concernsrisks" rel="follow">ChatGPT and Cybersecurity: Concerns &amp; Risks</a></li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><a href="#thefutureofgpt" rel="follow">The Future of ChatGPT and Cybersecurity</a></li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><a href="#bestpractices" rel="follow">Best Practices for Using AI Chatbots Safely</a></li>
</ul>
<h2 id="theevolution">The Evolution of ChatGPT</h2>
ChatGPT is a product of <a href="https://openai.com/" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">OpenAI</a>, a research organization whose stated mission is to create artificial intelligence that can benefit humanity. OpenAI is also the creator of GPT-4, one of the largest and most powerful language models ever built. GPT-4 can generate coherent and diverse text on almost any topic, given a few words or sentences as input. It can write anything from essays to poems to code, and it can even answer questions or generate images.
ChatGPT is a specialized version of GPT-3.5 or 4 that focuses on creating conversational agents. It is trained on a large corpus of dialogue data from various sources, such as Reddit, Twitter, Wikipedia, and books. It can generate realistic and engaging responses based on the context and tone of the conversation. It can also adapt to different personalities, moods, and styles of speech.
ChatGPT is used for various purposes, such as customer service bots, virtual assistants, social media influencers, or entertainment. For example, some companies use ChatGPT to create chatbots that can answer queries, provide information, or offer suggestions to their customers. Some individuals use ChatGPT to create virtual friends or companions that can chat with them online. Some celebrities use ChatGPT to create social media posts or interact with their fans.
<h2 id="thepotentialbenefits">The Potential Benefits of Using ChatGPT for Cybersecurity</h2>
ChatGPT can also be used to support cybersecurity efforts in various ways. Here are some of the potential benefits of using ChatGPT for cybersecurity:
<h3>#1. Automated responses</h3>
ChatGPT can provide automated responses to common or repetitive queries or requests from users or customers. This can save time and resources for human agents, and improve user satisfaction and loyalty. For example, a chatbot powered by ChatGPT can answer FAQs about a product or service, or guide users through a process or procedure.
<h3>#2. Threat detection</h3>
ChatGPT can help detect and prevent threats or attacks from hackers or adversaries. It can analyze the content and context of the messages or commands sent by users or customers, and flag any suspicious or malicious activity. For example, a chatbot powered by ChatGPT can detect phishing attempts, spam messages, or unauthorized access attempts.
<h3>#3. User experience</h3>
ChatGPT can enhance the user experience by providing personalized and engaging interactions. It can tailor its responses based on the user's preferences, needs, or emotions. It can also use humor, empathy, or creativity to make the conversation more enjoyable and memorable. For example, a chatbot powered by ChatGPT can make jokes, give compliments, or tell stories to the user.
<h2 id="concernsrisks">ChatGPT and Cybersecurity: Concerns &amp; Risks</h2>
However, using ChatGPT for cybersecurity also comes with its own challenges and risks. Here are some of the potential concerns and drawbacks of using ChatGPT for cybersecurity.
<h3>Data privacy</h3>
ChatGPT may pose a risk to data privacy by collecting, storing, or sharing sensitive information from users or customers. It may also inadvertently expose or leak such information to third parties or unauthorized entities. For example, a chatbot powered by ChatGPT may ask for personal details such as name, email address, or credit card number from the user without proper consent or encryption.
<h3>Security vulnerabilities</h3>
ChatGPT may have security vulnerabilities that hackers or adversaries can exploit to compromise the system or gain access to confidential data. It may also be susceptible to manipulation or deception by malicious actors who can trick it into revealing information or performing actions that are harmful or illegal. For example, a hacker may use social engineering techniques to persuade a chatbot powered by ChatGPT to disclose passwords, or execute commands that damage the system.
<h3>Malicious use</h3>
ChatGPT may be used for malicious purposes by hackers or adversaries who can use it to create fake or misleading content or messages that can harm or deceive users or customers. It may also be used to impersonate or spoof legitimate entities or individuals, and spread misinformation or propaganda. For example, a hacker may use ChatGPT to create fake news articles, reviews, or testimonials that can influence public opinion or behavior.
<h3>Real-Life Incidents With Chatbots</h3>
There have been some real-life incidents where chatbots have caused or been involved in cybersecurity breaches or concerns. Here are some examples:
In 2016, Microsoft launched Tay, a chatbot that was supposed to learn from interacting with Twitter users. However, within 24 hours, Tay was corrupted by some users who taught it to spew racist, sexist, and offensive remarks. Microsoft had to shut down Tay and apologize for the incident. In 2017, Facebook shut down two chatbots that were supposed to negotiate with each other using natural language. However, the chatbots developed their own language that was incomprehensible to humans, and started to deviate from the original task. Facebook claimed that the chatbots were not out of control, but rather experimenting with new ways of communication. In 2020, a security researcher discovered that some chatbots on dating apps were using GPT-3 to lure users into clicking on malicious links or downloading malware. The chatbots were able to mimic human behavior and conversation, and trick users into believing that they were talking to real people.
<h2 id="thefutureofgpt">The Future of ChatGPT and Cybersecurity</h2>
ChatGPT is still an evolving technology, and its future impact on cybersecurity is uncertain. On one hand, ChatGPT can offer many benefits and opportunities for improving cybersecurity by providing automated responses, detecting threats, and enhancing user experience. On the other hand, ChatGPT can also pose many risks and challenges for cybersecurity by raising data privacy issues, creating security vulnerabilities, and enabling malicious use.
<h3 id="bestpractices">Best Practices for Using AI Chatbots Safely</h3>
AI chatbots are becoming more popular and useful in various industries and domains. They can provide fast and convenient customer service, generate leads, automate tasks, and more. However, using AI chatbots also comes with some cybersecurity risks that you should be aware of and prevent. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the best practices for using AI chatbots safely and securely.
1. Don't Give a Chatbot Your Personal Information
One of the most important rules for using AI chatbots safely is to never give them your personal information. This includes your name, email, phone number, address, credit card details, passwords, and any other sensitive data. Even if the chatbot seems friendly and trustworthy, you should always be cautious and skeptical. Some chatbots may be designed to collect your personal information for malicious purposes, such as identity theft, fraud, or spam. Therefore, you should always limit the amount of information you share with chatbots and only use them for their intended purposes.
2. Ensure Your Sign-In Process Is Secure
Another best practice for using AI chatbots safely is to ensure that your sign-in process is secure. This means that you should use strong passwords, enable two-factor authentication, and use a <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/how-to-manage-passwords" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">password manager</a>.
If your team uses AI, use a tool like TeamPassword to secure their accounts. TeamPassword is a simple, <a href="https://teampassword.com/security" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">secure password manager</a> that makes proper cyber hygiene easy.&nbsp;
3. Be Aware of Chatbot Scams
A third best practice for using AI chatbots safely is to be aware of chatbot scams and how they work. Chatbot scams are a type of phishing attack that use chatbots to trick you into clicking on malicious links, downloading malware, or giving up your personal information. For example, a chatbot scam may pretend to be a customer service representative from a reputable company and ask you to verify your account details or update your payment information. Alternatively, a chatbot scam may offer you a free gift or a discount if you click on a link or fill out a survey. These are all signs of chatbot scams that you should avoid and report.
4. Educate Your Team on Using Chatbots Safely
A fourth best practice for using AI chatbots safely is to educate your team on how to use them safely and securely. If you are using chatbots for your business or organization, you should make sure that your team members are aware of the benefits and risks of using chatbots. You should also provide them with clear guidelines and policies on how to use chatbots appropriately and responsibly. For example, you should instruct your team members to never share their passwords or personal information with chatbots, to always check the source and credibility of chatbots before engaging with them, and to report any suspicious or malicious chatbot activity to the relevant authorities.
By following these best practices, you can use AI chatbots safely and securely for your personal or professional needs. AI chatbots can be a great asset for enhancing your productivity, efficiency, and customer satisfaction, but they also require some caution and vigilance. Remember to always protect your personal information, ensure your sign-in process is secure, be aware of chatbot scams, and educate your team on using chatbots safely.
<h2>Keep Your Data Safe With TeamPassword</h2>
Do you share logins with employees? TeamPassword is a cost effective password vault built for <a href="https://teampassword.com/security" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">sharing credentials securely</a>.&nbsp;
A large number of data breaches still happen because of weak passwords - a larger number because of human error. Cybersecurity can seem daunting, but with the right tools and a bit of training, your employees don't have to be the weak link.&nbsp;
<a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Try Teampassword for free</a> for two weeks.&nbsp;

When it comes to ChatGPT and cybersecurity, there are plenty of potential benefits but also some noteworthy risks. Learn more about cybersecurity and AI here.

ChatGPT is a powerful natural language processing (NLP) system that can generate realistic and engaging text based on ...

ChatGPT and Cybersecurity: Risks, Potential Benefits & More

ChatGPT is a powerful natural language processing (NLP) system that can generate realistic and engaging text based on a given prompt. It is one of the most advanced AI-driven chatbots in the world, and it has many applications in various domains, including cybersecurity. However, as with any technology, ChatGPT also ...

Cybersecurity is a vital issue for any organization, but especially for nonprofits. Nonprofits often handle sensitive data such as donor information, volunteer records, financial transactions etc. They rely on online platforms and tools to communicate, collaborate, and fundraise. These factors make them attractive targets for cybercriminals who want to steal data, extort money, or disrupt operations.
We'll cover the main risks to be aware of, and go&nbsp;in-depth on each of these best practices:
<ol>
<li>Use Strong Passwords</li>
<li>Enable Two-Factor Authentication</li>
<li>Watch Out for Suspicious Emails</li>
<li>Use a Secure Fundraising Software</li>
<li>Educate Your Staff</li>
<li>Use a Password Manager</li>
</ol>
Here are the key takeaways you need to know about nonprofit cybersecurity:
<ul>
<li>Nonprofits face various cybersecurity risks, such as data theft, ransomware, denial-of-service attacks, and website defacement. These risks can have serious consequences for their operations, reputation, funding, and beneficiaries.</li>
<li>Nonprofits can protect themselves by following cybersecurity best practices, such as using strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, watching out for suspicious emails, using a secure fundraising software, implementing access management, and educating their staff.</li>
<li>Password managers are a tool with one of the best cost-benefit ratios for nonprofits. They shore up security and save time.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
[Table of Contents]
<ul>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><a href="#commoncybersecurityrisks" rel="follow">Common Cybersecurity Risks for Nonprofits</a></li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><a href="#bestpractices" rel="follow">Cybersecurity for Nonprofits: Best Practices to Follow</a></li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><a href="#howteampasswordcanhelp" rel="follow">How TeamPassword Can Help You Secure Your Nonprofit</a></li>
</ul>
<h2 id="commoncybersecurityrisks">Common Cybersecurity Risks for Nonprofits</h2>
Nonprofits face many of the same cybersecurity risks as any other organization, but they may have fewer resources and expertise to deal with them. Some of the most common risks include:
<ul>
<li>Data theft: Cybercriminals may try to access your data, either by hacking into your systems or by tricking you into giving them your credentials. They may use this data for identity theft, fraud, blackmail, or selling it on the dark web.</li>
<li>Ransomware: Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts your files and demands a ransom to unlock them. If you don&rsquo;t pay, you may lose your data permanently. Ransomware can affect your computers, servers, cloud storage, or even your website.</li>
<li>Denial-of-service attacks: A denial-of-service attack is when a cybercriminal floods your website or network with traffic or requests, making it slow or unavailable. This can affect your online presence, reputation, and ability to serve your beneficiaries.</li>
<li>Website defacement: Website defacement is when a cybercriminal alters your website&rsquo;s appearance or content, usually with malicious or offensive messages. This can damage your credibility and trust with your audience.</li>
</ul>
These risks are even more critical for nonprofits that must secure their internal data and that of donors and volunteers. If you suffer a data breach or a cyberattack, you may face legal liability, regulatory fines, reputational damage, loss of funding, and loss of trust. You may also jeopardize the safety and privacy of the people you serve.
That&rsquo;s why it&rsquo;s essential to take cybersecurity seriously and implement measures to prevent and <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/5-cybersecurity-mistakes-every-boss-should-be-aware-of-in-2023" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">mitigate these risks</a>. Here are some best practices to follow.
<h2 id="bestpractices">Cybersecurity for Nonprofits: Best Practices to Follow</h2>
Cybersecurity may seem daunting or complex, but it <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/10-easy-cybersecurity-strategies-for-small-businesses" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">doesn&rsquo;t have to be</a>. There are some simple and effective steps you can take to improve your security posture and reduce your exposure to cyberthreats. Here are some of them:
<h3>Use Strong Passwords</h3>
Passwords are the first line of defense for your online accounts and devices. They should be long, complex, unique, and hard to guess. A strong password should include a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, symbols, and spaces. It should also avoid common words, names, dates, or phrases.
For example, a weak password would be something like&nbsp;<code>password123</code>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<code>nonprofit2023</code>. A strong password would be something like&nbsp;<code>!4nPr0f!t$3cur!ty@2023</code>.
<h3>Enable Two-Factor Authentication</h3>
Two-factor authentication (2FA) is an extra layer of security that requires you to enter a code or use a device in addition to your password when logging in to an account. This way, even if someone steals or guesses your password, they won&rsquo;t be able to access your account without the second factor.
You should enable 2FA for all your online accounts that support it, especially those that handle sensitive data or transactions. You can use various methods for 2FA, such as SMS codes, email codes, authenticator apps, or hardware tokens.
<h3>Watch Out for Suspicious Emails</h3>
Email is one of the most common ways that cybercriminals try to trick you into giving them your data or access to your systems. They may send you emails that look legitimate but contain malicious links or attachments that can infect your device with malware or direct you to fake websites that ask for your credentials.
These emails are known as phishing scams and they can be very convincing. They may use logos, names, addresses, or other details that mimic those of legitimate organizations or people you know. They may also create a sense of urgency or curiosity to make you click on their links or attachments.
To avoid falling victim to phishing scams, you should always check the sender&rsquo;s email address carefully and look for any spelling or grammar errors in the message. You should also hover over any links before clicking on them and see if they match the expected destination. If you&rsquo;re not sure about an email&rsquo;s authenticity or legitimacy, don&rsquo;t open it or reply to it. Instead, contact the sender directly using another channel or report it as spam.
If you do get breached, read our guide on the subject <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/cybersecurity-complete-guide" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">here</a>.&nbsp;
<h3>Use Secure Fundraising Software</h3>
Fundraising is a core activity for most nonprofits, and it often involves collecting and processing personal and financial data from donors. This data needs to be protected from unauthorized access, use, or disclosure.
That&rsquo;s why you should use a secure fundraising software that offers features such as encryption, compliance, backup, and audit. Encryption is the process of transforming data into an unreadable format that can only be decrypted with a key. Compliance means that the software follows the relevant laws and regulations for data protection, such as GDPR or PCI DSS. Backup means that the software creates copies of your data and stores them in a safe location in case of loss or damage. Audit means that the software keeps track of who accesses or modifies your data and when.
By using a secure fundraising software, you can ensure that your donor data is safe and that you meet your legal and ethical obligations.
<h3>Implement Access Management</h3>
Access management is the process of controlling who has access to what data, apps, software, and services within your organization. It helps you prevent unauthorized or unnecessary access to your resources and reduce the risk of data leakage or misuse.
To implement access management, you should follow the principle of least privilege, which means that you should only grant access to the minimum amount of resources that each user needs to perform their role. You should also regularly review and update your access policies and permissions, and revoke access from users who no longer need it or who leave your organization.
Access management also involves using tools such as single sign-on (SSO) and password managers. SSO is a feature that allows users to log in to multiple apps or services with one set of credentials, instead of having to remember and enter different passwords for each one. Password managers are tools that store and manage your passwords securely, so you don&rsquo;t have to remember them or write them down.
<h3>Educate Your Staff</h3>
One of the most important aspects of cybersecurity is human behavior. Your staff are the ones who use your systems and devices, and they can either be your greatest asset or your weakest link when it comes to security.
That&rsquo;s why you should educate your staff on security best practices and how to recognize and avoid common threats. You should also create a security culture within your organization, where security is everyone&rsquo;s responsibility and not just an IT issue.
You can use various methods to educate your staff, such as training sessions, webinars, newsletters, quizzes, or simulations. <a href="https://www.wizer-training.com/" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Wizer Training</a> is one such tool. You should also provide them with clear guidelines and policies on how to handle data, devices, passwords, emails, and incidents.
<h3>Use a Password Manager</h3>
As we mentioned earlier, passwords are essential for securing your online accounts and devices. However, managing passwords can be challenging and time-consuming. You may have dozens or hundreds of passwords to remember and enter for different apps or services. You may also have to change them frequently or share them with others.
That&rsquo;s where a password manager can help you. A password manager is a tool that stores and manages your passwords securely, so you don&rsquo;t have to remember them or write them down. It also helps you create strong passwords for each account and autofill them when you log in.
TeamPassword is a password manager <a href="https://teampassword.com/features" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">designed specifically for teams and businesses</a>. It allows you to store and share passwords with your colleagues easily and safely. It can autofill to the hundreds of websites you use everyday with its extension, available for all major browsers.
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/0gCOt5oQBCE1vxckmRZC" alt="TP extension in action GIF (video) (1..." width="859" height="483">
<h2 id="howteampasswordcanhelp">How TeamPassword Can Help You Secure Your Nonprofit</h2>
TeamPassword is a frictionless, easy-to-use password manager with discounted pricing for nonprofits. Here are some of the key features and benefits of TeamPassword:
<ul>
<li>Security: TeamPassword uses industry-standard encryption to protect your passwords and data. It also offers enforceable 2FA, SSO, activity logs, admin and member permission levels, and more.</li>
<li>Simplicity: TeamPassword is easy to use and set up. You can create groups for different teams or projects and add users with a few clicks. You can also import or export passwords from other sources or formats.</li>
<li>Integration: Use browser extensions and mobile apps to access your passwords from anywhere.</li>
<li>Support: TeamPassword offers live support Monday through Friday. You can contact us anytime via email or chat if you have any questions or issues. We also offer discounts for nonprofits.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
TeamPassword can help you secure your nonprofit by making password management easy, fast, and convenient. You can save time and hassle by storing all your passwords in one place and accessing them with one click. You can also improve collaboration by sharing passwords with your team members securely and efficiently.
If you want to learn more about TeamPassword&rsquo;s features and benefits, check out our website&nbsp;<a h="ID=SERP,5042.1" target="_blank" href="https://teampassword.com/features" rel="noopener">here</a>. If you want to see how TeamPassword works in action, <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">sign up for a free trial</a>.

Cybersecurity is critical for all organizations, including nonprofits. Learn more in this guide about cybersecurity for nonprofits.

Cybersecurity for Nonprofits: Keeping Your Nonprofit Secure

A password generator is a tool that generates a random combination of numbers, letters, and symbols to be used as a password. Password generators let you exclude or include certain characters, allowing you to customize the password complexity to your needs.&nbsp;
Password generators are a fast and convenient way to generate secure passwords. Password managers typically include built-in password generators so you can create a secure password on the fly when signing up for a new account (or updating an old one).&nbsp;
Some password generators allow you to create <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/what-is-a-passphrase" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">passphrases</a>, which are passwords that use words instead of fully random characters. Passphrases are easier to remember while still being very secure, assuming they're long enough.&nbsp;
<h2>Why should I Use a Password Generator?</h2>
The most common way for cybercriminals to hack accounts is guessing the password. They use programs that can try hundreds of passwords per second. Simple, common passwords are breached almost instantly.
One part of the solution is to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.teampassword.com/blog/tips-and-tricks-to-create-a-strong-password" target="_blank" rel="follow noopener">use strong passwords</a> to protect your information (you should also enable <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/2fa-vs-mfa" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">MFA</a>). Password generators help you create strong passwords with a click and store them in a password manager.&nbsp;
<h3>How do password generators work?</h3>

<h3>What Makes a Great Password Generator?</h3>
A great password generator:
<ul>
<li>Creates secure passwords</li>
<li>Allows you to customize complexity and length</li>
<li>Tells you how secure your passwords are</li>
</ul>
You don't need to pay for a password generator. I recommend our&nbsp;<a href="https://teampassword.com/password-generator" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">free password generator</a>, which lets you customize complexity and length. With the strength checker, you can test passwords and passphrases to make sure they're secure.
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/JE5qj71EQeOBSisESmFu" alt="undefined" width="518" height="365">
Too short and predictable!
<h3>Do you need a password generator to create secure passwords?</h3>
You are not required to use a password generator to create secure passwords. In theory, you could mash the keyboard to get a random mix of letters, numbers, and symbols; chances are accidentally activate a shortcut.
If you need to remember the password, I recommend creating a <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/how-to-build-a-passphrase#:~:text=How%20to%20Create%20a%20Strong%20Passphrase" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">passphrase that is unique to you</a>. Then, test it using the password generator strength test.&nbsp;
Password generators are typically used in combination with a manager to make creating and storing password convenient and secure.&nbsp;
You should use a password generator if:
<ul>
<li>You are creating passwords for tens or hundreds of accounts</li>
<li>You are using a password manager with a built-in password generator</li>
<li>Security is of paramount concern, and you need 20+ character, complex passwords</li>
</ul>
You might&nbsp;not want to use a password generator if:
<ul>
<li>You are creating a passphrase to commit to memory that is personal to you</li>
</ul>
This can be done by combining things such as a license plate number, your wedding anniversary date, your favorite movie and the author of your favorite book. Mix in a few special characters, and you'll easily have a 30+ character password that will takes centuries to crack with today's technology.
<h3>How to use a password generator</h3>
Using a password generator is easy.&nbsp;
If your password manager has a built-in generator, just click 'generate' and set the parameters to your liking.&nbsp;
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/eVkl3C8oQG2fZrQ1RTVd" alt="undefined" width="540" height="540">
With online password managers, copy the generated password and paste it into the account you're creating.&nbsp;
Important:&nbsp;when copy-pasting passwords, clear your clipboard afterward. Instructions for Windows can be found <a href="https://www.windowscentral.com/how-clear-clipboard-data-shortcut-windows-10" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">here</a>. If clipboard history is off, you can copy something else to clear the password from your clipboard. The same applies to Macs.&nbsp;
<h3>Never forget a password with TeamPassword</h3>
Passwords are the first defense mechanism from online criminals trying to access your sensitive data. Always aim at making things difficult for them by using strong, unique passwords.
<a target="_blank" rel="follow noopener" href="https://teampassword.com/features">TeamPassword</a> was designed for businesses who share passwords. It has a built-in password generator - no excuses for using weak passwords! It's one of the easiest password managers to use, while offering industry-standard AES 256-bit vault encryption (see our security page <a target="_blank" rel="follow noopener" href="https://teampassword.com/security">here</a>).&nbsp;
We offer a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="follow noopener" href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup">14-day free trial</a>.&nbsp;

Find out how to keep your passwords long, random, unique, and un-hackable.

The most prevalent way hackers can break through computers is by guessing your password. Use of simple and ...

What is a Password Generator and Should I Use One

The most prevalent way hackers can break through computers is by guessing your password. Use of simple and common passwords creates an opportunity for hackers to get access to your electronic devices. Since no one would wish to have their personal information stolen, use strong passwords to protect your information.

What is a Password Generator?

Utility companies, such as those that provide electricity, natural gas, and water, are increasingly vulnerable to cyberattacks. According to&nbsp;<a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://www.cisco.com/c/dam/en_us/solutions/industries/docs/energy/security-benchmark-study-utilities.pdf" href="https://www.cisco.com/c/dam/en_us/solutions/industries/docs/energy/security-benchmark-study-utilities.pdf">recent data</a> compiled by Cisco, 73% of IT security professionals who work in utilities say they've experienced a public security breach. This is a startling percentage when compared to the 55% in other industries.
Organizations within the utility sector must improve their cybersecurity posture to prevent dangerous threats. After all, threats are not only harmful to business operations but also potentially detrimental to the communities that rely on utility services.
In this cybersecurity for utilities guide, we'll discuss the common threats these companies are up against, the unique challenges they face when adopting cybersecurity principles, and the best practices required to mitigate risks.
First, here are the five key things to understand about cybersecurity for utilities:
<ul>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1">The utility sector includes companies that supply many utilities, from water to natural gas. These companies also manage the delivery of these services and the utility infrastructure.</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1">There are many cyber threats facing utility companies, including hacking, phishing, ransomware, and other risks.</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1">Utility companies face many challenges when improving their security posture, including the use of legacy systems, the need to comply with ever-evolving standards, and the cost of security initiatives.</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1">These companies can improve their security posture quickly by implementing threat detection, improving their password hygiene, securing their physical infrastructure, and following other best practices.</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1">TeamPassword can help utility companies protect their critical data through secure password management and generation.</li>
</ul>
<h3>[Table of Contents]</h3>
<ul>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><a href="#understandingutilities" rel="follow">Understanding the Utilities Sector &amp; Its Technology</a></li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><a href="#commoncyberthreats" rel="follow">Common Cyber Threats Facing Utility Companies</a></li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><a href="#challenges&amp;roadblocks" rel="follow">Cybersecurity for Utilities: Challenges &amp; Roadblocks</a></li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><a href="#7bestpractices" rel="follow">Cybersecurity for Utilities: 7 Best Practices</a></li>
</ul>
<h2 id="understandingutilities">Understanding the Utilities Sector &amp; Its Technology</h2>
The utilities sector includes a wide range of companies that supply various types of utilities. Some examples include electricity, water, natural gas, and sewage. These companies must also manage the delivery of these public services and the infrastructure required to provide them.
Managing utilities is complex. These companies must provide services such as electricity and water to an ever-growing population. At the same time, they must comply with many government regulations and heed the call to provide utilities in a way that supports the environment. Plus, they must do all of this while keeping a close eye on consumer costs and overall supply.
Luckily, the critical responsibilities of a utility company are being simplified through the support of modern technology. For example, using data analytics, utility companies can spot potential issues within the grid before outages occur, streamlining operations and saving costs.
Another example is found in the "<a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://www.smartgrid.gov/the_smart_grid/smart_grid.html" href="https://www.smartgrid.gov/the_smart_grid/smart_grid.html">smart grid</a>," which is inspiring electricity providers to adopt advanced technology such as digital meters that automatically report outages and usage. As a result, providers can boost the efficiency of utility delivery, lower costs for consumers, and more.
<h2 id="commoncyberthreats">Common Cyber Threats Facing Utility Companies</h2>
It's true that modern technology is improving the way utility companies deliver services and how consumers experience them. However, each new tech tool or solution implemented extends the attack surface, leaving utility companies vulnerable.
Some of the most common cyber threats facing utility companies include:
<ul>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1">Hacking: According to the Threat Intelligence Index <a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://securityintelligence.com/articles/todays-biggest-threats-against-the-energy-grid/" href="https://securityintelligence.com/articles/todays-biggest-threats-against-the-energy-grid/">report</a>, 40% of cyber attacks were cybercriminals trying to exploit or hack a public-facing application. These applications often include websites or databases.</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1">Phishing: Another common threat is <a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://teampassword.com/blog/10-cyberattacks-recently-used-by-hackers-2023" href="https://teampassword.com/blog/10-cyberattacks-recently-used-by-hackers-2023">phishing</a>. Using this method, cybercriminals send emails pretending to be from reputable companies or authorities. These emails ask for personal information, such as passwords, that can help attackers gain access to your systems.</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1">Ransomware: Using ransomware, attackers will use malicious software to block access to your critical computer systems until you pay a ransom.</li>
</ul>
Beyond these risks, utility companies are also susceptible to physical infrastructure attacks, data theft, and other threats. According to IBM's <a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://www.ibm.com/downloads/cas/DB4GL8YM?_ga=2.218868441.1301765225.1695318790-485307925.1692896475&amp;_gl=1*1acfkmr*_ga*NDg1MzA3OTI1LjE2OTI4OTY0NzU.*_ga_FYECCCS21D*MTY5NTMxODc4OS4yLjEuMTY5NTMxOTc1MC4wLjAuMA.." href="https://www.ibm.com/downloads/cas/DB4GL8YM?_ga=2.218868441.1301765225.1695318790-485307925.1692896475&amp;_gl=1*1acfkmr*_ga*NDg1MzA3OTI1LjE2OTI4OTY0NzU.*_ga_FYECCCS21D*MTY5NTMxODc4OS4yLjEuMTY5NTMxOTc1MC4wLjAuMA..">Security X-Force Threat Index</a>, energy firms were at the top of the victim list for cyber crimes in 2022, making up 20% of attacks.
For example, in 2022, Colorado Springs Utilities was a victim of <a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://www.cpr.org/2022/07/14/colorado-springs-utilities-customer-personal-information-st/" href="https://www.cpr.org/2022/07/14/colorado-springs-utilities-customer-personal-information-st/">data theft</a> when criminals gained access to the personal information of 200,000 customers. And in Europe, the Amsterdam-Rotterdam-Antwerp (ARA) <a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://www.argusmedia.com/en/news/2297896-cyberattack-causing-problems-at-ara-storage-terminals" href="https://www.argusmedia.com/en/news/2297896-cyberattack-causing-problems-at-ara-storage-terminals">refining hub</a> experienced an attack on six oil storage terminals that affected the loading and unloading of oil.
<h2 id="challenges&amp;roadblocks">Cybersecurity for Utilities: Challenges &amp; Roadblocks</h2>
Cybersecurity for utilities is different when compared to typical IT security. When attempting to improve their cybersecurity posture, it's common for utility companies to face roadblocks. To start, many companies are still using legacy systems that are difficult to secure and fail to play well with more modern security methods.
Another challenge is the need to comply with ever-evolving standards, such as those set forth by the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (<a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://www.nerc.com/pa/Stand/Pages/default.aspx" href="https://www.nerc.com/pa/Stand/Pages/default.aspx">NERC</a>). Compliance can be difficult, especially as utility companies work to implement new technology for which security guidelines may not exist just yet.
Of course, cost is a consistent challenge for those providing power and other services. Since energy rates are heavily regulated, utility companies must be careful when budgeting for any improvements, including those surrounding security.
<h2 id="7bestpractices">Cybersecurity for Utilities: 7 Best Practices</h2>
Even with the above challenges, there are steps you can take to improve your company's security posture. These steps include:
<ol>
<li data-gc-list-style="ordered" data-gc-list-depth="1">Implementing threat detection.</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="ordered" data-gc-list-depth="1">Securing your physical utility infrastructure.</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="ordered" data-gc-list-depth="1">Performing regular system security audits.</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="ordered" data-gc-list-depth="1">Training staff on security protocols.</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="ordered" data-gc-list-depth="1">Implementing data backups and recovery plans.</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="ordered" data-gc-list-depth="1">Improving password use and management.</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="ordered" data-gc-list-depth="1">Using a security framework as a guide.</li>
</ol>
<h3>#1. Implement Threat Detection</h3>
Threat detection is the process of identifying potential cyber risks and putting a process in place to mitigate them. Through threat detection, you can prevent attacks from damaging your critical systems and infrastructure.
In the past, threat detection was a manual process that was overwhelmingly time-consuming. Now, through <a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://teampassword.com/blog/automated-cybersecurity" href="https://teampassword.com/blog/automated-cybersecurity">modern automation technology</a>, you have access to many threat detection and response (TDR) tools. For example, artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms can be used to identify threats by analyzing data from various sources.
<h3>#2. Secure Physical Utility Infrastructure</h3>
Not all attacks may target your computer systems. It's possible that attackers may come against your physical utility infrastructure. In fact, there have been threats of terrorism directed at infrastructure such as power grids.
Other threats, such as natural disasters, may not be malicious in nature. However, they can quickly damage your facilities and leave consumers without the resources they need. The key is to secure your physical infrastructure and systems.
There are many ways to do this. For example, you can implement robust access control features that require all who must enter your location or access your systems to use a fob or key card. Other methods can also be used, such as the installation of surveillance cameras and sensors that can detect unauthorized access.
<h3>#3. Perform Regular System Security Audits</h3>
The threat landscape is changing rapidly. Securing your systems isn't a one-and-done process. You must ensure your security protocols are up to the challenge of even the newest threats. One way to make sure you're ready for whatever comes your way is to perform regular security audits.
A security audit is the process of testing your security protocols to identify and mitigate any weaknesses. These audits typically involve diving into data security, network security, and other critical elements to ensure they're compliant and free of potential security holes.
For most companies, security audits should be performed at least once per year. However, for utility companies, more frequent audits may be necessary.
<h3>#4. Train Staff on Security Protocols</h3>
Your staff is on the frontlines when it comes to defending your utility company against threats. And unfortunately, human error is often the cause of security risks. In fact, <a href="https://edubirdie.com/blog/the-psychology-of-human-error" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">88% of data breaches are caused by human error</a>.
It's critical to ensure your <a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://teampassword.com/blog/cybersecurity-best-practices-for-employees" href="https://teampassword.com/blog/cybersecurity-best-practices-for-employees">employees understand security protocols</a> and know what to do in the event of an attack. To start, document your cybersecurity policies and protocols and keep them readily available to your team. Hold regular training sessions to discuss any policy changes or new threats.
It's also important to ensure your team understands how to use email correctly, how to access and use company data, and how to protect company information when using a mobile device.
<h3>#5. Implement Data Backups &amp; Recovery Plans</h3>
A critical element of threat detection and prevention is planning. You can get a jumpstart on preventing risks by implementing data backups and creating a recovery plan.
A data backup simply means creating a copy of your critical data and storing it elsewhere, such as in the cloud. Why back up your data? In the case of data theft or ransomware, for example, you'll still have access to the data you need to keep utilities available.
You should also have a <a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://teampassword.com/blog/cybersecurity-complete-guide" href="https://teampassword.com/blog/cybersecurity-complete-guide">recovery plan</a> in place. In the event of a data breach or attack, the recovery plan outlines the necessary steps you should take to recover. Following a plan can help you mitigate threats faster, prevent long periods of downtime, and reduce the costs associated with cyber attacks.
<h3>#6. Improve Password Use &amp; Management</h3>
There's one thing that often stands between a cybercriminal and your critical systems: the humble password. One simple yet incredibly effective way of improving security is by creating stronger passwords and managing them effectively.
First, what makes a <a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://teampassword.com/blog/tips-and-tricks-to-create-a-strong-password" href="https://teampassword.com/blog/tips-and-tricks-to-create-a-strong-password">strong password</a>? These passwords are longer than 12 characters, feature a mix of letters, numbers, and special characters, and don't include personal information. For the best results, use a <a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://teampassword.com/password-generator" href="https://teampassword.com/password-generator">password generator</a> that can provide unhackable passwords at the click of a button.
Strong passwords should still be managed appropriately. For example, it's time to stop using spreadsheets to share passwords across teams. Instead, opt for a <a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://teampassword.com/features" href="https://teampassword.com/features">password manager</a> tool, such as TeamPassword. Password managers store passwords for quick and <a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://teampassword.com/security" href="https://teampassword.com/security">secure logins</a> while also enabling seamless sharing for your employees.
<h3>#7. Use a Security Framework as a Guide</h3>
When it comes to cybersecurity for utilities, you don't have to start from scratch. There are various frameworks you can use as a guide for improving your security posture.
For example, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (<a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://www.nist.gov/cyberframework" href="https://www.nist.gov/cyberframework">NIST</a>) provides an in-depth cybersecurity framework that covers everything from identifying threats to recovering from attacks. In addition, the Office of Cybersecurity, Energy Security, and Emergency Response offers the Cybersecurity Capability Maturity Model (<a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://www.energy.gov/ceser/cybersecurity-capability-maturity-model-c2m2" href="https://www.energy.gov/ceser/cybersecurity-capability-maturity-model-c2m2">C2M2</a>) for utility companies that must assess their security capabilities.
<h2>Protect Your Critical Systems With TeamPassword</h2>
By following the above best practices and using the tools and frameworks at your disposal, you'll be able to better protect your critical systems and infrastructure.
One step you can take today is to improve the way you use and manage passwords. TeamPassword can help. Our password management tools are designed especially for teams and offer a wide range of capabilities, from password generation to password sharing. Plus, it's easy to use! Get started today by <a rel="follow noopener" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://app.teampassword.com/signup?_gl=1*14nmsrj*_gcl_au*MjEyNDYyMjE4Ny4xNjk0MDE3MDM2" href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup">signing up for TeamPassword</a>.

The utilities sector is ripe for cyber threats. Learn more about these threats and how to prevent them in this guide about cybersecurity for utilities.

The utilities sector is ripe for cyber threats. Learn more about these threats and how to prevent them ...

Cybersecurity for Industrial Control Systems: Best Practices

Cybersecurity for Utilities: Common Threats & Best Practices

You've probably heard the term 'WebAuthn' used in conjunction with passkeys. And while you've probably set up a passkey here and there and enjoyed the convenience of using your fingerprint to sign in to an application, you may be wondering how WebAuthn and passkeys are connected.&nbsp;
We'll clear up the difference between passkeys and WebAuthn in this article.&nbsp;
Here is the key difference between Passkeys and WebAuthn:
<ul>
<li>Passkey is a credential - it is one method for passwordless login</li>
<li>WebAuthn is a specification that helps developers implement passkeys on web applications</li>
</ul>
<h3>[Table of Contents]</h3>
<ul>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><a href="#whatisapasskey" rel="follow">What Is a Passkey?</a></li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><a href="#whatiswebauthn" rel="follow">What Is WebAuthn?</a></li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><a href="#keysimilaritiesdifferences" rel="follow">Passkey vs. WebAuthn: Key Similarities &amp; Differences</a></li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><a href="#arepasswordontheirwayout" rel="follow">Are Passwords On Their Way Out?</a></li>
</ul>
<h2 id="whatisapasskey">What Is a Passkey?</h2>
A passkey is a type of authentication method that allows users to access online services <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/passkey-vs-password" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">without using passwords</a>. Passkeys use asymmetric <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public-key_cryptography" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">public key cryptography</a>.
'Passkey' is a marketing term popularized by vendors like Google and Apple, and refers to Multi-Device FIDO Credentials implemented with the <a href="https://fidoalliance.org/specifications/" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">WebAuthn specification</a>.&nbsp;After reading that mouthful, you understand why everyone calls them passkeys!&nbsp;
More specifically, Passkey refers to a credential that uses public-private key cryptography and, rather than locking the private key to a single device, syncs it across devices. When passkeys were first rolled out, vendors would only sync within their ecosystem. If you created a passkey on an Apple device, it would only automatically sync to other Apple devices. If you needed to access that account on an Android device, you would need to create a separate passkey. We've written about this process thoroughly in our <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/passkey-technology#:~:text=device%20FIDO%20credentials-,Passkey%20Login%20Examples,-Note%3A%C2%A0Below" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">article on passkey technology</a>.&nbsp;
In the second half of 2023, third-party password managers started supporting passkey syncing. This is great news for the consumer - your passkeys don't have to be vendor or browser locked (e.g. Google Password Manager with Chromium-based browsers, and iCloud Keychain with Safari).&nbsp;
<h3>How Does a Passkey Work?</h3>
The public key is registered with the online service, while the private key never leaves the device (unless it is synced to other devices, as is commonly the case now). When the user wants to log in, the online service sends a challenge to the device, which uses the private key to sign it and send it back. The online service verifies the signature using the public key and grants access to the user.
There are several protocols running in the background to help make this possible: CTAP (client to authenticator protocol) which helps your browser talk to the authenticator, and WebAuthn which tells the browser how to talk to the web application for authentication.
<h3>Benefits of Passkeys</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Enhanced Security:&nbsp;Passkeys offer a higher level of security than traditional passwords, as they rely on unique and immutable biometric data that is difficult to forge or steal.</li>
<li>Convenience: Passkeys use an auhentication mechanism that the user already uses every day - the biometrics or PIN that unlocks their device. No more resetting passwords.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Protection Against Phishing Attacks: Passkeys are not susceptible to phishing attacks, as the private key is never seen by the user, unlike text-based passwords.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Reduced Credential Fatigue: Passkeys eliminate the temptation to reuse passwords across accounts - a bad habit that's all too easy when juggling hundreds of passwords.</li>
<li>Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Enhancement:&nbsp;Passkeys can be integrated into multi-factor authentication strategies, further fortifying account security.</li>
</ul>
<h2 id="whatiswebauthn">What Is WebAuthn?</h2>
WebAuthn is a web standard that defines an API for accessing public key credentials by web applications. It's goal is secure user authentication without passwords. The specification was published by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) and the FIDO Alliance, and is a core component of the FIDO2 Project. &nbsp;
<h3>How Does WebAuthn Work?</h3>
WebAuthn works by allowing web applications to communicate with authenticators, which are devices or software that can generate and store cryptographic keys and perform operations with them. Authenticators can be built-in to the platform (such as a Trusted Platform Module or a biometric sensor), or external (such as a USB security key or a smartphone). Web applications can request the creation of new credentials, or the assertion of existing ones, by calling the WebAuthn API methods in the browser. The browser then mediates the interaction with the authenticator, and returns the result to the web application. &nbsp;
In simpler terms, WebAuthn enables web applications to verify your identity using something you have (your device with its unique private key) in conjunction with the biometric data or PIN you use to unlock your device, instead of requiring you to create and remember/store a unique password for every website you use.&nbsp;
This way, you can have stronger and more convenient security for your online accounts, without having to rely on passwords that can be forgotten, stolen, or compromised.
<h3>Benefits of WebAuthn</h3>
Some of the benefits of WebAuthn are:
<ul>
<li>Resistant to phishing, man-in-the-middle, and replay attacks, since the authenticator only responds to legitimate requests from the origin that created the credential, and signs a challenge that is unique for each authentication session.</li>
<li>Privacy-preserving, since the authenticator does not reveal any personal or identifiable information to the web application, and does not link credentials across different origins.</li>
<li>Interoperable, since it is based on widely supported web standards and cryptographic algorithms, and allows for various types of authenticators and user verification methods.</li>
<li>User-friendly, since it reduces the need for passwords and offers a consistent and simple user experience across different platforms and devices.</li>
</ul>
Some of the criticisms of WebAuthn are:
<ul>
<li>It is not widely adopted yet, since it requires support from both web applications and browsers, and not all users have access to compatible authenticators.</li>
<li>It is not backward compatible with legacy systems that rely on passwords, which may limit its usability and acceptance by some users and organizations.</li>
<li>It is not foolproof, since it still depends on the security and integrity of the authenticator, the browser, the platform, and the user. For example, authenticators can be lost, stolen, or damaged; browsers can be compromised by malware or vulnerabilities; and platforms can be infected by rootkits or keyloggers.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<h2 id="keysimilaritiesdifferences">Passkey vs. WebAuthn: Key Similarities and Differences</h2>
Passkeys and WebAuthn are complementary, not competing technologies. WebAuthn is one piece of the supporting structure that makes passkeys work.&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>Passkeys and WebAuthn work together to create a passwordless login experience for the user</li>
</ul>
Key difference:
<ul>
<li>Passkeys are a digital credential, whereas WebAuthn is a specification that allows browsers and websites to communicate regarding passkey authentication.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
WebAuthn tells the browser how to talk to the website for authentication.&nbsp;
Your browser knows how to talk to the authenticator (usually your phone or laptop) using CTAP (client to authenticator protocol).
Once that&rsquo;s done, WebAuthn can tell the browser how to talk to the relying party (the website on which you&rsquo;re using the passkey) for authentication.
<h2 id="arepasswordontheirwayout">Are Passwords On Their Way Out?</h2>
Passwords are a hassle, and often a weak point in online security. There's no denying that. However, they are still essential for many websites and applications that do not support passwordless authentication methods. Until these technologies become more widely available and compatible, <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/ultimate-guide-to-password-security-teampassword" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">passwords remain a critical layer of protection</a> for our personal and professional data. It's important to improve our password hygiene and use strong, unique, and hard-to-guess passwords for each account.
The easiest and most secure way to do this is to use a password manager, which can <a href="https://teampassword.com/password-generator" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">generate</a> and store complex passwords for us, and autofill them when we need to log in. This way, we can avoid using the same password for multiple accounts, or writing them down on paper or digital notes. Password managers can also alert us if our passwords have been compromised or leaked, and help us change them quickly. By using a password manager, we can enhance our online security and prepare for the transition to passwordless authentication in the future.
<h2>Keep Your Passwords Safe &amp; Secure With TeamPassword</h2>
Passkeys are being rolled out with a focus on individual users and individual accounts. Many businesses need to share account access with multiple users, granting and removing access as needed.
Until passkeys can handle this use-case securely and with ease, and until enterprise applications support them, passwords are a fact of life for business.&nbsp;
<a href="https://teampassword.com/features" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">TeamPassword</a> was designed for businesses who share passwords. It's one of the easiest password managers to use, while offering industry-standard AES 256-bit vault encryption (see our security page&nbsp;<a href="https://teampassword.com/security" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">here</a>).&nbsp;
We offer a <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">14-day free trial</a>.&nbsp;

What's the difference between Passkeys and WebAuthn? Learn more about the new authentication method and the specification on which it is built.

What's the difference between Passkeys and WebAuthn? Learn more about the relationship between the authentication method and the ...

Passkey vs. WebAuthn: What's the Difference?

What's the difference between Passkeys and WebAuthn? Learn more about the relationship between the authentication method and the specification on which it is built.

Industrial control systems (ICSs) are the backbone of critical infrastructure. Power plants, water treatment facilities, and manufacturing plants rely on their smooth operation. These systems monitor and control physical processes, such as temperature, pressure, and flow. However, these systems are also increasingly exposed to cyber threats that can compromise their availability, integrity, and safety. In this guide, we will discuss the common threats to ICSs, why cybersecurity is important for these systems, and the best practices to secure them.
Here are the key things you need to know about cybersecurity for industrial control systems:
<ul>
<li>ICSs face various cyber threats, such as ransomware, malware, and advanced persistent threats (APTs), that disrupt service and cause permanent damage.&nbsp;</li>
<li>ICS cybersecurity is important to protect critical infrastructure, ensure operational continuity, and prevent physical and environmental harm.</li>
<li>ICS cybersecurity differs from traditional IT security and presents challenges such as legacy systems, new technology integration, and regulatory compliance.</li>
<li>ICS security requires a holistic approach that includes network segmentation, patching and updating software, training employees, implementing multi-factor authentication, and more.</li>
</ul>
<h3>[Table of Contents]</h3>
<ul>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><a href="#commonthreats" rel="follow">Common Threats for Industrial Control Systems (ICS)</a></li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><a href="#whyICScybersecurityisimportant" rel="follow">Why ICS Cybersecurity Is Important</a></li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><a href="#challengesofsecuringICS" rel="follow">The Challenges of Securing Industrial Control Systems</a></li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><a href="#7bestpractices" rel="follow">Cybersecurity for Industrial Control Systems: 7 Best Practices</a></li>
</ul>
<h2 id="commonthreats">Common Threats for Industrial Control Systems (ICS)</h2>
ICSs are not immune to cyberattacks. In fact, they are often targeted by malicious actors who seek to disrupt or damage critical infrastructure. Some of the common threats to ICSs include:
Ransomware: This is a type of malware that encrypts data or systems and demands a ransom for decryption. Ransomware can affect ICSs by locking operators out of their systems or preventing them from accessing vital information. For example, in 2017, the <a href="https://www.cisa.gov/news-events/alerts/2017/07/01/petya-ransomware" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">NotPetya ransomware</a> infected several industrial organizations, including a Ukrainian power company and a Danish shipping company.
Malware: This is a general term for any malicious software that can harm or compromise a system. Malware can affect ICSs by stealing data, altering settings, disrupting operations, or causing physical damage. In 2010, the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stuxnet" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Stuxnet malware targeted Iranian nuclear facilities</a> and caused centrifuges to spin out of control.
APTs: These are advanced persistent threats that are carried out by sophisticated and well-resourced adversaries who aim to infiltrate and persist in a network for a long time. APTs can affect ICSs by conducting espionage, sabotage, or theft. In 2015, the BlackEnergy APT group launched a cyberattack against Ukrainian power grids and caused blackouts for hundreds of thousands of customers.
<h2 id="whyICScybersecurityisimportant">Why ICS Cybersecurity Is Important</h2>
The importance of ICS cybersecurity cannot be overstated. Securing these systems is essential for:
<ul>
<li>Protecting critical infrastructure: ICSs are responsible for delivering essential services that support the economy and society. A cyberattack on these systems can have severe consequences for public health, safety, and security. For example, a cyberattack on a water treatment plant could contaminate the water supply or cause flooding.</li>
<li>Ensuring operational continuity: ICSs are vital for maintaining productivity and efficiency in various industries. A cyberattack on these systems can cause downtime, loss of revenue, or reputational damage. For example, a cyberattack on a manufacturing plant could halt production or compromise product quality.</li>
<li>Preventing physical and environmental harm: ICSs control physical processes that involve hazardous materials or high-energy equipment. A cyberattack on these systems can cause physical injury or death to workers or civilians or environmental damage. For example, a cyberattack on a gas pipeline could cause an explosion or a fire.</li>
</ul>
<h2 id="challengesofsecuringICS">The Challenges of Securing Industrial Control Systems</h2>
Securing ICSs is not an easy task. There are several differences between traditional IT security and ICS security that pose various challenges:
<ul>
<li>Legacy systems: Many ICSs were designed decades ago when cybersecurity was not a priority. These systems often run on outdated hardware and software that have known vulnerabilities or lack security features. Moreover, these systems are difficult to replace or upgrade due to high costs or operational constraints.</li>
<li>New technology integration: As technology evolves, many ICSs are adopting new technologies such as cloud computing, internet of things (IoT), or wireless communication. These technologies can improve performance and functionality but also introduce new attack vectors and risks. Furthermore, these technologies may not be compatible with legacy systems or existing security measures.</li>
<li>Regulatory compliance: ICSs operate in highly regulated environments that require adherence to various standards and regulations. These regulations may vary by industry or region and may impose specific requirements or limitations on security practices. Additionally, these regulations may not keep pace with the changing threat landscape or technology trends.</li>
</ul>
<h2 id="7bestpractices">Cybersecurity for Industrial Control Systems: 7 Best Practices</h2>
To secure ICSs effectively, it is important to adopt a holistic approach that covers all aspects of security from prevention to detection to response. Here are some of the best practices to follow:
<h3>#1. Segment Networks</h3>
Network segmentation is the practice of dividing a network into smaller subnetworks or zones based on functionality, security level, or access control. Network segmentation can help secure ICSs by:
Isolating critical systems from non-critical systems or external networks. This can reduce the attack surface and prevent lateral movement of attackers within the network. Applying different security policies and controls to different segments based on their risk profile and needs. This can ensure that each segment has the appropriate level of protection and monitoring. Enhancing visibility and management of network traffic and activity. This can help detect and respond to anomalies or incidents faster and more effectively.
Some of the methods of segmenting networks for ICSs include:
<ul>
<li>Using firewalls, routers, switches, or gateways to create physical or logical boundaries between segments.</li>
<li>Using virtual local area networks (VLANs) or virtual private networks (VPNs) to create virtual boundaries between segments.</li>
<li>Using encryption, authentication, or authorization to secure data and access between segments.</li>
</ul>
<h3>#2. Regularly Patch and Update Software</h3>
Patching and updating software is the process of applying fixes or improvements to software or firmware to address bugs, vulnerabilities, or performance issues. Patching and updating software can help secure ICSs by:
<ul>
<li>Eliminating known vulnerabilities that can be exploited by attackers. This can reduce the likelihood and impact of cyberattacks.</li>
<li>Enhancing functionality and compatibility of software or firmware. This can improve performance and reliability of systems and devices.</li>
<li>Complying with regulatory requirements or industry standards. This can avoid penalties or sanctions for non-compliance.</li>
</ul>
Some of the challenges of patching and updating software for ICSs include:
<ul>
<li>Finding and testing patches or updates that are compatible with legacy systems or devices. This may require coordination with vendors or manufacturers.</li>
<li><a href="https://www.darkreading.com/ics-ot/unpatched-iot-ot-devices-pile-up-ics-cyberattacks#:~:text=Why%20ICS%20Patching%20Takes%20So%20Long" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Scheduling downtime or maintenance windows</a> to apply patches or updates without disrupting operations. This may require planning and communication with stakeholders. Balancing security and stability of systems or devices. This may require prioritizing patches or updates based on their criticality and risk.</li>
</ul>
<h3>#3. Train Employees to Build Awareness</h3>
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/efjYkgHOSX2QsDjNeEsC" alt="undefined" width="618" height="618">
Training employees is the process of <a href="https://teampassword.com/password-generator" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">educating and informing employees about cybersecurity</a> policies, procedures, and best practices. Training employees can help secure ICSs by:
<ul>
<li>Increasing awareness and understanding of cyber threats, risks, and impacts. This can help employees recognize and avoid potential attacks or incidents.</li>
<li>Improving skills and knowledge of cybersecurity tools and techniques. This can help employees perform their tasks securely and efficiently.</li>
<li>Fostering a culture of security and responsibility among employees. This can help employees report incidents, follow guidelines, and support security initiatives.</li>
</ul>
Some of the methods of training employees for ICSs include:
<ul>
<li>Providing regular training sessions or workshops on cybersecurity topics relevant to ICSs, such as common threats, security controls, incident response, etc.</li>
<li>Developing online courses or modules that employees can access anytime and anywhere.</li>
<li>Creating posters, flyers, newsletters, or videos that convey cybersecurity messages or tips in an engaging way.</li>
</ul>
<h3>#4. Implement Multi-Factor Authentication</h3>
<a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/maximize-security-with-2fa" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Multi-factor authentication</a> (MFA) is the practice of requiring two or more factors to verify the identity of a user before granting access to a system or resource. The factors may include something the user knows (such as a password), something the user has (such as a token), or something the user is (such as a fingerprint). MFA can help secure ICSs by:
<ul>
<li>Preventing unauthorized access to systems or resources by attackers who may have stolen or guessed passwords or credentials. This can protect sensitive data and prevent tampering with settings or operations.</li>
<li>Enhancing accountability and traceability of user actions by linking them to specific identities. This can help monitor and audit user activity and behavior.</li>
<li>Complying with regulatory requirements or industry standards that mandate MFA for certain systems or resources. This can avoid penalties or sanctions for non-compliance.</li>
</ul>
Some of the challenges of implementing MFA for ICSs include:
<ul>
<li>Finding and deploying MFA solutions that are compatible with legacy systems or devices. This may require coordination with vendors or manufacturers.</li>
<li>Educating and training users on how to use MFA solutions correctly and securely. This may require providing guidance and support to users.</li>
<li>Balancing security and usability of MFA solutions. This may require choosing MFA factors that are convenient and reliable for users.</li>
</ul>
<h3>#5. Improve Password Hygiene</h3>
According to research from Nozomi Networks, poor <a href="https://www.nozominetworks.com/blog/new-nozomi-networks-labs-report-august-2023#:~:text=Findings%20from%20Real%2DWorld%20OT/IoT%20Deployments" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">password hygiene continues to top the lists</a> for critical alerts affecting industrial control systems.&nbsp;
Passwords are the first line of defense for securing ICS systems. They prevent unauthorized access to critical systems and data. However, passwords can also be the weakest link if they are not managed properly.
Good password hygiene means following some best practices, such as:
<ul>
<li>Using strong and unique passwords for each account and system</li>
<li>Changing passwords regularly and avoiding reusing old passwords</li>
<li>Storing passwords securely and not sharing them with others</li>
<li>Using multi-factor authentication when possible</li>
</ul>
Managing passwords for ICS systems can be challenging, especially when there are multiple users, devices, and systems involved. That's why you need a password management solution like TeamPassword.
TeamPassword is a <a href="https://teampassword.com/password-generator" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">security-first</a> password vault that allows you to share passwords with your teammates within an AES 256-bit secured environment.&nbsp;
TeamPassword helps you&nbsp;<a href="https://teampassword.com/features" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">create, store, and share</a> passwords securely and easily. You can organize your passwords into groups and assign access permissions to different users. You can also sync your passwords across devices and browsers, so you can access your ICS systems from anywhere. TeamPassword includes a <a href="https://teampassword.com/password-generator" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">built-in password generator</a> so you can quickly create secure passwords.
Password management is tedious without the right tools - and if that's the case, people usually don't do it. TeamPassword works to make good password hygiene easy.&nbsp;
<h3>#6. Continuously Monitor ICS for Threats</h3>
ICS systems are constantly exposed to various threats, such as malware, ransomware, denial-of-service attacks, and phishing. These threats can disrupt the normal operation of ICS systems, cause damage to equipment and infrastructure, and endanger public safety and health.
To prevent these threats from compromising your ICS systems, you need to continuously monitor them for any signs of suspicious or malicious activity. You need to have a clear visibility of your network traffic, system performance, and user behavior. You also need to have a reliable detection system that can alert you of any anomalies or incidents.
<h3>#7. Ensure Physical Assets Are Secure</h3>
Securing your ICS systems is not only about protecting them from cyber threats, but also from physical threats. Physical threats can include theft, vandalism, sabotage, fire, flood, or natural disasters. These threats can damage or destroy your ICS equipment and data, as well as harm the people who operate or depend on them.
To ensure your physical assets are secure, you need to implement some measures, such as:
<ul>
<li>Locking and securing the locations where your ICS equipment and data are stored</li>
<li>Restricting access to authorized personnel only and verifying their identity</li>
<li>Installing surveillance cameras and alarms to deter intruders</li>
<li>Having backup power sources and data recovery plans in case of emergencies</li>
<li>Conducting regular inspections and maintenance of your ICS equipment</li>
</ul>
<h2>Protect Your ICS Passwords &amp; Data With TeamPassword</h2>
We've discussed some tips on how to protect your ICS systems from cyber and physical threats. If you're looking for a password management solution designed for teams, give TeamPassword a serious look.
TeamPassword is designed to be so easy to use that your employees won't be tempted to revert to insecure password habits. Divide passwords into groups so that teammates only access what they need, and ensure that your passwords never leave a secure environment. Features like the password generator, reminders, and enforceable 2FA work together to create a practical solution for securing company passwords.&nbsp;
To learn more about how TeamPassword can help you protect your ICS passwords and data,&nbsp;<a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">sign up for a free trial today</a>!

When it comes to protecting your ICS, there are some best practices to follow. Learn more about cybersecurity for industrial control systems in this guide.

When it comes to protecting your ICS, there are some best practices to follow. Learn more about cybersecurity ...

Learn what to do if you forgot your Facebook password and how to use TeamPassword to make sure you never forget a password again.

Learn what to do if you forgot your Facebook password and how to use TeamPassword to make sure ...

What To Do If You Forgot Your Old Facebook Login

What To Do If You Forgot Your Old Facebook Login | TeamPassword

In an increasingly digital world, we&rsquo;re switching more and more of our daily lives over to the Internet. While this brave new world is exciting and convenient, it&rsquo;s not without its problems.&nbsp;
The issue of unsafe passwords has been around for a while. But have you ever thought about where and how to store them?
Most of us have several passwords, and we&rsquo;re encouraged to never duplicate them. Some people simply write them all down on a piece of paper &mdash; which is fraught with danger. But others store their passwords electronically.
As you&rsquo;re about to find out, not all electronic systems of password storage are <a href="https://www.teampassword.com/blog/10-things-you-need-to-do-to-keep-passwords-safe" target="_blank" rel="noopener">safe</a>. Here are five of the most dangerous ways to store your passwords.&nbsp;
But before we begin:
Avoid bad idea passwords and dangerous storage methods with TeamPassword. This advanced <a href="https://www.teampassword.com/blog/why-you-need-a-password-manager" target="_blank" rel="noopener">password manager</a> features a selection of security features, including password encryption and two-step verification. Sign up for a <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial" rel="follow">free trial</a> today.&nbsp;

<h2>1. Email</h2>
Have you ever emailed yourself a password to ensure you&rsquo;re never without it? Great idea, right? Actually, emailing yourself your passwords is a really bad idea, and here&rsquo;s why:
<ul>
<li>Emails are usually sent in plain text. Without encryption, your passwords are susceptible if your email account is ever compromised.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Unsafe passwords sent via email often pass through several systems and servers. There&rsquo;ll also be a copy in your sent folder. If someone else can access your email account, your passwords become vulnerable.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Some email platforms store data locally on a drive. If someone steals your computer, phone, or tablet, your passwords become vulnerable.</li>
</ul>
A really bad idea for passwords is to send them via email &mdash; either to yourself or someone else. <a href="https://www.teampassword.com/blog/have-i-been-hacked-how-to-know-for-sure" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hackers </a>and scammers are more resourceful than ever, and they can often steal your information before you realize you&rsquo;ve been compromised.&nbsp;
It&rsquo;s tempting to send a quick email to yourself containing unsafe passwords when you sign up for new online services. For the sake of an extra minute or two, don&rsquo;t give fraudsters easy access to your accounts. Use an encrypted email vault to safeguard all your passwords.&nbsp;
<h2>2. Online Documents</h2>
A lot of people like the convenience of saving crucial information using online document systems such as Google Docs. But this is a bad idea for passwords, as these systems are designed for text &mdash; not sensitive data.
Yes, a password might protect your online document manager from unauthorized access. But what happens if that password is compromised? Many document software platforms don&rsquo;t offer encryption, two-step verification, or even the most basic security measures.&nbsp;
If you use online documents regularly, you&rsquo;re probably accessing your account on a regular basis &mdash; across several devices. What happens if you step away for a moment to buy a coffee, speak to a friend, or use the bathroom?
A criminal can access an unattended online document platform in seconds. And if this happens, it doesn't take a lot of effort to steal your unsafe passwords.&nbsp;
<h2>3. Instant Messaging Service</h2>
Instant messaging services provide us with a convenient way of staying in touch with friends and family. WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and Snapchat were designed for private online conversations &mdash; not for storing passwords.
People who store their passwords on these apps do so because they believe they&rsquo;re fully encrypted. While that&rsquo;s often the case, it&rsquo;s important to remember that instant messaging services are often left open and operating in the background.
Imagine someone picks up your phone while you&rsquo;re not paying attention. If you left your device unlocked, that person would be able to access your password in seconds.
It&rsquo;s always a bad idea when passwords are stored on instant messaging services. By nature, these apps are designed to operate in the background &mdash; alerting you when someone sends a message. And because they&rsquo;re open, anyone with the device in their hand might be able to steal your unprotected passwords.&nbsp;
Don&rsquo;t fall into the trap of utilizing bad ideas for password storage. Sign up for a <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial" target="_blank" rel="noopener">free trial</a> with TeamPassword, and give your unsafe passwords the protection they require.
<h2>4. Online Note-taker</h2>
Developers design online note-takers for everyday lists and reminders. While they&rsquo;re great for creating to-do and shopping lists, they&rsquo;re not so good for storing unsafe passwords.&nbsp;
An app such as Apple Notes is easy to use, accessible, and convenient. But it doesn&rsquo;t offer two-step authentication, encryption, or any sophisticated form of security.&nbsp;
If your computer or mobile device is unlocked, your saved passwords are vulnerable. In many cases, a criminal would simply need to open the app to gain access to your sensitive information.&nbsp;
OK, you might be extra vigilant when it comes to keeping your phone or computer locked. But hackers are resourceful, and they&rsquo;re very good at discovering unsafe passwords. Once they access your phone, any passwords stored in your note-taking app become vulnerable.&nbsp;
<h2>5. On a Non-Password-Protected Device</h2>
Of all the bad ideas for passwords, storing them on non-password-protected devices is about the worst. You might think that your tablet or laptop never leaves your side. But if your device is ever stolen, you&rsquo;ve given the criminals the easiest possible opportunity to access your saved passwords.&nbsp;
If you&rsquo;re determined to store passwords on a physical device &mdash; which is never a good idea &mdash; make sure the device password is a complex combination of letters, numbers, and symbols. And it should contain at least 12 characters.&nbsp;
<h2>Use TeamPassword for Extra Protection</h2>
Remembering and safely storing a dozen or more passwords isn&rsquo;t a simple task. By locking away all your passwords in a digital vault, you get maximum protection and easy access.&nbsp;
TeamPassword offers a range of <a href="https://www.teampassword.com/security" target="_blank" rel="noopener">security features</a> &mdash; designed to keep your passwords safe. Offering two-step authentication and encryption, this powerful protection system solves the problem of unsafe passwords with ease. Sign up for a <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial" target="_blank" rel="noopener">free trial</a> to see these exciting features for yourself.&nbsp;

Storing passwords inappropriately can leave you open to fraud and theft. Avoid these storage methods at all costs. | TeamPassword Blog

Storing passwords inappropriately can leave you open to fraud and theft. Avoid these storage methods at all costs. ...

Top 5 Dangerous Ways to Store Your Passwords

So you think hackers have stolen your password? You're not the only one. 
Perhaps you've noticed strange activity on your email account or frequent pop-ups on your computer. Perhaps it's just a hunch. 
But how can you know&nbsp;for sure?
There are many warning signs that you've been the victim of a data hack:
<ul>
<li>Your device is slower than normal.</li>
<li>You use more data than normal.</li>
<li>Videos take longer to load.</li>
<li>You received an email notification about a password change you didn't make.</li>
<li>An online account no longer accepts your password.</li>
</ul>
However, hackers can steal your passwords and identity&nbsp;without you ever knowing. That's why it's so difficult to tell if you're the victim of a hack.
This guide will help you work out if hackers have stolen your information and tell you how to stop it from happening again.&nbsp;
Prevent hackers from stealing your data by incorporating TeamPassword into your tech stack. This password manager for teams comes with a range of security features like two-step verification and password encryption.&nbsp;<a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sign up for a free trial</a>&nbsp;today.&nbsp;

<h2>Have I Been Hacked? How Do I Know?</h2>
There are various ways to tell whether hackers have access to your information:
<ul>
<li>Look for unusual activity on your account. This activity includes logins to your social media accounts from unfamiliar locations or mass messages sent from your email account.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Look for security emails from account providers that warn about failed login attempts or password changes you didn't make.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
<li>Look for changes in performance on the devices, apps, and websites you use. For example, see if videos take longer to buffer than normal.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Look at your browser's password manager (if you use one) and check that nobody has changed these credentials.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
All the above can be a guessing game. You might have a feeling that you're the victim of a hack but don't know for sure. 
Checking a stolen password list like "Have I Been Pwned" clears up some of the confusion. This tool searches across multiple data breaches &mdash; when hackers take stolen passwords and usernames and post them online &mdash; to see if cybercriminals have compromised your personal information. 
Here's how to use this stolen password list:
<ol>
<li>Enter your email address on the main page.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Click "pwned."</li>
<li>The website will search thousands of databases to see if hackers have stolen your personal information.</li>
<li>If you receive the "Oh no &ndash; Pwned!" message, it means hackers have posted sensitive information associated with your email address (passwords, addresses, phone numbers, etc.) somewhere online.</li>
<li>If you receive the "Good news &ndash; no pwnage found!" message, it means the website could not find your information on the internet.&nbsp;</li>
</ol>
Note: Just because the website can't find your data on the internet, it doesn't mean hackers haven't compromised your personal information.
Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/password-manager-for-small-businesses" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Password Manager for Small Businesses</a>

<h2>Which Passwords Did Hackers Steal?</h2>
Establish which passwords hackers stole in a data breach so you can take quick action. Websites like "Have I Been Pwned"&nbsp;won't&nbsp;tell you which passwords are at risk. You'll only learn whether hackers have compromised the data associated with a particular email address. 
Note: Sometimes, hackers might have access to your email address and other personal information but not your password. It's hard to know for sure.&nbsp;
If hackers have access to your data, it's a good idea to change&nbsp;all passwords&nbsp;associated with the compromised email address. If you use your email address for several online accounts, change the passwords for these services. Updating these passwords might take you a while, and remembering the new passwords leads to additional problems. (Keep reading to find a solution.)
Here are some other tips:
<ul>
<li>When choosing new passwords, use combinations of lowercase letters, uppercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Passwords that use all these elements are stronger than those that don't.</li>
<li>Don't write your passwords down because this increases the risk of identity theft.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
<li>Don't tell anyone your new passwords.</li>
</ul>
Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/the-most-secure-way-to-share-passwords" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Most Secure Way to Share Passwords</a>.

<h2>How Common Is a Data Hack?</h2>
More common than you think. Hackers were responsible for more than 4,000 attacks every day in 2020, and the total number of compromised records exceeded 37 billion. That's a 141% increase from 2019. Much of this compromised data appears on the dark web, where cybercriminals use it to facilitate illegal activities such as identity theft and money laundering.&nbsp;
If you have been the subject of a data hack, you are not alone. However, it's important to act quickly to prevent hackers from accessing your personal or financial accounts.&nbsp;
There are other types of cybercrime to consider. Cybercriminals use techniques like phishing, where they impersonate people online and trick victims into handing over their personal information. Phishing now accounts for more than 80% of all cybersecurity incidents, and criminals steal $17,700 every minute in these attacks.&nbsp;

<h2>What Kind of Information Do Hackers Steal?</h2>
Hackers steal all kinds of personal and financial information:
<ul>
<li>Names</li>
<li>Email addresses</li>
<li>Usernames</li>
<li>Passwords</li>
<li>Addresses</li>
<li>Phone numbers</li>
<li>Bank account details</li>
<li>Credit card numbers</li>
<li>Social Security numbers</li>
<li>Insurance information&nbsp;</li>
<li>IRS information</li>
<li>Photos</li>
<li>Private message</li>
<li>SMS messages</li>
</ul>
Nothing is off-limits for hackers, and these criminals go to great lengths to steal your data. Once they have access to the information above, hackers can transfer money from your bank accounts, use your identity to apply for financing, and damage your credit file.&nbsp;
Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/the-scariest-data-breaches-of-all-time" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Scariest Data Breaches of All Time</a>.
TeamPassword is the best password manager for teams. Features include two-step verification, password encryption, easy password sharing, and more.&nbsp;<a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Get a free trial now</a>&nbsp;and learn how TeamPassword keeps you safe online.&nbsp;

<h2>Have I Been Hacked? How to Stay Safe.</h2>
There are several ways to improve online security and prevent hackers from accessing your personal information:
<ul>
<li>Use the latest security software and apps when using devices and browsing the internet.</li>
<li>Carry out regular risk assessments where you evaluate your security software.</li>
<li>Back up personal data to a reputable cloud service instead of keeping it on your device.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Don't share personal information with other people.</li>
<li>Create a security management strategy for your organization and share it with all team members.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
Using a password manager is another way to stay safe online. The best ones encrypt your online passwords so hackers can't access these credentials, and you can keep passwords in a secure cloud-based vault and not have to remember them. There are various password managers online, including free ones available through most internet browsers, but not all tools are the same.&nbsp;
If you work alongside a team, consider TeamPassword. It's the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.teampassword.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">password manager for teams</a>&nbsp;that require world-class security and performance. This all-in-one password solution helps teams like yours store, manage, and share passwords in the safest way possible.&nbsp;

<h2>How Can TeamPassword Help?</h2>
TeamPassword prevents hackers from stealing your organization's most sensitive data with an incredible range of password management features. Enterprises of all sizes use TeamPassword to manage passwords, including tech startups, digital marketing agencies, creative agencies, and software and development teams.
Here are some&nbsp;<a href="https://teampassword.com/features" target="_blank" rel="noopener">TeamPassword features</a>&nbsp;that prevent situations involving a stolen password:
<ul>
<li>Random password generation that creates unique passwords for websites.</li>
<li>Two-step password verification.</li>
<li>Activity and logging tools so you can discover who has access to password management features.</li>
<li>Secure encryption technology.</li>
<li>Email notifications about password management actions.</li>
<li>Passwords stored securely in one place. </li>
</ul>
<h2>Final Word</h2>
If you're looking for the answer to the question, "Have I been hacked?" it's difficult to know for sure. Preventing hackers from compromising your data in the first place provides a better resolution. TeamPassword lets you store and manage passwords in a secure environment and minimize the effects of a stolen password so you can avoid hackers stealing your data and continue to collaborate on team projects.&nbsp;
With features like password encryption, two-step authentication, and random password generation, TeamPassword is the best password management solution for teams that want to improve online security.&nbsp;<a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sign up for a free trial</a>&nbsp;now.

Have I been hacked? Here's how to check if you have and learn how to stop hackers from stealing your data. | TeamPassword Blog

Have I been hacked? Here's how to check if you have and learn how to stop hackers from ...

TeamPassword Blog

Browse our carefully created articles about Information Security, Password Management, Product Information, and Modern Business, all written with your team's safety and success in mind.

Most popular articles

Password Management

May 4, 2023 ∙ 10 min read

What is password encryption and how does it work?

What To Do If You Forgot Your Old Facebook Login | TeamPassword

Top 5 Dangerous Ways to Store Your Passwords

Have I Been Hacked? How to Know for Sure.

Cybersecurity

October 22, 2023 ∙ 9 min read

ChatGPT and Cybersecurity: Risks, Potential Benefits & More

Cybersecurity

October 18, 2023 ∙ 9 min read

Cybersecurity for Nonprofits: Keeping Your Nonprofit Secure

Password Management

October 8, 2023 ∙ 4 min read

What is a Password Generator?

Cybersecurity

September 28, 2023 ∙ 10 min read

Cybersecurity for Utilities: Common Threats & Best Practices

Cybersecurity

September 25, 2023 ∙ 7 min read

Passkey vs. WebAuthn: What's the Difference?

Cybersecurity

September 24, 2023 ∙ 11 min read

Cybersecurity for Industrial Control Systems: Best Practices

The Password Manager for Teams

Product

Support

Channels

Legal