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

It's the 21st century. Our data is online, and hackers are constantly improving their craft. It's never been more important to be sure that your team is doing everything in their power to protect your business. There are plenty of resources to help you stay informed and keep up with the latest cybersecurity trends, but how do you turn that information into something useful and get your team involved? Here are a few tips that can help.
<h2>The benefits of a security-aware culture</h2>
When it comes to cyberattacks, employees are the first line of defense. Lack of securing your business can lead to data loss, corruption, and theft. In 2021, there were <a href="https://iapp.org/news/a/record-number-of-data-breaches-in-2021/#:~:text=Last%20year%20saw%20the%20highest,2017's%20previous%20record%20of%201%2C506.">1,862</a> security breaches, up 68% compared to 2020. Cybercrime costs the world economy $600 billion annually and is set to cost <a href="https://cybersecurityventures.com/hackerpocalypse-cybercrime-report-2016/">10.5 trillion</a> by 2025. These stats, and others compiled by <a href="https://parachutetechs.com/2022-cyber-attack-statistics-data-and-trends/" title="Parachute 2022 cyber attack statistics data and trends" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Parachute</a>, are shocking and paint a clear picture - now is the time to care about cybersecurity.&nbsp;
Nobody wants to be a victim. Thankfully, cyber-attacks are preventable. Invest in your business by making your team aware of how crucial it is to take cybersecurity seriously.&nbsp;
<h2>What to teach your team about cyber security</h2>
<h3>1 - Social Engineering (Phishing)</h3>
Social engineering --also known as phishing --- refers to many psychological manipulation attacks that manipulate team members into sharing sensitive information or installing malicious software. Social engineering can be tough to identify, especially if you don't know much about it. Even government employees and multinational professionals fall prey.
Criminals often use email to launch phishing attacks, but they can also use text, social media, phone calls, and other communication methods. Phishing attacks often involve criminals impersonating someone else, such as a cousin, Nigerian prince, or even your boss, to trick employees into revealing sensitive data.
Teach your team to check and double-check where emails are coming from, especially if they seem out of character. If the email contains a link, DON'T CLICK IT. Criminals play off of peoples' habit of clicking links right away. Instead, encourage your team to hover over the link and check the URL first. If it looks fishy, it probably is. Unsure? Ask. Pick up the phone and ask the sender if the email came from them. That's old-school 2FA.
So next time you get an email from a secret admirer at work or promotion by email, give it a second thought. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
<h3>2 - Brute Force Attacks</h3>
When hackers reach a site that requires a login, they use automated tools to crawl through it, trying username and password combinations until they find a match. Weak usernames and passwords, like those that use a company's name or employee's nickname, give attackers half the information they need to hack your credentials.&nbsp;
Encourage your team to use <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/best-types-of-usernames-username-ideas-to-make-your-logins-more-secure">unique usernames</a> and a <a href="https://teampassword.com/password-generator">password generator</a> to make their login credentials more secure. Automated hacking tools are less likely to crack credentials that randomly combine letters, numbers, and characters. But there's more you can do to protect your site!
Using captcha technology, such as Google ReCaptcha, which helps distinguish humans from computers., and <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/password-manager-with-2fa">two-step authorization</a> (2FA) further slows down brute force attacks, often stopping them in their tracks.&nbsp;
Logins are the gate to your data; they need to be protected at all costs.
<h3>3 - Good Password Management&nbsp;</h3>
Most company data is stored in different software and online tools secured by logins. How you manage and share these logins is another key to online security. Most password managers only gatekeep personal records and require installation and configuration. <a href="https://teampassword.com/pricing">TeamPassword</a> was designed with ease of use and collaboration in mind. Not only can TeamPassword users store their personal logins securely, but they can also quickly and safely share logins with teams.
Good password managers keep your data safe by encrypting your logins the moment they are saved before transmitting them to a server for storage so that even the company managing your passwords can't see them.&nbsp;
TeamPassword, like many password managers, offers a <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">14-day free trial</a> so you and your team can better protect your data without delay.&nbsp;
<h2>How should you teach them?</h2>
Not a cyber security expert? Thanks to the internet, we have access to many tools for education. <a href="https://www.wizer-training.com/">Wizer</a> is an online tool that provides security awareness training. It also includes real-life stories and examples of what happens when you don't take cybersecurity seriously. The starter plan is free, but they also offer monthly and yearly plans for more features.&nbsp;
At TeamPassword, we offer <a href="https://calendly.com/teampassword/teampassword-demo">onboarding calls</a> with our customers, and we go over the basics of password security and walk you through the product. Don't have time? Please share this article with your team so that they can educate themselves. Anything is better than nothing.
Cybersecurity is important. Teaching your team about cybersecurity can decrease the likelihood and impact of a data breach, which keeps us all safer.

Your team needs to understand cybersecurity to protect your business. And it's your job to teach them. These tips tell you what and how.

It's the 21st century. Our data is online, and hackers are constantly improving their craft. It's never been ...

Cybersecurity is the Most Important Topic for Teams

It's the 21st century. Our data is online, and hackers are constantly improving their craft. It's never been more important to be sure that your team is doing everything in their power to protect your business. There are plenty of resources to help you stay informed and keep up with the latest cybersecurity trends, but how do you turn that information into something useful and get your team involved? Here are a few tips that can help.

Cybersecurity: The Most Important Topic Your Team Can Learn About This Year

<h2>A New Employment Landscape</h2>
Let&rsquo;s face it; COVID-19 has permanently changed the world that we live in and how we work.&nbsp;
One of the most significant impacts has been a restructuring of the traditional &ldquo;office.&rdquo; In Findstack&rsquo;s &ldquo;The Ultimate List of Remote Work Statistics for 2022&rdquo; (Feb. 3, 2022), Jack Steward notes that during the pandemic, just under 60% of the US workforce worked remotely (<a href="https://www.northone.com/" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">NorthOne</a>) and that 16% of companies are now 100% remote (<a href="https://resources.owllabs.com/state-of-remote-work/2020" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Owl Labs</a>).
Steward&rsquo;s data suggests that COVID-19 isn&rsquo;t all to blame. Younger generations have different work preferences. The uptick in remote work began as early as 2017, and 69% of millennials polled in a CBRE study said they would prefer a remote work option to other more traditional benefits.
Whatever the cause, governments are taking action. Globally, legislation is being passed to protect remote workers. In Ireland, a European tech hub, legislation has been introduced that will require employers to have a formal remote work policy. While other countries, including Argentina, Belgium, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, Portugal, Russia, Spain, and Turkey, have already made temporary COVID-19 measures related to remote work permanent.&nbsp;
Remote work isn&rsquo;t just a trend - it&rsquo;s the future. In an Upwork survey cited by Steward, managers predicted that by 2028 73% of all departments will have remote workers. For businesses, waiting isn&rsquo;t an option. They must prepare for the remote work reality now.
<h2>Why Employees Want to Work Remotely</h2>
Some companies are pushing for a full return to in-person attendance at the office but are meeting fierce resistance from employees. In Findstack&rsquo;s list of remote work statistics, the number one reason people gave for wanting to work remotely was &ldquo;work-life balance.&rdquo; The desire is so strong that 99% of people surveyed by Buffer said that if given a choice, they would choose to work remotely in some capacity for the rest of their lives.&nbsp;
<h3>Flexibility</h3>
There are many reasons why employees are drawn to remote work. In his Forbes article &ldquo;These Will Be Fast-Growing Trends in 2022&rdquo; (Dec. 19, 2021), Jack Kelly highlights that employees are drawn to remote work because it enables them to choose where they live and when they work. This flexibility is attractive to parents, digital nomads, and others that require it. In general, workers are now more willing to try new careers that fit their lifestyle rather than fit their lifestyle around a career.
<h3>Financial Gain</h3>
There&rsquo;s a financial component as well. According to Findstack, working remotely can save the average worker $7,000 per year on transportation, food, and childcare. In contrast, they are earning $4,000 more than their in-office colleagues. A net difference of $11,000!
Better work-life balance, career flexibility, and strong financial incentives are powerful forces for employers to fight against. So don&rsquo;t fight against remote work; embrace it.
<h2>Why Businesses Should Embrace Remote Work</h2>
Companies that embrace remote work can reap significant rewards beyond making their employees happier. A recent study by Stanford suggests remote workers earn $2,000 more in profit for companies than their in-office colleagues due to their increased productivity and minutes worked.
Employees are and will continue to be on the move. Brian Kropp and Emily Rose McRae, in their Harvard Business Review article &ldquo;11 Trends that Will Shape Work in 2022 and Beyond&rdquo; (Jan. 13, 2022), suggest that employee turnover will continue to rise. New attitudes and expectations about work and careers, coupled with less social pressure to stay, mean more employees are reentering the job market. With many employers offering remote options, it is becoming more difficult for businesses to hold onto their high-end talent. This is why, in an IWG study cited by Steward, 64% of recruiters said that being able to pitch a work-from-home policy helps them find high-quality talent.
Employees are looking for flexibility. Businesses prepared to offer remote work options stand to gain valuable talent in this new market. Those that don&rsquo;t will lose out.
<h2>What Risks Does Remote Work Present</h2>
There are many benefits to remote work, but every opportunity comes with risks. Employers are wary of turning the dial completely, and for good reasons. Beyond logistical considerations, remote work can make a business more vulnerable to cyberattacks and negatively impact productivity. 
<h3>Remote Work Can Be Less Secure</h3>
Having workers work remotely opens businesses of all sizes to certain security risks. It is far easier to protect sensitive data when employees are in the office using an employer-issued device on their employer&rsquo;s server.
In her blog article &ldquo;Most Common Remote Work Security Risks in 2021&rdquo; (July 22, 2021) for Heimdal Security, Biana Soare lists several significant risks, including the increased use of unsafe Wi-Fi networks, the use of personal devices for work, and unencrypted file sharing.
One area of particular concern, according to Soare, is passwords. Weak passwords, frequently used passwords, and repeat passwords make even secure environments vulnerable. At the same time, their use in unsecure environments can be catastrophic.&nbsp;
This is why, in a survey by OpenVPN, 54% of IT professionals considered remote workers a greater security risk than traditional workers.
<h3>Remote Work Can Impact Workflow</h3>
Remote workers face several new hurdles to do their jobs. Many have to navigate time zones and find accessing the tools and information they need challenging. Findstack&rsquo;s list of remote work statistics states that 17% of workers cited &ldquo;the lack of communication and collaboration&rdquo; as the most significant challenge associated with remote work.&nbsp;
Employees in the modern workplace can&rsquo;t just meet at the water cooler or drop into an office when they need an answer to a question or access to information. While modern means of communication are convenient, delays waiting for a response can negatively impact productivity.&nbsp;
<h2>How Businesses Can Prepare for Remote Work</h2>
Businesses that want to take advantage of this new reality need to develop remote work policies that foster a creative and flexible work environment, establish robust cybersecurity protocols, and provide their employees with the resources they need to succeed.&nbsp;
<h3>Personnel</h3>
Businesses need to maintain regular contact with their employees and set aside time for teammates to interact unrelated to work. Employers should also encourage employees to work set hours and schedule their time to prevent overworking and employee burnout.&nbsp;
<h3>Cybersecurity</h3>
Businesses should train their employees on proper cybersecurity measures to address cybersecurity concerns. And, if possible, provide remote workers with company-owned devices pre-installed with cybersecurity software.&nbsp;
Businesses should also insist that all workers use a companywide password manager to improve security and productivity. Password managers encrypt user passwords and store them in one place, eliminating the need for vulnerable spreadsheets or unsafe sharing practices. Multi-factor authentication and secure single-sign-on (SSO) further enhance login security. The latter allows IT admins to adjust permissions to control access.
<h3>Tools and Information</h3>
Finally, it is the responsibility of employers to make sure that their remote workers have access to the tools and information that they need to do their job. In her Forbes article &ldquo;5 Common Problems Plaguing Remote Workers And What to do About Them,&rdquo; Alina Clark recommends that employers invest in and maintain a collection of software tools for employees that can be accessed remotely.
<h2>TeamPassword Makes Remote Work Simple and Secure</h2>
TeamPassword is a password manager perfectly suited for remote work. The <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial" rel="follow">TeamPassword platform</a> allows users to create both private and shared logins that are locally encrypted and host-proof. Once created, logins can easily be shared on teams or with the entire organization.&nbsp;
<h3>Easy Access</h3>
Unlike a spreadsheet or localized databases, <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial" rel="follow">TeamPassword</a> is accessible from any device. Employees can access TeamPassword from mobile, regardless of their operating system, desktop app, or browser extensions. In seconds, users can log in and access the passwords they need - when they need them. This ease-of-access means team members stay in the flow without unnecessary interruption.
<h3>Secure</h3>
Employees can access the tools they need, when they need them, while keeping your business safe. TeamPassword&rsquo;s <a href="https://www.teampassword.com/pricing" rel="follow">all-inclusive plans</a> come fully equipped with a <a href="https://www.teampassword.com/password-generator" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">robust password generator</a>, <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/password-manager-with-2fa" title="Password Manager with 2fa" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">2-step verification</a>, and Google <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/what-is-sso" title="What is SSO?" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">SSO</a>. These security screens, our frequent vulnerability sweeps and backend fraud detection protect your business no matter where your employees are working.
TeamPassword&rsquo;s blend of accessibility and security makes it the most remote work-friendly password manager on the market. Don&rsquo;t believe me? Try it for yourself for <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial" rel="follow">for 14-days - free!</a>.&nbsp;
<h2>Remote Work Is Here to Stay</h2>
Waiting for remote work to go away isn&rsquo;t just ill-advised; it would be downright foolhardy. The research is clear; remote work is here to stay. Prepare for the future of your business and begin developing a remote work plan today. And remember, there are tools out there, like TeamPassword, that can help.

The employment landscape has changed, remote work is here to stay. Businesses that accept this reality and plan accordingly can prosper.

The employment landscape has changed dramatically in just a few years. Employees are demanding remote work options, and ...

Remote Work Isn’t Just a Trend - It’s the Future

The employment landscape has changed dramatically in just a few years. Employees are demanding remote work options, and governments are beginning to enact remote work legislation. It’s now on businesses to respond. There are risks to consider, but companies can reap the rewards by allowing remote work if they plan correctly. And they’d better do it because remote work isn’t just a trend - it’s the future.

Do you have to store client passwords? Of course, you do! The need to share login information is a reality of the modern workplace regardless of industry. As more companies move to flexible or fully remote work environments the tension between security and the ease of sharing passwords within a team is a growing concern. But why should you have to choose between the two? TeamPassword doesn&rsquo;t think you should! That&rsquo;s why we&rsquo;ve created and continue to improve our password manager: one that is easy to use, flexible, and secure.

<h2>Freelancer Flexibility for Future Growth</h2>
The shift towards hiring external talent was already underway before Covid, but the pandemic has increased the trend at a startling rate. A recent Forbes article by Senior Contributor Edward Segal outlines the trend, breaking down results from a study by Upwork. This study shows that there was a 22% increase in the use of freelancers from 2019 to 2020, and their use isn&rsquo;t slowing down! Many employees prefer the flexibility and individual control that freelance work brings. As many as 20% of employees could become freelance workers. This dramatic change means that companies need to start rethinking their workflow and prepare to utilize independent talent and freelancers. If they don&rsquo;t, Forbes suggests that companies will miss out on some of the most highly skilled professionals.&nbsp;

<h2>Save Time - Securely</h2>
TeamPassword makes it easy for account managers to add and remove freelancers to teams or projects. No more unsecure spreadsheets or trying to track down the account holder to get the login information that you need now. A recent survey of our customers suggests that the average worker spends 7 hours a month logging in to accounts - 7 hours! - that&rsquo;s almost a full day&rsquo;s work. TeamPassword reduces the friction between team members to give everyone on the team access to the accounts they need, when they need them.
To better understand how we do it, check out some of the blog articles below. TeamPassword regularly releases important, relevant information about how your employees can work on teams securely and with ease. Here are some headlines and summaries of recent posts.

<h3>Build Client Trust! - How to store client social media passwords correctly</h3>
Onboarding clients safely isn&rsquo;t just about legal compliance - it&rsquo;s about building trust. That's why you need to learn <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/how-to-store-client-social-media-passwords-correctly" rel="follow">how to store client social media passwords correctly</a>. If your customers know they&rsquo;re in safe hands, then they&rsquo;re less likely to look elsewhere. TeamPassword&rsquo;s minimalist UI makes it easy for your clients to navigate and enter the required information, while keeping their information protected within our secure environment.

<h3>Get Creative! - Sharing Adobe Cloud credentials with teammates</h3>
Adobe is at the heart of most businesses, especially creative agencies. But for small businesses or cash-strapped startups, their robust tools can be cost-prohibitive. Please note that sharing Adobe credentials is against the company&rsquo;s terms of use. This article provides an overview of some of the most used Adobe tools and ways in which your employees can <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/sharing-adobe-cloud-credentials-with-teammates" rel="follow">share Adobe Cloud credentials with teammates</a>.

<h3>Engaging in Safe Online Communities - Sharing social media credentials with teammates</h3>
Social media is a pillar of modern marketing strategy. It is essential to promote your brand and engage with your social media community. Often, campaigns require <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/sharing-social-media-credentials-with-teammates" rel="follow">sharing social media credentials with teammates</a>. However, social media accounts are also high-risk digital assets that could be valuable targets for attackers. Password reuse or unsafe password sharing practices can lead to catastrophic consequences for you and your business. TeamPassword can protect those logins while giving an entire team access to the account.

Do you store client passwords? Of course you do! The need to share login information is a reality of the modern workplace regardless

Do you have to store client passwords? Of course, you do! The need to share login information is ...

Prepare for a Future with Freelancers

Do you have to store client passwords? Of course, you do! The need to share login information is a reality of the modern workplace regardless of industry. As more companies move to flexible or fully remote work environments the tension between security and the ease of sharing passwords within a ...

As remote work goes through its fastest growth possibly in history, businesses are having to make some adjustments. Entire payment structures are redefined, and even salaries are put into question. As they transition, they'll have to face whole new processes in onboarding, hiring additional staff, and even paying overseas workers.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;
If your own agency is going through this and you plan to hire and work with staff remotely, you should develop a clear remote-pay policy. To accomplish that, you'll have to deal with understanding foreign transaction fees and international remittance. First, we'll explain the two terms, and then we'll talk about how having a remote workforce will affect how you pay your staff.&nbsp;
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
If you are looking for a way to share logins with an outside agency, using a password manager can mitigate the risk of unauthorized sharing and access. TeamPassword is an affordable password management solution for teams to share company credentials securely and efficiently. <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">Sign up for a 14-day free trial today</a>!
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
<h2>What is a foreign transaction fee?</h2>
A foreign transaction fee is an amount charged by a financial institution like a credit card company or bank to make a payment or purchase in a foreign country or currency. You may also find them under "purchase transaction fees" or "foreign currency transaction fees."
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
These types of fees apply both when you're abroad making purchases, withdrawals, and payments and when you send money to a foreign account.&nbsp;
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
<h2>What is an international remittance?</h2>
An international or foreign remittance is a money transfer from one bank to another in a different country. This type of transfer often occurs between family members in other locations. Still, it can also be between friends or from a company to an employee.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
<h2>Remote work and international hiring</h2>
Though the post-pandemic remote work boom has increased how often companies hire international talent, this hasn't entirely facilitated how those employees are paid. Like local employees, remote workers expect to be paid on time and in the correct currency. So it's your HR team's job to make sure that happens with as few foreign transaction fees as possible on both sides.&nbsp;
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
<h2>How to pay remote employees&nbsp;</h2>
When your remote employees are in the same country as you, this is quite simple: a quick direct deposit will be quick and efficient. But when they're in another country, the options will change. Not only will payment methods be different, expectations for when to expect deposits might change too. In some countries, monthly payments are the norm, while in others biweekly payments are expected on specific pay dates. Finally, the currency in which they receive their payment should be established during the hiring process to avoid any issues.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
<h3>Via direct transfer</h3>
With international employees, an international remittance can be more of a hassle than they're worth. Generally, they're slow and expensive, taking days to show up in the receiving account and always requiring a fee. However, there are times when it will be the best option available, and depending on your banking institution may even be the cheapest option. This will depend mostly on the two countries between which you're making the transaction. 
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
For banks in Europe, you'll need to have your contact's full name, IBAN code, and IBC. For others, the bank will require things like their SWIFT code. Each type of transaction and country will have its own fees so make sure you consult with your bank before moving large sums around.&nbsp;The foreign transaction fees charged during direct transfer can leave both you and your remote staff feeling like the collaboration may not be worth the bother. This frustration can increase tensions and even lead to conflict, so before you start, establish expectations for who will cover those fees and how.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
<h3>Using a payment platform</h3>
Of course, by now you're probably aware that there are many other options for paying your employees than just direct deposit or international remittance. You can also use payment platforms like PayPal, Wise, and Woldremit, and Western Union. Each of these platforms comes with its own benefits and issues which you'll have to weigh to decide whether they're right for you.&nbsp;
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;
For instance, PayPal will charge a small fee of 5% just to transfer to another account, but a much larger one to convert currencies. Worldremit and Wise are great options with relatively small fees but aren't available in all countries and they take a long time to show up in the receiver's bank account. Finally, there's Western Union, but the fees and bureaucracy of going through them is frankly more trouble than it's worth, especially if you plan on doing it every month.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
<h3>Contracting platforms</h3>
So, what about platforms that offer the whole package? We're talking about platforms like Freelancer and Upwork which help with the process of finding, hiring, and paying remote workers. While these platforms do an excellent job for short-term or one-time collaborations, for long-term payment and contracting, they're not the best option. For one, they're generally taking a cut on both sides, often of up to 20%. So, while this method will work for a while, you'll soon have to find an alternative for both parties' sake.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
<h2>How to contract internationally</h2>
So what are your other options besides taking care of every step of hiring and managing staff on your own?
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;
<h3>Hiring a payroll provider</h3>
Of course, there are companies that take care of precisely this type of problem. They're payroll providers that offer the service of paying your employees for you regardless of where they are in the world. You'll manage everything as if it were local, they'll take care of sending payroll out into the world. Whether it works efficiently and with as few costs, as they say, is up for debate, but some have plans of as little as $15 per month.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
<h3>Hiring an international HR service&nbsp;</h3>
Instead of looking for how you can pay online, you can hire a service that works with you personally to hire employees internationally. They'll manage the entire process your local HR team would but with the added understanding of international hiring and tax law.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
<h2>Managing your remote staff's access and security</h2>
While finding talent outside of your home country for your marketing agency is great, there are added risks when you bring anyone onto your team, especially remotely. To start, you're not entirely sure of the security of their connection and how likely they are to be the victim of a cyberattack, thus putting your data at risk. So, how can you onboard and manage your remote workforce safely?
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;
<h3>Use TeamPassword for credential sharing&nbsp;</h3>
Using a tool like <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">TeamPassword</a> will allow you to sleep easy knowing all your credentials are safe whether your staff is working right in your hometown or on the other side of the world. Here are some of the features that make TeamPassword the best option to collaborate and <a href="https://www.teampassword.com/blog/how-to-safely-share-passwords-with-coworkers">share passwords with remote staff</a>.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
<h3>Available on any device and accessible anywhere</h3>
TeamPassword is available for iOS or Android devices and can be downloaded anywhere in the world. If your employees prefer to work directly from their browser, they'll be able to use the extension on Chrome, Safari, or Firefox, accessing all credentials quickly and easily.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
<h3>2-Step verification and activity logs</h3>
Every time your team uses TeamPassword, they'll be asked to go through <a href="https://www.teampassword.com/blog/password-manager-with-2fa">2-Step verification</a>. This allows the tool to know that not only is the device correct, but the user is right as well. This added step for security gives teams extra peace of mind. Additionally, regardless of the distance, you'll always know who has been using your logins, what time, and from where. This activity log is available on-demand as well as via email notifications.&nbsp;
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
<h3>Secure password generator</h3>
As your new team members sign up for tools that will help the whole team, they can use TeamPassword to <a href="https://www.teampassword.com/password-generator">generate secure passwords</a> and share them with the rest of the team all in one go. This means regardless of who creates logins, they'll be both secure and available for everyone who needs them.&nbsp;
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
<h3>High-level security encryption</h3>
So, how does TeamPassword secure your credentials and keep attackers' hands off them? When you create or share logins, TeamPassword hashes, salts, and encrypts your information on your computer and then transmits it to the server using an encrypted connection. TeamPassword's is a <a href="https://www.teampassword.com/security">secure hosting provider</a> with the following international security accreditations:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">ISO 27001</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">SOC 1 and SOC 2/SSAE 16/ISAE 3402 (Previously SAS 70 Type II)</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">PCI Level 1</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">FISMA Moderate</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX).</li>
</ul>
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
If you are looking for a way to share logins with your remote team, using a password manager can mitigate the risk of unauthorized sharing and access. Use TeamPassword as your password management solution and share company credentials securely and efficiently. <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">Sign up for a 14-day free trial today</a>!

We'll explain how to deal with foreign transaction fees, international remittance, and how to pay your remote staff force. | TeamPassword

First, we'll explain how to deal with foreign transaction fees and international remittance and then we'll talk about ...

Paying Remote Staff: Understanding foreign transaction fees

First, we'll explain how to deal with foreign transaction fees and international remittance and then we'll talk about how having a remote workforce will affect how you pay your staff.

Paying your remote staff: understanding foreign transaction fees and international remittance

Suppose you haven't fully transitioned into remote work by now. In that case, you might be considering it as you weigh the pros and cons of the pandemic work model. Giving up an office space (and the monthly rent that comes with it) could be an enticing reason to jump on possibly the largest growing work trend of our time. But, what are some of the drawbacks? On top of depriving your employees of shoulder-to-shoulder interaction, opportunities to stand out and get promotions, and more, you're also increasing your entire company's chances of a cyberattack.&nbsp;
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;
This possible threat, of course, is no reason to throw out the idea altogether. It may just take some analyzing and planning. Still, you can implement some practices to make managing your remote workforce more effortless and more secure all in one go. First, let's go through what managing your remote team will mean, the challenges and benefits to look for, and how to <a href="https://www.teampassword.com/blog/10-easy-cybersecurity-strategies-for-small-businesses">manage cybersecurity</a> while working apart.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
If you are looking for a way to share logins with your remote team, using a password manager can mitigate the risk of unauthorized sharing and access. TeamPassword is an affordable password management solution for teams to share company credentials securely and efficiently. <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">Sign up for a 14-day free trial today</a>!
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;
<h2>What is remote workforce management?</h2>
Because of the recent change in work dynamic since the pandemic, companies have had to face the fact that managing remote teams is very different from leading on-site teams. <a href="https://www.teampassword.com/blog/5-tips-to-increase-security-for-your-remote-workforce">Remote workforce management</a> is all about flexibility, trust, and clear communication.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;
So, what practices will you have to implement to handle your fully remote or hybrid work model?
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Communication: establish channels for personal and work communication and implement tools so employees can also connect with each other easily.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Process automation: use <a href="https://www.teampassword.com/blog/7-tips-for-marketing-project-management">project management</a> software to create, automate, and track processes easier without becoming the micromanaging boss everyone hates to hear from.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Supplying work set-ups: Not everyone has a proper work set-up at home. Providing the elements they need to focus and carry out their tasks properly will pay off as employees feel more comfortable.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Regularly scheduled training and feedback sessions: just because your team is out of sight doesn't mean they don't need you. Schedule times to chat to allow insecurities, questions, or concerns to come up. These practices also increase retention as they get ahead of conflict and discomfort before it becomes unbearable.</li>
</ul>
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
<h3>Benefits of a remote workforce</h3>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Improved employee engagement</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Increased productivity</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Cost and time savings for employees by not commuting&nbsp;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Higher employee satisfaction and retention</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">More flexibility</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Fewer sick days as employees work and rest at home</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">More business continuity without colleague distractions</li>
</ul>
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
<h3>Drawbacks of a remote workforce</h3>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Lack of supervision</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Less access to information</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Social isolation and lack of team building possibilities</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Fewer collaboration opportunities</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Decreased spontaneity and hallway brainstorming</li>
</ul>
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;
<h2>What to know about remote work management&nbsp;</h2>
As opposed to what you might believe going into remote work management, the practice is a lot less about being strict than it is about seeing your employees as individuals. In the same way that teachers address students with their individual needs, managers must understand team members' strengths and weaknesses. Additionally, they should realize that a remote work model might heighten both. Get ahead of it by brainstorming possible challenges that may arise and addressing them with employees in small groups or one-on-one.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;
<h2>Cybersecurity tips to remember when working remotely</h2>
Work management and collaboration isn't the only thing you'll see change with a remote team. You'll also have to face a series of new risks that would have been mostly under control in an office setting. Cybersecurity, for one, is an element that many businesses, especially small agencies, overlook when sending their teams home to work.&nbsp;
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Why does this happen? Well, not everyone is prepared to fight off cyberattacks from their shared-living Wifi, for instance. So, as you prepare to take on new work models, make sure your remote work policy includes how everyone will work to keep data (both work and private) safe and secure. Here are some cybersecurity tips you can start using today:
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;
<h3>Increase network security with a VPN</h3>
When your employees work from home, a coffee shop, or an airport, they often won't be able to choose the security of their networks. In fact, they'll probably sometimes have to work from a public network, opening them up to tracking and snooping from outside entities. Investing in a company VPN will allow your employees the security of encrypting their internet traffic.&nbsp;
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;
<h3>Improve password security</h3>
Phishing and password-stealing are two <a href="https://www.teampassword.com/blog/five-most-common-password-attacks">common password attacks</a> that small marketing agencies suffer both when working on-site and remotely. Of course, <a href="https://www.teampassword.com/blog/how-to-safely-share-passwords-with-coworkers">sharing passwords</a> remotely will also extend the time it takes to pinpoint and de-escalate a situation if an attack does happen. So keeping your passwords safe will become essential when employees are working in different locations. To improve password security, use a tool like TeamPassword.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
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TeamPassword is an affordable password management solution. <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">Sign up for a 14-day free trial today</a>!
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;
<h3>Separate and lock your devices</h3>
Include the practice of separating and locking devices in your remote work policy. While this may seem simple, it can be easy to forget when you're taking care of accomplishing your day-to-day workload. That's why it's key to ensure your agency uses separate devices for work and personal life and enables automatic locking of their device. This way, when they're out getting a coffee and have to pop into the bathroom, their device is still secure. A reasonable amount of time is about 30 seconds for mobile and a few minutes for a laptop.
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<h2>How to keep remote teams secure as staff grows&nbsp;</h2>
All of these practices are easy to implement and work well for companies all around the world. You've learned how to start transitioning to a secure remote agency with talent in different locations. Now, moving forward, your marketing agency team is probably going to continue to grow. So, how can you maintain that level of security regardless of the size of your team?&nbsp;
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;
<h3>Use TeamPassword</h3>
TeamPassword is a great way to manage the access for lots of marketing staff. It comes with benefits and features that keep everyone in the loop, efficient onboarding, and eliminates <a href="https://www.teampassword.com/blog/5-bad-password-habits-to-break-immediately">bad password habits</a>. Here are some of the ways remote marketing agencies use TeamPassword to keep attackers away:
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
<h4>Implementing 2-step verification</h4>
Even though employees' are enabling auto-lock on their devices, when they sign into TeamPassword to search for or use a new password, they'll have to go through <a href="https://www.teampassword.com/blog/password-manager-with-2fa">2-step verification</a>. This practice ensures that the device is authorized to use the login credential and that the user is who they should be. This secure protocol keeps marketing agencies extra secure. They work with dozens of online tools, many of which hold payment information and other sensitive data.&nbsp;
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;
<h4>Running regular vulnerability sweeps&nbsp;</h4>
You can't get ahead of an attack, right? Wrong. Marketing agencies use TeamPassword's reports from frequent vulnerability sweeps to learn about viruses or possible risks that open up opportunities to steal your data. These sweeps keep your agency on a proactive approach so you can avoid an attack instead of reacting to it.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;
<h4>Sharing host-proof and locally encrypted passwords</h4>
As an agency of many creatives and professionals, you'll often have to share passwords and logins to collaborate on work. Whether it's because the tool allows for only one login per company or because there's a new staff member, sharing passwords will become necessary. Marketing agencies with TeamPassword share logins that are hashed, salted, and encrypted locally on their device and then transmitted to the server with an encrypted connection. Once they're received, the receiver's account is verified, and they alone are given access.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
<h4>Accessing Teampassword everywhere</h4>
Unlike a notepad full of login details, which is just inconvenient, or a spreadsheet with credentials, which is unsafe, <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">TeamPassword</a> is accessible from any device. Your agency employees can access team passwords from mobile, regardless of their operating system, desktop app, or even browser extensions. That way, in just a few moments, they can log in, verify, and get the password they need. As a result, they'll continue to work on their projects without interruption and without putting the agency at risk.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;
<h4>Generating secure passwords and sharing within teams</h4>
Brainstorming what password to use that isn't incredibly personal or outright strange is a struggle. On top of that, password requirements for every tool are different. So, when your employees need a quick password that meets requirements and is virtually impossible to guess, TeamPassword generates it for them in a flash. By adding it to any shared groups such as "branding team" or "advertising," the password is automatically shared only with those who need it.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;
Ready to take on remote workforce security? If password management is a security practice you're ready to start now, <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">sign up for a 14-day free trial today</a>!

Let's go through the challenges and benefits for managing a remote team and how to manage cybersecurity while working separately.

Let's go through what managing your remote team will mean, the challenges and benefits to look for, and ...

Remote workforce: 3 cybersecurity things to remember

Let's go through what managing your remote team will mean, the challenges and benefits to look for, and how to manage cybersecurity while working apart.

Dive into these different staff members' roles and job descriptions and see who you need to hire for your business. | TeamPassword

Executive assistant vs. admin professional vs. chief of staff: who do you need to hire? Dive into these ...

Executive Assistant vs. Admin Pro vs. Chief of Staff?

Executive assistant vs. admin professional vs. chief of staff: who do you need to hire? Dive into these different staff members' roles and job descriptions and see who you need to hire.

Executive assistant vs. admin professional vs. chief of staff: who do you need to hire?

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

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 ...

Have I Been Hacked? How to Know for Sure.

Over the last decade, the gig economy boom has allowed professionals worldwide to switch to freelancing and build a network of international clients.&nbsp;
According to Upwork, 1 in 3 US workers engaged in freelance work during 2020. Some of the most successful freelancers earn hundreds of thousands of dollars per year through platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, and Toptal.
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Does your company hire freelancers? How do you <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/should-i-share-data-with-freelancers">share passwords with freelancers</a>? TeamPassword is an affordable password management solution for small businesses, startups, and agencies to share credentials securely with team members and freelancers. <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">Sign up for a 14-day free trial</a> today.
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<h2>10 Successful Freelancers</h2>
Here are ten successful freelancers and what they do. These freelancers have earned their place as experts in their given field with excellent track records&mdash;many have worked with the biggest companies in the world!
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<h3>1. Scott Luscombe - Graphic Designer / Shopify Expert / Website Developer / Copywriter&nbsp; - Canada</h3>
Scott Luscombe is a freelance graphic designer, Shopify expert, website developer, and copywriter from Uxbridge, Canada. He holds a degree in Illustration from Sheridan College and a degree in Marketing from the University of Toronto.
Scott has been a freelancer for most of his professional career and has earned over $500k on Upwork. He has completed over 311 jobs and worked&nbsp;10,956 hours!&nbsp;
Scott's work includes graphic design and branding, illustration and icons, copywriting, website design and development, UX/UI, and printing and packaging. He also provides freelance coaching and consulting. Scott is a Top Rated Upwork Freelancer currently charging $99 per hour for various creative gigs.
Some of Scott's most notable work includes designs for Coca-Cola, the Canadian Cancer Society, Nickelodeon, and Wallet Ninja (to name a few).&nbsp;
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<h3>2. Kathy Edens - Marketing Consultant / Freelance Copywriter - United States</h3>
<a href="https://www.upwork.com/freelancers/~016177d19f0624c1a7?viewMode=1">Kathy Edens is a Top Rated Upwork Freelancer</a> with over $300k platform earnings! Kathy has been self-employed as a marketing consultant and freelance copywriter for almost ten years from her home in Ohio, United States.
She holds a Bachelor of Science in Professional Writing and Psychology from Oregon State University, which she says "...helps me understand how to reach your target audience with words."&nbsp;
Kathy has ghost-written several non-fiction books on various topics, including social entrepreneurship, healthcare, real estate investing, and the cannabis industry, to name a few.
Kathy also writes web content, sales pages, email marketing content, case studies, white papers, brochures, press releases, and more. Kathy's rates start at $86 per hour for her writing and marketing services.
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<h3>3. Koen van Oeveren - UX designer - Netherlands</h3>
Koen van Oeveren is a freelance UI &amp; UX designer from North Brabant, Netherlands, with almost ten years of experience. Koen works with several design agencies in the Netherlands, designing apps, websites, and eCommerce experiences for many international brands.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
Koen holds a Bachelor of Applied Science in Communication and Multimedia Design from Avans University in the Netherlands. Koen's <a href="https://www.koenvo.com/index.html">portfolio website Koenvo</a> was nominated for a <a href="https://www.awwwards.com/sites/koenvo-ui-ux-portfolio">2021 awwwards. Award</a>.
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<h3>4. Pascal Strasche - Product / UX designer - Germany</h3>
Pascal Strasche is a product and UX designer with more than ten years of design experience from Germany. He holds a Master of Arts in Interaction Design and a Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design, both from HAWK University of Applied Sciences and Arts.
For almost a year over 2020/2021, Pascal worked as the sole product designer to design Con Cubo's SaaS tool that helps complex organizations visualize and manage teams. He's also worked with German steel giant XOM Materials to find product solutions to digitalize&nbsp;Germany's steel industry.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
In 2019, Pascal founded Product Design Resources, a growing archive of 800+ design resources, weekly updated for the design community.
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<h3>5. Paul Hunkin - Developer - New Zealand</h3>
Paul Hunkin is a freelance software consultant and developer from Tauranga, New Zealand, but currently living in Portugal.&nbsp;
Paul has over ten years of experience as a software developer with an impressive work history, including Google, NASA, InfoSys, and the Chinese aerospace industry leader COMAC.
He's worked with several early-stage startups designing everything from high-performance big-data systems to complex web applications to 3D rendering engines. He's also built a lot of the foundational code for independent games on Android.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;
Paul is a Top Rated Upwork Freelancer with over $400k in platform earnings. His rates start at $120 per hour for software development. <a href="https://paulh.consulting/">Check out Paul's website</a> for more about his impressive portfolio and work history.
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<h3>6. Jana Galat - Writer / Brand Strategist - Canada</h3>
Jana Galat is a freelance copywriter and brand strategist from Ontario, Canada. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Management and Organizational Studies from King's University College and an Honors in Business Administration from Western University.
Jana has extensive experience writing landing pages, email campaigns, social media ads, and print materials and says, "I am obsessed with creating copy that sells..."
After several years of professional work experience, Jana went freelance in 2019 and has quickly built a reputation as a <a href="https://www.upwork.com/freelancers/~01bfa17a48301876dd">Top Rated Upwork Freelancer</a> with over $70k in platform earnings. Jana's rates start at $100 per hour for copywriting and brand consulting.
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<h3>7. Kate H. - Logo Designer / Branding Expert - United States</h3>
Kate is a freelance professional logo designer and branding expert from Maryland, United States. Kate&nbsp;ran her own green wedding brand which she sold to mywedding.com in 2014, allowing her to focus on helping small&nbsp;businesses figure out what they want (and who they are) and translate that into design.
She holds a Master's degree in Environmental Management from Yale School of The Environment, and a J.D. in environmental law from Pace Law School.&nbsp;
Kate's skillset includes redesigning and updating material to make it easier to understand, building a consistent brand from a simple starting point like a logo, and creating unique logos that guarantee results.
Kate is a Top Rated Upwork Freelancer, and her rates start at $225 per hour. You can find out more about Kate on her <a href="https://www.upwork.com/freelancers/~013ce73876c1c18126" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Upwork profile</a>.
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<h3>8. Marcos Rezende - UX designer - Canada</h3>
Marcos Rezende is a UX Designer from Ontario, Canada, with more than 13 years of experience. Marcos has worked in over 30 industry sectors for multinational organizations in the United States, Canada, Germany, and Brazil.&nbsp;
Some of Marcos' notable projects include apps for Ontario's COVID-19 dashboard, Urban Master Planning collaboration platform, and Reaction (kid's e-learning app), to name a few.&nbsp;
Marcos loves sharing his industry expertise with aspiring UX designers and regularly writes for the popular UX publication Career Foundry. Total recognizes Marcos as part of its "Top 3%" of global freelancer talent&mdash;a title given to elite freelancers in their given field.
We don't have access to Marcos' rates, but the best UX designers on Upwork earn upwards of $100 per hour. As a Toptal Top 3% freelancer, Marcos likely charges $200-$300 per hour.
<a href="https://www.marcosrezende.com/">Marcos Rezende's website</a> was nominated for the prestigious <a href="https://www.awwwards.com/sites/ux-portfolio-marcos-rezende">awwwards.</a> in 2021.
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<h3>9. Tanya Litvinova - UX/UI Designer - United States</h3>
Tanya Litvinova is a freelance UX/UI designer from New York City, United States. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Advertising Design / Communication Design from the Fashion Institute of Technology.
Tanya specializes in product, mobile, and web design as well as user experience flow, research, and validation.
"I have a passion to make the complex simple, shape behavior, design, plan, and strategize. Aiming for the best user experience, all the while balancing the needs of business and technology to create engaging, habit-forming digital products."
Tanya has worked with Fortune 100 &amp; Fortune 500 companies and successfully delivered business-transforming data-driven analytics, responsive BI dashboards, enterprise web apps, and management systems. Some of Tanya's notable clients include KOCH Industries, BlackRock Financial, BCG Group, and FireEye, to name a few.
<a href="https://www.upwork.com/freelancers/~0165035041b26e96df">Tanya is a Top Rated Upwork Freelancer</a> with more than $200k platform earnings. Her current rate starts at $162.50 per hour.
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<h3>10. Guangming Lang - Data Scientist - United States</h3>
Guangming Lang is a freelance data scientist from Michigan, United States. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics from New College of Florida and a Master of Science in Biostatistics from the University of Michigan. Guangming has also completed several Coursera courses in data science and machine learning.
Guangming has been a freelancer since 2013 and has worked across several industries, including fintech, trading, medicine, biotech, advertising, and HR.&nbsp;
Guangming is a Top Rated Upwork Freelancer with over $400k in platform earnings. He's completed 216 jobs on Upwork totaling 3,805 hours! Guangming's current rates start at $200 per hour.
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<h2>Secure Freelancer Workflows With TeamPassword</h2>
No matter how talented or reputable the freelancers and contractors you hire, your company must use secure workflows to protect your digital assets.
Freelancers often need access to shared accounts and tools. Using a <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">password manager</a> is the first step to securing these accounts and platforms. You can also use a password manager to share credentials with employees, clients, and other stakeholders to ensure you never expose raw passwords via email, spreadsheets, chat apps, and other non-secure methods.
<a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">TeamPassword</a> lets you create groups to share access with only those who need it. When they're done, revoke access with a single click. No need to change passwords every time someone leaves the team.
If you do need to change a password, TeamPassword's built-in <a href="https://teampassword.com/password-generator">password generator</a> lets you create secure passwords between 12-32 characters using numbers, letters (uppercase/lowercase), and symbols.
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Ready to onboard clients and freelancers securely with TeamPassword's robust <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">password management solution</a>? <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">Sign up for a free trial</a> to secure your company's digital assets today!

Here are ten successful freelancers and what they do. These freelancers have earned their place as experts in their given field.

Here are ten successful freelancers and what they do. These freelancers have earned their place as experts in ...

10 extremely successful freelancers and what they do

Here are ten successful freelancers and what they do. These freelancers have earned their place as experts in their given field with excellent track records—many have worked with the biggest companies in the world!

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