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://teampassword.com/blog/the-best-ways-to-store-passwords-2023" target="_blank" rel="follow 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://teampassword.com/blog/best-password-managers-for-teams" target="_blank" rel="follow noopener">password manager for teams</a> features a selection of security features, including password encryption and two-step verification. Sign up for a <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">free trial</a> today.&nbsp;
[Table of Contents]
<ul>
<li><a href="#email" rel="follow">Email</a></li>
<li><a href="#Documents" rel="follow">Online Documents</a></li>
<li><a href="#instantmessaging" rel="follow">Instant Messaging Service</a></li>
<li><a href="#onlinenotetaker" rel="follow">Online Note-taker</a></li>
<li><a href="#nonpasswordprotecteddevice" rel="follow">On a Non-Password-Protected Device</a></li>
</ul>

<h2 id="email">1. Email</h2>
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/efPCc2QZQ7C0OT1KeoKe" alt="" width="655" height="88">
We've all been there: struggling to remember a new password and considering emailing it to ourselves for safekeeping. While it might seem convenient, emailing passwords is a terrible security practice with far-reaching consequences. Here's why:
<ul>
<li data-sourcepos="7:3-7:245">Unencrypted Transmission: Emails often travel in plain text, like postcards. Anyone with access to the data stream &ndash; hackers, scammers, or even compromised servers &ndash; could easily intercept the email and steal your password in its entirety.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="9:3-9:33">Multiple Vulnerable Points: Even if the email itself is encrypted, your password is exposed at several stages. It's stored on your device before sending, sits unencrypted on email servers during transit, and resides in your sent folder &ndash; all potential points of entry for attackers.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="11:3-11:248">Local Storage Risks: Many email platforms store data locally on your devices. If your computer, phone, or tablet is stolen or infected with malware, even deleted emails containing passwords might be recoverable, putting your accounts at risk.</li>
</ul>
The ease with which cybercriminals can exploit these vulnerabilities makes emailing passwords a high-stakes gamble. A stolen password could grant them access to your bank accounts, social media profiles, email itself, and more. The <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/cybersecurity-complete-guide" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">damage can be immense</a>, so why risk it for a temporary convenience?

<h2 id="Documents">2. Online Documents</h2>
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/Hh6oH8AzTMSnQFUaPHR9" alt="" width="216" height="235">
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 id="instantmessaging">3. Instant Messaging Service</h2>
Instant messaging (IM) services like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and Snapchat offer a convenient way to communicate, but they are not designed for securely storing passwords. While some IM platforms offer end-to-end encryption for message content, they lack crucial security features necessary for password management.
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.
Here's why storing passwords on IM apps is a security risk:
<ul data-sourcepos="9:1-9:155">
<li data-sourcepos="9:1-9:155">Accessibility on Unlocked Devices: IM apps are designed to run in the background on unlocked devices. This means anyone with physical access to your unlocked phone or computer could potentially view your unencrypted passwords.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="10:1-10:164">Accidental Sharing: A single inadvertent tap or screenshot could send your password to someone unintended, compromising the security of your online accounts.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="11:1-12:0">Limited Security Features: Unlike dedicated password managers, IM applications typically lack features like secure password generation, two-factor authentication, and strong encryption specifically designed to protect passwords.</li>
</ul>
Dedicated password management applications offer robust security features like encryption, secure storage, and auto-fill functionality for logins.
<h2 id="onlinenotetaker">4. Online Note-taker</h2>
While online note-taking applications like Apple Notes offer a convenient platform for managing everyday tasks and reminders, they are demonstrably unsuitable for storing sensitive information, particularly passwords. These platforms, designed for general purpose note-taking, lack the robust security features essential for safeguarding confidential credentials.
Here's why online note-taking apps pose a significant security risk for passwords:
<ul>
<li data-sourcepos="9:3-9:314">Absence of Multi-Factor Authentication: Unlike dedicated password managers, these applications typically do not offer multi-factor authentication (MFA). MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second verification step beyond a simple password, significantly hindering unauthorized access attempts.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="11:3-11:322">Limited Encryption Capabilities: While some note-taking applications may offer basic encryption features, they often fall short of the robust encryption protocols employed by dedicated password management solutions. This weaker encryption leaves sensitive data vulnerable to potential decryption by malicious actors.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="13:3-13:97">Accessibility on Unlocked Devices: Online note-taking apps are designed for ease of use and accessibility. This ease of access translates to a vulnerability. If a user's device remains unlocked and unattended, a perpetrator would only need to access the specific application to view unencrypted passwords.</li>
</ul>
In a world of increasingly sophisticated cyber threats, it is critical to prioritize robust security practices. Online note-taking applications simply do not provide the necessary safeguards for password management. Users are strongly advised to consider secure alternatives, such as dedicated password managers or offline password vaults, to ensure the confidentiality and integrity of their login credentials.
<h2 id="nonpasswordprotecteddevice">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 data-sourcepos="7:1-7:6">Control Your Security and Choose Convenience with TeamPassword</h2>
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/0gCOt5oQBCE1vxckmRZC" alt="The TeamPassword Extension for Chrome lets you sign into any account in seconds" width="828" height="466">
Our digital vault safeguards your passwords with industry-leading AES 256-bit encryption and ironclad two-step authentication. Stop wasting time remembering &ndash; TeamPassword empowers you with secure, one-click logins across all your devices.
<ul>
<li data-sourcepos="9:1-9:157">Divide passwords into groups to share with appropriate team members</li>
<li data-sourcepos="9:1-9:157">Enforce 2FA for all users</li>
<li data-sourcepos="9:1-9:157">View activity logs for all of your records</li>
<li data-sourcepos="9:1-9:157">Use the TeamPassword browser extensions and mobile apps for lightning-fast access everywhere</li>
<li data-sourcepos="9:1-9:157">Save money with affordable plans configured for YOU</li>
</ul>
Don't settle for password purgatory. Take control with TeamPassword. <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Sign up for your FREE trial today</a> and experience the power of effortless security!

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

Have you ever gotten a text message with a code you didn't request? Maybe it was for logging into your bank account or social media profile. If so, you might be a target for a SIM swapping scam.
In this blog post, we'll break down what SIM swapping is, how it works, and how you can protect yourself from this increasingly common threat.
Here are the key things you need to know about SIM swapping:
<ul data-sourcepos="13:1-18:0">
<li data-sourcepos="13:1-13:115">SIM swapping is a scam where a thief takes control of your phone number by transferring it to a new SIM card.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="14:1-14:98">Social engineering and phishing are often used to trick your carrier into making the switch.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="15:1-15:124">Once they have control of your number, attackers can intercept your calls, texts, and two-factor authentication codes.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="16:1-16:221">There are steps you can take to protect yourself from SIM swapping, such as using strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication on all your accounts, and being careful about what information you share online.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="17:1-18:0">If you think you've been a victim of SIM swapping, contact your carrier immediately.</li>
</ul>
<h3 data-sourcepos="19:1-19:19">[Table of Contents]</h3>
<ul data-sourcepos="21:1-28:0">
<li data-sourcepos="21:1-21:23"><a href="#whatissimswapping" rel="follow">What Is SIM Swapping?</a></li>
<li data-sourcepos="22:1-22:29"><a href="#howdoessimswappingwork" rel="follow">How Does SIM Swapping Work?</a></li>
<li data-sourcepos="22:1-22:29"><a href="#howdoireportasimswapattack" rel="follow">How do I report a SIM swap attack?</a></li>
<li data-sourcepos="25:1-25:32"><a href="#howtoprotectyourself" rel="follow">How to Protect Yourself from SIM Swapping</a></li>
</ul>
<h2 id="whatissimswapping">What Is SIM Swapping?</h2>
SIM swapping, also known as SIM jacking or port-out fraud, is a scam where a cybercriminal gains control of your phone number by transferring it to a new SIM card. This allows them to intercept your calls, texts, and two-factor authentication codes, which they can then use to access your online accounts, such as your bank account, email, or social media profiles.
SIM cards are tiny chips that store your phone number and other subscriber information. They allow your phone to connect to your carrier's network and make calls, send texts, and access data.
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SIM swapping can be a very effective scam because it relies on <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/10-cyberattacks-recently-used-by-hackers-2023#socialengineering:~:text=you%20can%20restore.-,Social%20Engineering,-Social%20engineering%20is" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">social engineering</a>, which is the art of tricking people into giving up personal information. Scammers will often use a variety of techniques to gather information about their victims, such as <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/spear-phishing" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">phishing emails</a>, social media stalking, or even buying personal information on the black market.
Once they have enough information, the attacker will contact your carrier and pretend to be you. They will try to convince the carrier representative to transfer your phone number to a new SIM card that they have in their possession. In some cases, they may be successful, especially if they have been able to gather personal information about you, such as your birthday or the last four digits of your Social Security number.
<h2 id="howdoessimswappingwork">How Does SIM Swapping Work?</h2>
SIM swapping scams typically involve a two-step process:
<ol data-sourcepos="45:1-51:0">
<li data-sourcepos="45:1-49:0">
Information Gathering: The attacker will first try to gather as much personal information about you as possible. This information could include your name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, phone number, and the answers to your security questions. They may use a variety of techniques to gather this information, such as:
<ul data-sourcepos="46:5-49:0">
<li data-sourcepos="46:5-46:264">Phishing scams: Phishing emails or text messages that appear to be from a legitimate source, such as your bank or phone company. These messages will often try to trick you into clicking on a link or entering your personal information into a fake website.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="47:5-47:205">Social media stalking: Attackers can glean a surprising amount of personal information from your social media profiles, such as your birthday, hometown, and the names of your friends and family.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="48:5-49:0">Buying information on the black market: Personal information is unfortunately readily available for purchase on the dark web.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li data-sourcepos="50:1-51:0">
Porting the Number: Once the attacker has enough information about you, they will contact your carrier and pretend to be you. They will try to convince the carrier representative to transfer your phone number to a new SIM card that they have in their possession. They may use the information they have gathered to answer your security questions or verify your identity.
</li>
</ol>
If the attacker is successful, your phone number will be transferred to the new SIM card. This means that all of your calls, texts, and two-factor authentication codes will now be sent to the attacker's phone instead of yours. The attacker can then use this information to access your online accounts and steal your money or identity.
<h2 id="howdoireportasimswapattack">How Do I Report a SIM Swap Attack?</h2>
If you think you've been a victim of SIM swapping, the most important thing to do is to contact your carrier immediately. The sooner you report the scam, the sooner they can take steps to prevent further damage.
Here's how to report a SIM swap, but keep in mind the specific instructions may vary depending on your carrier:
<ul data-sourcepos="7:1-7:73">
<li data-sourcepos="7:1-7:73">Call your carrier's customer service number. You can usually find this number on your carrier's website or on your monthly bill.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="8:1-8:62">Explain to the customer service representative that you believe you've been a victim of SIM swapping.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="9:1-9:150">Provide the representative with as much information as possible, such as your name, account number, and the phone number that was swapped.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="10:1-11:0">The carrier will likely freeze your account and issue you a new SIM card.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="11:1-12:0">Once your account is secure, you should also change the passwords for all of your online accounts.</li>
</ul>
Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful:
<ul data-sourcepos="15:1-19:0">
<li data-sourcepos="15:1-15:138">Verizon: <a href="https://www.verizon.com/about/account-security/sim-swapping" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://www.verizon.com/about/account-security/sim-swapping</a></li>
<li data-sourcepos="16:1-16:131">AT&amp;T: <a href="https://about.att.com/pages/cyberaware/ni/blog/sim_swap" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://about.att.com/pages/cyberaware/ni/blog/sim_swap</a></li>
<li data-sourcepos="17:1-17:135">T-Mobile: <a href="https://www.t-mobile.com/support/business/change-sim-card" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://www.t-mobile.com/support/business/change-sim-card</a></li>
</ul>

<h2 id="howtoprotectyourself">How to Protect Yourself from a SIM Swap</h2>
There are a number of steps you can take to protect yourself from SIM swapping:
<h3 data-sourcepos="22:1-22:79">Always use Strong, Unique Passwords for Every Account</h3>
SIM swapping can be used for several nefarious schemes, but one of the most damaging is to capture your 2FA code. Unfortunately, many banks and other sensitive accounts allow or even require SMS-based multi-factor authentication. If your password is weak, the only thing that stands between a cyberthief and devastation is your phone carrier's (underpaid) customer support representative.&nbsp;
With a strong, unique password on every account, you at least mitigate the chance of a threat actor getting past step 1.
Protecting your email is especially important since most password reset flows work on the assumption that your email is secure!
If you need to share login credentials or have employees whose habits could endanger your company, you may want to invest in an affordable, collaboration-first password manager like <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">TeamPassword</a>.&nbsp;

<h3 data-sourcepos="24:1-24:31">Avoid SMS 2FA When Possible</h3>
<a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/2fa-vs-mfa" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Two-factor authentication</a> (2FA) is an extra layer of security that helps to protect your online accounts. When you enable 2FA, you're required to enter a code in addition to your password in order to log in. This code can be sent to your phone via text message (SMS) or generated by an authentication app or hardware token.
While SMS 2FA is better than no 2FA at all, it's not the most secure option. This is because SIM swapping can give attackers access to your phone number, which means they could also intercept your 2FA codes.
For this reason, it's generally recommended to avoid using SMS 2FA whenever possible. Instead, you should use an authentication app like Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator, or Authy. These apps generate unique codes that are not tied to your phone number. Hardware tokens like YubiKey are another secure option for 2FA.
<h3 data-sourcepos="32:1-32:33"></h3>
<h3 data-sourcepos="32:1-32:33">The Problem with Social Media and SIM Swapping Scams</h3>
Many carriers still rely on security questions to verify your identity when you contact them. Unfortunately, the answers to these questions are often readily available on social media profiles. Hackers can easily find out your birthday, your pet's name, or the city you grew up in with a little social media stalking.
Here are some tips for protecting yourself:
<ul data-sourcepos="38:1-41:0">
<li data-sourcepos="38:1-38:170">Be careful about what information you share on social media. Don't share your birthday, address, phone number, or the names of your pets or family members publicly.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="39:1-39:123">Use <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/tips-and-tricks-to-create-a-strong-password#:~:text=Strong%20Passwords%20Secure-,What%20Makes%20a%20Password%20Strong%3F,-A%20strong%20password" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">strong and unique passwords</a> for all of your online accounts. Don't reuse the same password for multiple accounts.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="40:1-41:0">Enable privacy settings on your social media accounts. This will help to limit who can see your information.</li>
</ul>
By following these tips, you can make it more difficult for attackers to gather the information they need to carry out a SIM swap scam.
In addition to the above, here are some other things you can do to protect yourself from SIM swapping:
<ul data-sourcepos="46:1-50:0">
<li data-sourcepos="46:1-46:134">Be wary of phishing scams. Don't click on links or enter your personal information into websites or emails from unknown senders.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="47:1-47:138">Review your carrier account regularly. Look for any suspicious activity, such as changes to your account information or new charges.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="48:1-48:117">Consider adding a PIN to your SIM card. This will require you to enter a PIN in order to activate the SIM card.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="49:1-50:0">Keep your software up to date. This includes your operating system, web browser, and security software.</li>
</ul>
<h2 data-sourcepos="51:1-51:98">How to manage all those unique credentials securely</h2>
Credential management and storage is tough: that's why people use passwords, security questions, and PINs that can be easily guessed, phished, or scraped from the internet.&nbsp;
One of the best solutions is a reliable password manager. Our goal with <a href="https://teampassword.com/" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">TeamPassword</a> is to make business password management affordable, easy to understand, and secure. <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Try TeamPassword for free for 14 days</a> with no obligations.&nbsp;

Discover how SIM swapping works and how to prevent it. This guide explains SIM swapping scams, how they steal your phone number, and offers solutions to keep your accounts safe.

Discover how SIM swapping works and how to prevent it. This guide explains SIM swapping scams, how they ...

What Is SIM Swapping and How to Prevent SIM Swap Attacks

In the business world, ensuring secure access to systems and data is paramount. One method increasingly employed to bolster security is the use of one-time passwords (OTPs). This blog explores what OTPs are, their applications, and how they compare to other security measures like traditional passwords, and the difference between OTP and multi-factor authentication (MFA). Additionally, we'll discuss the need for secure password storage and the potential vulnerabilities associated with OTPs.
<h3>Table of Contents</h3>
<ol>
<li><a href="#introduction" rel="follow">Introduction to One-Time Passwords (OTPs)</a></li>
<li><a href="#applications" rel="follow">Applications of One-Time Passwords</a></li>
<li><a href="#comparing" rel="follow">Comparing Passwords, MFA, and OTPs</a></li>
<li><a href="#importanceofsecurepasswordmanagement" rel="follow">The Importance of Secure Password Management and MFA</a></li>
<li><a href="#vulnerabilites" rel="follow">Vulnerabilities of OTPs</a></li>
</ol>
<h2 id="introduction">Introduction to One-Time Passwords (OTPs)</h2>
A one-time password (OTP) is a security mechanism that generates a unique password for each login or transaction session. Unlike traditional passwords, which remain the same until changed by the user, OTPs are valid for only one use and a limited period. This dynamic nature makes OTPs more secure against certain types of cyberattacks, particularly <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Replay_attack" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">replay attacks</a> where an attacker reuses credentials intercepted during transmission.
OTPs are typically delivered to users via SMS, email, or through specialized applications like Google Authenticator or Authy. The generation and verification of OTPs often rely on algorithms such as the <a href="https://www.twilio.com/docs/glossary/totp" rel="nofollow noopener">Time-Based One-Time Password</a> (TOTP) or HMAC-Based One-Time Password (HOTP).
<h2 id="applications">Applications of One-Time Passwords</h2>
One-time passwords are employed in a variety of scenarios to enhance security. Below are some common applications:
<ol>
<li>
Banking and Financial Services: Many banks use OTPs for authenticating online transactions and accessing online banking services. For example, customers may receive an OTP via SMS to confirm a money transfer.
</li>
<li>
Corporate Access Control: Businesses use OTPs to secure access to sensitive systems and data. Employees may need to enter an OTP in addition to their regular password to access corporate networks or cloud services.
</li>
<li>
E-commerce: Online retailers use OTPs to verify customer identities during checkout, especially for high-value transactions. This helps prevent unauthorized purchases.
</li>
<li>
Email and Social Media: Providers like Google and Facebook use OTPs as part of their two-step verification processes, adding an extra layer of security to user accounts.
</li>
<li>
Healthcare: Medical institutions use OTPs to protect patient data and ensure that only authorized personnel can access electronic health records (EHRs).
</li>
<li>
Government Services: Government portals often use OTPs to secure access to services such as tax filing, benefit applications, and other sensitive citizen data interactions.
</li>
</ol>
<h2 id="comparing">Comparing Passwords, MFA, and OTPs</h2>
Passwords
Traditional passwords are the most common form of authentication. Users create a password, which they use to access systems and services. However, passwords alone have significant drawbacks:
<ul>
<li>Vulnerability to Attacks: Passwords can be stolen through phishing, keylogging, or data breaches.</li>
<li>Password Fatigue: Users often reuse passwords across multiple sites, increasing the risk of compromise.</li>
<li>Complexity vs. Usability: Strong passwords are hard to remember, leading to poor practices like writing them down.</li>
</ul>
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
MFA adds additional layers of security by requiring multiple forms of verification:
<ul>
<li>Something You Know: A password or PIN.</li>
<li>Something You Have: A physical device like a smartphone or a hardware token.</li>
<li>Something You Are: Biometric verification like a fingerprint or facial recognition.</li>
</ul>
MFA significantly enhances security by combining these factors. Even if one factor is compromised, an attacker would still need the others to gain access.
One-Time Passwords (OTPs)
OTPs can be considered a component of MFA:
<ul>
<li>Dynamic Nature: OTPs are used only once and are time-limited, reducing the risk of replay attacks.</li>
<li>Convenience: They can be delivered to users via familiar methods like SMS or email.</li>
<li>Integration: OTPs are often used alongside traditional passwords and other MFA components for added security.</li>
</ul>
<h2 id="importanceofsecurepasswordmanagement">The Importance of Secure Password Management and MFA</h2>
For businesses, the security of digital assets and sensitive information is paramount. Implementing strong authentication mechanisms is essential for protecting against unauthorized access and cyber threats.
Employee Use of MFA
Employees are often the first line of defense in cybersecurity. Ensuring that employees use MFA can significantly reduce the risk of breaches:
<ul>
<li>Enhanced Security: MFA provides an additional layer of security beyond passwords.</li>
<li>Compliance: Many industries have regulatory requirements for MFA to protect sensitive data.</li>
<li>User Awareness: Using MFA educates employees about the importance of security and helps foster a culture of vigilance.</li>
</ul>
Secure Password Storage
Storing passwords securely is crucial to prevent unauthorized access:
<ul>
<li>Password Managers: Encourage employees to use <a href="https://teampassword.com/features" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">password managers</a> to generate and store complex, unique passwords for each service.</li>
<li>Encryption: Ensure that passwords are stored using strong encryption methods to protect them from theft.</li>
</ul>
<h2 id="vulnerabilites">Vulnerabilities of OTPs</h2>
While OTPs provide enhanced security, they are not without their vulnerabilities. One critical weakness is their dependency on the security of the delivery method, typically email or SMS.
<h3>Security of Email and SMS</h3>
Email
Email is a common method for delivering OTPs, but it is not foolproof. If a user's email account is compromised, an attacker can intercept OTPs sent via email, gaining access to secured accounts. This vulnerability is particularly concerning given the prevalence of phishing attacks and data breaches that expose email credentials.
Examples: Notable incidents include the Yahoo data breaches in 2013 and 2014, which affected billions of user accounts. If OTPs had been sent to these compromised emails, they would have been easily intercepted by attackers.
SMS
SMS is another popular method for OTP delivery, but it has significant security flaws. One major issue is SIM swapping, where an attacker tricks the mobile carrier into transferring the victim's phone number to a new SIM card. Once this is done, the attacker can receive all OTPs sent to the victim's phone number.
Examples: There have been numerous SIM swap attacks targeting cryptocurrency accounts. For instance, a <a href="https://gbhackers.com/hacker-group-sim-swapping-attack/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">high-profile case in 2018</a> involved a hacker stealing $5 million by taking over victims' phone numbers and intercepting their OTPs.
<h4>Mitigating Risks</h4>
To mitigate these risks, businesses should implement additional security measures:
Email Security
Encourage employees to use strong, unique passwords for their email accounts and enable MFA. A strong password is less likely to be guessed or cracked, and MFA adds an extra layer of protection.
Educate employees on recognizing phishing attempts and provide training on cybersecurity best practices. Use email security solutions that can detect and block phishing emails and malicious attachments.
Alternative Delivery Methods
Consider using more secure methods for OTP delivery, such as dedicated authentication apps (e.g., Google Authenticator, Authy) or hardware tokens. These methods do not rely on potentially insecure communication channels like email or SMS.
Authentication apps generate OTPs locally on the device, which are not susceptible to interception during transmission. Hardware tokens provide a physical factor that is harder to replicate or steal.
Continuous Monitoring
Implement systems to monitor for unusual login activities and alert users to potential security breaches. This proactive approach can help detect and respond to suspicious activities before significant damage occurs.
Use anomaly detection systems that analyze login patterns and flag irregularities, such as logins from unusual locations or devices. Integrate these systems with a comprehensive security information and event management (SIEM) solution to centralize and correlate security alerts.
Additional Recommendations:
<ol>
<li>
Encryption: Ensure that all OTPs, whether delivered via email, SMS, or other methods, are encrypted in transit to protect against interception.
</li>
<li>
Limit OTP Validity: Reduce the validity period of OTPs to minimize the window of opportunity for an attacker to use a compromised OTP.
</li>
<li>
User Education: Regularly educate users about the importance of securing their communication channels and recognizing potential security threats.
</li>
<li>
Backup Authentication Methods: Provide backup authentication methods for scenarios where OTP delivery methods fail, ensuring that users can still gain access securely.
</li>
</ol>
By understanding the vulnerabilities of OTPs and implementing these additional security measures, businesses can significantly enhance the security of their authentication processes and protect against unauthorized access.
<h2>Secure password handling remains crucial</h2>
Understanding the meaning and application of OTPs in business is crucial for enhancing security and protecting sensitive data. While OTPs offer significant security benefits, they should be used as part of a comprehensive security strategy that includes MFA and secure password management practices. Businesses must stay vigilant and continually assess their security measures to adapt to evolving threats.
Even with OTPs, <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/what-are-magic-links-and-how-are-they-used" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">magic links</a>, or the increasingly popular <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/passkey-technology" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Passkeys</a>, you still need a secure solution for storing passwords. If you're a business, you need a safe and convenient way to share them. A password manager like <a href="https://teampassword.com/" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">TeamPassword</a> can do just that. Try <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">TeamPassword free for 14 days</a>.&nbsp;

Learn what OTP means in business and how it enhances security. Explore the applications of one-time passwords, the differences between passwords, MFA, and OTPs, and the importance of secure password management.

Learn what OTP means in business and how it enhances security. Explore the applications of one-time passwords, the ...

What does OTP mean in business?

Learn what OTP means in business and how it enhances security. Explore the applications of one-time passwords, the differences between passwords, MFA, and OTPs, and the importance of secure password management. Discover the potential vulnerabilities of OTPs and how to mitigate risks.

Biometrics refer to the measurement and statistical analysis of people&rsquo;s physical and behavioral characteristics. These technologies have become integral to modern security systems, offering enhanced protection and user convenience, albeit with <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/disadvantages-of-biometrics" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">disadvantages</a>. This blog explores the various types of biometrics, detailing their development, applications, and capture methods.
<h3>Table of Contents</h3>
<ol>
<li><a href="#introduction" rel="follow">Introduction to Biometrics</a></li>
<li><a href="#types" rel="follow">Types of Biometrics</a>
<ul>
<li><a href="#fingerprint" rel="follow">Fingerprint Recognition</a></li>
<li><a href="#facial" rel="follow">Facial Recognition</a></li>
<li><a href="#iris" rel="follow">Iris Recognition</a></li>
<li><a href="#voice" rel="follow">Voice Recognition</a></li>
<li><a href="#hand" rel="follow">Hand Geometry</a></li>
<li><a href="#retina" rel="follow">Retina Scanning</a></li>
<li><a href="#behavioral" rel="follow">Behavioral Biometrics</a></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ol>
<h3 id="introduction">Introduction to Biometrics</h3>
Biometric technologies use unique physical or behavioral traits to identify individuals. These technologies have evolved significantly over the past few decades, becoming essential in various sectors, from personal electronics to national security. Understanding the different types of biometrics helps in appreciating their applications and the security they provide.
Biometrics are integrated ever more deeply into our technology with authentication methods like <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/passkey-technology" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Passkeys</a>.&nbsp;
<h2 id="types">Types of Biometrics</h2>
<h3 id="fingerprint">Fingerprint Recognition</h3>
Development and History
Fingerprint recognition is one of the oldest biometric technologies, tracing back to the late 19th century. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Francis_Galton#:~:text=Arthur%20Batut.-,Fingerprints,-%5Bedit%5D" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Sir Francis Galton</a>, a pioneer in fingerprint analysis, demonstrated the uniqueness and permanence of fingerprints, making them an ideal biometric identifier. By the early 20th century, fingerprinting had become a standard method for criminal identification in law enforcement.
Applications
Fingerprint recognition is ubiquitous in modern technology. It is widely used in smartphones for unlocking devices and in various security systems for access control. Law enforcement agencies use fingerprints for criminal identification, while businesses employ them in time and attendance tracking systems.
Capture Method
Fingerprint recognition systems use optical, capacitive, or ultrasonic sensors to capture an image of a fingerprint. Optical sensors take a digital photo of the fingerprint, capacitive sensors use electrical currents to map the fingerprint's ridges and valleys, and ultrasonic sensors use sound waves to create a detailed image. These images are then processed to extract unique patterns, such as ridges and minutiae points, which are compared against stored templates for identification.
<h3 id="facial">Facial Recognition</h3>
Development and History
Facial recognition technology has undergone significant evolution since its inception in the 1960s. <a href="https://www.historyofinformation.com/detail.php?entryid=2495" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Woodrow Wilson Bledsoe developed the first system</a>, which could recognize human faces using a computer. Early systems relied on 2D images, but advancements in computer vision and machine learning have led to sophisticated 3D recognition systems, significantly improving accuracy and reliability.
Applications
Facial recognition is widely used across various sectors. In security, it is used for surveillance and access control. In retail, it enhances customer experience by personalizing services. Social media platforms use facial recognition to tag individuals in photos automatically, and airports use it for efficient and secure passenger processing.
Capture Method
Facial recognition systems use cameras to capture images or videos of a person's face. These images are analyzed to extract unique features, such as the distance between the eyes, the shape of the nose, and the contour of the jawline. Advanced systems utilize 3D mapping and infrared imaging to improve accuracy and overcome challenges posed by lighting and angles.
<h3 id="iris">Iris Recognition</h3>
Development and History
Iris recognition was <a href="https://www.invent.org/inductees/john-g-daugman" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">developed in the 1980s by John Daugman</a>. The technology leverages the unique patterns in the iris, the colored part of the eye, which remain stable over a person's lifetime. This stability and uniqueness make the iris an excellent biometric identifier.
Applications
Iris recognition is primarily used in high-security environments, such as military installations and border control. Some financial institutions also use it for secure access to banking services. Additionally, it is used in healthcare for patient identification and in some consumer electronics for device unlocking.
Capture Method
Iris recognition systems use near-infrared light to capture high-resolution images of the iris. The captured image reveals intricate patterns that are unique to each individual. These patterns are extracted and converted into digital templates, which are then compared against stored templates for identification.
<h3 id="voice">Voice Recognition</h3>
Development and History
Voice recognition technology emerged in the mid-20th century. Early systems had limited capabilities, but advancements in digital signal processing and machine learning have significantly improved their accuracy and functionality. Modern voice recognition systems can accurately identify individuals and understand natural language commands.
Applications
Voice recognition is widely used in telecommunications, customer service, and home automation. It is employed for secure access to phone systems, enabling voice-activated assistants like Siri and Alexa, and controlling smart home devices. Additionally, it is used in banking for secure transaction authentication.
Capture Method
Voice recognition systems capture audio samples using microphones. The system analyzes unique vocal characteristics, such as pitch, tone, and cadence, to create a voice print. This voice print is compared against stored templates for identification. Advanced systems also incorporate natural language processing to understand and execute voice commands.
<h3 id="hand">Hand Geometry</h3>
Development and History
Hand geometry recognition technology was developed in the late 20th century. Unlike other biometric systems that rely on highly unique traits, hand geometry uses the overall shape and size of the hand, which are sufficiently unique for certain applications.
Applications
Hand geometry is commonly used in access control for commercial and industrial settings. It is often employed in time and attendance systems to track employee work hours. The technology is also used in some high-security environments where other biometric systems may not be feasible.
Capture Method
Hand geometry systems use cameras and light sensors to capture images of the hand. The system measures various dimensions of the hand, such as finger length, hand width, and palm size, to create a geometric template. This template is compared against stored templates for identification.
<h3 id="retina">Retina Scanning</h3>
Development and History
Retina scanning technology was developed in the mid-20th century. It involves scanning the unique pattern of blood vessels in the retina, located at the back of the eye. The retina's blood vessel pattern is highly complex and unique to each individual, making it a reliable biometric identifier.
Applications
Retina scanning is used in high-security environments, such as government facilities, military installations, and research labs. Its high accuracy and difficulty to spoof make it ideal for these applications. Some healthcare systems also use retina scanning for patient identification and disease detection.
Capture Method
Retina scanning systems use low-intensity infrared light to illuminate the retina. The light reflects off the retina's blood vessels, creating a unique pattern that is captured by the system. This pattern is then analyzed and compared to stored templates for identification.
<h3 id="behavioral">Behavioral Biometrics</h3>
Development and History
Behavioral biometrics is a relatively new field that focuses on identifying individuals based on their behavior rather than physical traits. This can include patterns in typing, mouse movements, walking gait, and even usage patterns on mobile devices. The field has gained traction with the advancement of machine learning and data analytics.
Applications
Behavioral biometrics is primarily used in cybersecurity to detect and prevent fraud. It can continuously monitor user behavior to ensure the person interacting with a system is the authorized user. This technology is also used in financial services to detect fraudulent transactions and in enterprise security to protect sensitive information.
Capture Method
Behavioral biometrics systems capture data on specific behaviors using various sensors and software algorithms. For example, keystroke dynamics systems monitor typing patterns, while gait analysis systems use motion sensors to analyze walking patterns. The captured data is analyzed to create a behavioral profile, which is compared against stored profiles for identification.
<h3>Conclusion</h3>
Understanding the different types of biometrics is crucial for appreciating the complexities and capabilities of biometric authentication systems. Each type offers unique benefits and is suited to different applications, from securing personal devices to protecting sensitive information in high-security environments. As technology advances, the integration and refinement of these biometric systems will continue to enhance security and user convenience.

The term "biometrics" gets thrown around a lot. But what counts as a biometric identifier? What are the biometrics types, when did they originate, and which are the most popular?

The term "biometrics" gets thrown around a lot. But what counts as a biometric identifier? What are the ...

What are the Types of Biometrics?

Biometric authentication refers to the use of unique biological characteristics to verify an individual's identity. Common forms of biometric authentication include fingerprint scanning, facial recognition, iris scanning, and voice recognition. These technologies have evolved significantly over the past few years, moving from niche applications in high-security environments to widespread use in everyday devices like smartphones and laptops.
Initially, biometric systems were primarily used by government agencies and in secure facilities, but advancements in technology have made biometrics more accessible and affordable. As a result, we now encounter biometric authentication in various aspects of our daily lives, from unlocking our phones to accessing bank accounts and even entering office buildings.
<h2>The Rise of Biometric Authentication</h2>
The push for biometrics is driven by the need for stronger security measures. Traditional authentication methods, such as passwords and PINs, have become increasingly vulnerable to hacking and fraud. Biometric authentication promises a higher level of security because biological traits are harder to replicate or steal compared to passwords.
Companies and service providers are rapidly adopting biometric technology. For instance, Apple's Face ID and Touch ID have become standard features in its devices, and many banks now offer biometric login options for their apps. Airports are also implementing biometric systems for faster and more secure passenger processing. <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/passkey-technology" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Passkey technology</a> utilizes biometrics.&nbsp;
However, while the adoption of biometrics continues to grow, it's crucial to consider the potential drawbacks. Despite the apparent benefits, there are several significant disadvantages associated with biometric authentication that need to be addressed.
Learn more in our deep-dive: <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/what-is-biometric-identification" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Biometric Identification: What is it?</a>&nbsp;
<h2>Disadvantages of Biometrics</h2>
<h3>Privacy Concerns</h3>
One of the most significant disadvantages of biometric authentication is the potential invasion of privacy. Biometric data is inherently personal, and collecting such information raises concerns about how it is stored, used, and shared. Unlike passwords, which can be changed if compromised, biometric traits are immutable. If someone's biometric data is stolen, they cannot simply replace it like they would a password.
There have been numerous instances where biometric data has been mishandled. For example, in 2019, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2019/aug/14/major-breach-found-in-biometrics-system-used-by-banks-uk-police-and-defence-firms" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">a breach at Suprema</a>, a biometric security company, exposed the fingerprints and facial recognition data of over a million people. Such breaches highlight the risks of storing biometric data and the potential for misuse.
<h3>Data Security Risks</h3>
Biometric systems are not immune to hacking. While it is true that replicating biometric data is more challenging than cracking a password, it is not impossible. Researchers have demonstrated various ways to spoof biometric systems. For instance, hackers have successfully created fake fingerprints using high-resolution images and 3D printing technology.
In 2015, hackers breached the U.S. Office of Personnel Management and <a href="https://www.cyberdefensemagazine.com/opm-stolen-data-includes-5-6-million-fingerprints/" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">stole the fingerprint data of 5.6 million federal employees</a>. This incident underscored the vulnerability of biometric systems and the severe consequences of such breaches.
<h3>False Positives and False Negatives</h3>
Biometric systems are not infallible and can produce false positives (incorrectly identifying someone as another person) and false negatives (failing to recognize the legitimate user). These errors can have serious implications, especially in security-sensitive environments.
For example, facial recognition technology has been criticized for its higher error rates when identifying people of color and women. This bias can lead to wrongful accusations or denial of access, exacerbating social inequalities and causing distress to those affected.
<h3>Lack of Standardization</h3>
Another challenge with biometric authentication is the lack of standardization across different systems and devices. This inconsistency can lead to compatibility issues and complicates the integration of biometric systems into existing infrastructures.
For instance, the biometric data used by one company's system might not be compatible with another's, leading to fragmented and less secure implementations. Additionally, the quality of biometric sensors can vary significantly, affecting the accuracy and reliability of the authentication process.
<h3>Ethical and Legal Issues</h3>
The use of biometric authentication raises several ethical and legal questions. For example, there is ongoing debate about the extent to which employers or government agencies should be allowed to collect and use biometric data. In some cases, individuals may feel coerced into providing their biometric information, raising concerns about consent and autonomy.
In 2020, a lawsuit was filed against Clearview AI, a company that scraped billions of images from social media to build a facial recognition database. The lawsuit alleged that Clearview AI violated privacy rights by using individuals' images without their consent. Such cases highlight the need for robust legal frameworks to regulate the use of biometrics and protect individuals' rights.
<h3>Accessibility Issues</h3>
While biometric authentication is often touted as user-friendly, it can pose accessibility challenges for certain individuals. For example, people with disabilities that affect their fingerprints or facial features might struggle to use fingerprint or facial recognition systems. This can lead to exclusion and inconvenience for a segment of the population.
Moreover, elderly individuals might face difficulties with biometric systems due to age-related changes in their physical traits. For instance, fingerprints can become less distinct with age, making fingerprint scanners less effective.
<h3>High Implementation Costs</h3>
Implementing biometric systems can be expensive, particularly for smaller organizations. The cost of high-quality biometric sensors, software, and ongoing maintenance can be prohibitive. Additionally, organizations must invest in secure storage solutions to protect biometric data, further increasing the overall cost.
While larger corporations might absorb these costs more easily, smaller businesses and public institutions might struggle with the financial burden, limiting the widespread adoption of biometric technology.
<h3>Potential for Surveillance and Abuse</h3>
The proliferation of biometric systems also raises concerns about surveillance and abuse. Governments and corporations could potentially use biometric data to track individuals without their knowledge or consent. This capability poses a significant threat to civil liberties and could lead to a surveillance state.
For instance, China's extensive use of facial recognition technology for public surveillance has <a href="https://www.cnet.com/news/politics/in-china-facial-recognition-public-shaming-and-control-go-hand-in-hand/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">drawn international criticism</a> for its implications on privacy and human rights. Such examples illustrate the potential for biometric technology to be used in ways that infringe on individual freedoms.
<h4>Conclusion</h4>
Biometric authentication offers several advantages, including enhanced security and convenience. However, it is essential to weigh these benefits against the potential disadvantages. Privacy concerns, data security risks, errors, lack of standardization, ethical issues, accessibility challenges, high implementation costs, and the potential for surveillance are significant drawbacks that need to be addressed.
As the use of biometric authentication continues to grow, it is crucial for policymakers, technologists, and society at large to carefully consider these disadvantages. Robust legal frameworks, stringent security measures, and ethical guidelines are necessary to mitigate the risks and ensure that biometric technology is used responsibly and fairly.
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Discover the disadvantages of biometric authentication. Learn about privacy concerns, data security risks, false positives, and more. Explore real-life cases and understand the challenges of widespread biometric adoption.

Discover the disadvantages of biometric authentication in our in-depth blog. Learn about privacy concerns, data security risks, false ...

What are the Disadvantages of Biometrics?

Discover the disadvantages of biometric authentication in our in-depth blog. Learn about privacy concerns, data security risks, false positives, and more. Explore real-life cases and understand the challenges of widespread biometric adoption.

You have probably seen many popular communication technologies declaring that they use end-to-end encryption to protect your data. End-to-end encryption is often thought of as the most private and secure way to communicate online and it is now more accessible than ever.

Sounds great &ndash; but what exactly does end-to-end encryption mean? How does it work? Does end-to-end encryption offer better and more secure communication?&nbsp;

In this blog post, we will answer these questions and more as we discover how end-to-end encryption ensures secure communication.

<h2>What Is End-to-End Encryption and How Does It Work?</h2>
Encryption describes the practice of making data or information indecipherable to unauthorized third parties. It works by transforming data into a code that can only be decoded through an authorized decryption process. These complex transformations make it virtually impossible to decode the data without proper permissions.&nbsp;

End-to-end encryption focuses on protecting data as it is sent from one device to another. The data is encrypted on the sender&rsquo;s device and decrypted on the recipient&rsquo;s device. If someone <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/man-in-the-middle-attack" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">attempts to intercept the data</a> during transfer, it is unreadable.&nbsp;
<h2>How does end-to-end encryption differ from other encryption practices?</h2>
Unlike traditional encryption practices, end-to-end encryption is a complete solution from sender to receiver. Not only is the data encrypted in transit, but it is also never decrypted on the server. In contrast, at-rest and in-transit methods only encrypt in certain contexts.&nbsp;
<h3>Encryption in transit&nbsp;</h3>
As the name suggests, this type of encryption safeguards data as it travels between two systems. Data encrypted in transit is protected from malicious activity as it travels from sender to receiver. For example, data is in transit when using messaging services, uploading information to an app or even using <a href="https://www.dialpad.com/blog/call-center-ivr/" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">contact center IVR</a> systems.&nbsp;
<h3>Encryption at rest</h3>
Encryption at rest is a method of protecting data that is not in use. Often used alongside other data protection measures such as authentication and access control, encryption at rest makes stored data less vulnerable to data breaches.&nbsp;

<img height="401" width="602" src="https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/MQ2so6iO7I8Sg7BYqQqscgRLKjlcG7lyRma3e_ajjcDxTd6N624ONcXGmsiSzuNCd3cIMQ-Hcyk2dbJ5rd39hRsAerkfqeqV991hPA2yxhv39gM15iPKKQW9IiaHMUWkpw7Dw3iSHjlB6OXHrMpxYbs">
Free to use image sourced from Unsplash

End-to-end encryption is unique in that only the sender and receiver can decrypt the data. The data is encrypted at the point of transmission and an obfuscated message is delivered which only the end-user can decrypt. The encryption and decryption are limited to the end-to-end users and not the server itself.&nbsp;

End-to-end encryption is therefore a much more private method of secure communication when compared with other encryption practices.&nbsp;
<h2>Benefits of End-to-End Encryption&nbsp;</h2>
End-to-end encryption is a powerful tool for data protection and secure communication. There are many advantages to using end-to-end encryption which we will discover in this section.&nbsp;
<h3>Data security</h3>
When you use end-to-end encryption, it is much more difficult for hackers to access your data. Even if hackers are able to compromise the servers where encrypted data is stored, they would not be able to decrypt and read the data.&nbsp;

With end-to-end encryption, even system administrators accounts are not given access to encrypted data. Only the senders and receivers have the necessary credentials to decrypt the data. Hacks against admin accounts therefore don&rsquo;t necessarily result in a data breach and this significantly <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/third-party-data-breaches-risks" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">mitigates the risk of third party data breaches</a>.
<h3>Data integrity</h3>
Since data is encrypted at the point of transmission and only decrypted when received by the intended recipient, data is protected against tampering attempts. End-to-end encryption ensures data integrity across the whole journey of a message.&nbsp;

Using cryptographic techniques, end-to-end encryption protects against data modification. Senders can rest assured that the data remains unchanged throughout the transmission process.&nbsp;
<h3>Privacy&nbsp;</h3>
End-to-end encryption provides higher levels of privacy when compared to other methods of encryption. It prevents anyone from accessing your data other than the intended recipient &ndash; even the service provider. This helps to <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/how-to-prevent-insider-threats" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">protect data from insider threats</a> as well as external attacks.&nbsp;

<img height="377" width="602" src="https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/2OjrLgjjppRwvoO5h6vMbfEFsHaTKrLRC453zisv6OINA6vj4xm6TKE315VL96X3ezt3k_me5-L9zi0Azx-Jiewg6ZiDIXEgGXlfgqgO6ZZi59fzgda79-BAaUMAUwwHe8BoYKVuoJvpB31D9OIFWF8">
Free to use image sourced from Pixabay

For example, if you use an email service provider who does not use end-to-end encryption, it can technically access the data stored within your emails at any time. On the other hand, using an end-to-end encrypted email service gives you reassurance that no one without authorization is reading your emails.&nbsp;
<h3>Compliance&nbsp;</h3>
Compliance with regulations such as ITAR and CMMC, or fraud-preventing frameworks such as COSO (read here if you&rsquo;re wondering: &ldquo;<a href="https://www.auditboard.com/blog/coso-framework-fundamentals/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">what is COSO framework</a>?&rdquo;) is essential for any organization handling sensitive data. Many compliance frameworks require total encryption protection for data at all points of storage and transmission.&nbsp;

Implementing end-to-end encryption not only ensures secure communication but also plays a significant role in meeting compliance standards.&nbsp;
<h2>How End-to-End Encryption is used&nbsp;</h2>
Due to the benefits explained above, end-to-end encryption is becoming more popular across industries that rely on secure communication. Let&rsquo;s take a look at some real examples of how end-to-end encryption is being used in today&rsquo;s world.&nbsp;
<h3>Messaging Apps</h3>
Popular messaging app WhatsApp uses end-to-end encryption to ensure secure communication among its users. When a user sends a message, WhatsApp encrypts the data using a unique private encryption key on the sender&rsquo;s device. The encrypted message is then transmitted to the intended recipient and can only be decrypted by that user. The receiving device possesses the corresponding private decryption key. Even if the message was somehow intercepted, it would be unreadable.&nbsp;

Signal is another open-source messaging app providing secure communication for its users. Prioritizing <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/customer-data-security-best-practices">customer data security</a> and privacy, it uses end-to-end encryption to ensure only the sender and receiver of a message can read it. This applies to all forms of communication within the Signal app, including text messages, group chats, voice calls, and video calls. It's no wonder Signal has been praised and endorsed by privacy and cybersecurity experts in the industry.&nbsp;
<h3>Email services&nbsp;</h3>
You may be surprised to learn that many email service providers do not use end-to-end encryption. However, email services that use end-to-end encryption uphold high standards of data security and privacy.&nbsp;

<img height="401" width="602" src="https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/5tDkCKK5lTbBSZGoreI4rFDNO_-X9CAn4Lvl09F9RcQGZUznBPzjQdpp3h2CLZbRi_cSdX2xiAN4cqG-Bq2NViFkL2tV43gB0zBCuQgRA9Grap_NcM-aWl-zRT0xiXOsnAr_skkCJYcSwccKXq2ICU8">
Free to use image sourced from Unsplash

One such provider is ProtonMail, who use sophisticated end-to-end encryption practices to block all unauthorized users from accessing the data exchanged between its users - including ProtonMail itself.&nbsp;

As well as the benefits that come with end-to-end encryption such as protection from surveillance, hacking, and other security threats, ProtonMail includes additional security features. Two-factor authentication and zero-knowledge password storage further protect user data and make ProtonMail a leading provider of secure communication via email.&nbsp;
<h2>How to Implement End-to-End Encryption&nbsp;</h2>
Whether they are financial institutions, <a href="https://www.dialpad.com/guides/ccaas/" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">CCaaS providers</a>, or insurance companies, today&rsquo;s businesses have more data than ever that needs protecting. If you&rsquo;re looking to up your data protection game with end-to-end encryption, we are here to guide you through three simple tips on implementing it effectively.&nbsp;
<ol>
<li>
<h3 role="presentation">Use strong encryption keys</h3>
</li>
</ol>
If you were going to protect your most prized possessions with a physical lock and key, would you choose a flimsy lock or something more robust? Of course, you would opt for something that was strong and difficult to tamper with. The same should be the case for your digital data.&nbsp;

Data encryption essentially transforms your stored data into a code that can only be deciphered using a special &ldquo;key&rdquo;. This key unlocks the data and makes it readable. Without it, the data makes no sense, so even if someone was able to access it, they wouldn&rsquo;t understand it.&nbsp;

<img height="401" width="602" src="https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/1QPaw3ejzfAJnbgjcWXPxjcrL5p6hh06tAx0EHxUjhBVYL3l9eUj00AhNo5W4D5IDY5bAeucafXOCBuOtX0j4o3LQW0bkYkUcFD-ecALmQN-c2K1j-3WrNSAv7HYVsARx0npxnyMJWwGdggB28rhDto">
Free to use image sourced from Unsplash

Strong encryption keys are essential when it comes to data protection and secure communication with end-to-end encryption. So, how do you create a strong encryption key?

<ul>
<li>
Make it long. It goes without saying that a longer encryption key is harder to crack.&nbsp;
</li>
<li>
Avoid the obvious. As tempting as it is, avoid using personal information such as names or birthdays. These are often easy to find out and therefore easy to guess.&nbsp;
</li>
<li>
Mix it up. Use a mixture of letters, numbers, and special characters to make your encryption key unique.&nbsp;
</li>
<li>
Change it often. It is good practice to regularly update your encryption keys as an extra layer of security.&nbsp;
</li>
</ul>

Remember that your encryption key is protecting your data. Don&rsquo;t underestimate the power of a strong encryption key because the stronger it is, the safer your data is too.&nbsp;

<ol start="2">
<li>
<h3 role="presentation">Use two-factor authentication&nbsp;</h3>
</li>
</ol>
Two-factor authentication (2FA) acts as an additional layer of protection when using end-to-end encryption. 2FA is a security measure that requires an additional form of verification before allowing access to the data in question. Remember that strong lock you&rsquo;ve installed on the front door? This is like needing an extra key to unlock it.&nbsp;

For example, you may enter your password, but then be asked to verify your identity using a specific authentication app or by entering a code sent to your mobile device. If a hacker happens to guess your password, but doesn&rsquo;t have access to your authentication method &ndash; access denied.&nbsp;

When combined with end-to-end encryption, 2FA acts as a deterrent to hackers and gives you peace of mind that your data is highly protected and secure.&nbsp;
<ol start="3">
<li>
<h3 role="presentation">Keep software up to date&nbsp;</h3>
</li>
</ol>
If you&rsquo;ve ever hit &ldquo;snooze&rdquo; on a software update notification, you wouldn&rsquo;t be the only one. However, these updates can often include important security improvements which are essential for data protection and secure communication.&nbsp;

<img height="429" width="602" src="https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/aUAZzF2XnbnvjtvjjjMzNMO-GW-oZB6Vl5wbG51M7O2h_e1OXbrGc1zDFzN5LaWadjkrkaGAcLwYnCAfUD7LTQRGtwnUm7HpZCm91QOhuX59wKvMXpYDwhzrT6yQJoOhFiny6qekb1ier7G0XzkGugo">
Free to use image sourced from Pixabay

The digital realm is fast-paced and ever-evolving, so it makes sense that there is a constant stream of new threats. To ensure you are protected against the latest security threats, you need to keep your software up to date.&nbsp;

In doing so, you maximize the protection you are getting with end-to-end encryption.&nbsp;
<h2>Securing login credentials with end-to-end encryption</h2>
So, are you ready to take your data protection and secure communication to the next level? If so, you need end-to-end encryption services. Using secure encryption keys to protect data while at rest and in transit, end-to-end encryption is designed to prioritize privacy and security.&nbsp;
<a href="https://teampassword.com/" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">TeamPassword</a> keeps your login credentials and other records safe in an AES 256-bit encrypted vault. Each teammate is given their own login to the vault, so that the data is encrypted locally and no one else, not even TeamPassword, can see it.&nbsp;
<a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Try Teampassword FREE for 14 days</a> to get secure sharing, simplified.&nbsp;

Does end-to-end encryption offer better and more secure communication? Find out exactly what end-to-end encryption means, the benefits and how it works.

Does end-to-end encryption offer better and more secure communication? Find out exactly what end-to-end encryption means, the benefits ...

How End-to-End Encryption Ensures Secure Communication

Businesses are always looking for ways to improve cybersecurity, but those improvements can come at a cost to accessibility and productivity.&nbsp;
A zero-trust approach to security is great for protecting your business against cyberattacks but can become a barrier to user experience&mdash;especially when it comes to user verification and secure access.&nbsp;
Adaptive authentication is an intelligent verification system that utilizes ongoing risk assessment to determine a user's login credentials and access permissions.
Instead of a static, one-size-fits-all solution like multi-factor authentication, adaptive authentication is a risk-based authentication method that offers a way to streamline access for trusted users.
In this article, we&rsquo;ll discuss what adaptive authentication is and how you can utilize it to protect your business from cybersecurity threats.

[Table of Contents]
<ul>
<li><a href="#howworks" rel="follow">How does adaptive authentication work?</a></li>
<li><a href="#5ways" rel="follow">5 ways adaptive authentication can protect your enterprise from cyberattacks</a></li>
</ul>
<ol>
<li style="list-style-type: none;">
<ol>
<li><a href="#strengthenscyber" rel="follow">Strengthens cybersecurity across your business</a></li>
<li><a href="#accesscontrols" rel="follow">Provides intelligent user access controls</a></li>
<li><a href="#employeeexperience" rel="follow">Improves the employee user experience</a></li>
<li><a href="#customizable" rel="follow">Highly customizable for your business's unique needs</a></li>
<li><a href="#customerssafe" rel="follow">Provides a better customer experience while keeping customers safe</a></li>
</ol>
</li>
</ol>
<ul>
<li><a href="#adaptivecanprotect" rel="follow">Why adaptive authentication is an essential to cybersecurity</a></li>
</ul>
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/wgKMI4VzQlS0Kaz0dCVx" alt="1 copy.webp" width="500" height="333">
<h2 id="howworks">How does adaptive authentication work?</h2>
Adaptive authentication determines access to organizational systems based on user-defined, ongoing, and dynamic risk assessment.&nbsp;
Here&rsquo;s how it works:
<ol>
<li>A user (employee or customer) inputs their login credentials.</li>
<li>The adaptive authentication system goes into assessment mode, looking at risk factors such as user location, their device, an employee&rsquo;s level of access, etc.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Adaptive authentication determines whether this user&rsquo;s interaction involves high or low-risk activities.</li>
<li>If the interaction is high-risk, the user in question is sent an authentication request to provide additional authentication methods that confirm user identity.</li>
<li>Low-risk activities are determined safe, and the user is allowed access without providing multi-factor authentication (MFA).</li>
<li>The adaptive authentication process doesn&rsquo;t end there; user behavior is continually assessed throughout interactions for signs of suspicious activity, building a risk profile for each user. Users might be prompted to log in again, provide additional verification, or be blocked from access at any time based on ongoing risk assessment.</li>
</ol>
MFA is an important aspect of adaptive authentication.&nbsp;
The point of adaptive authentication is to tighten organizational security while improving user accessibility.&nbsp;
Trusted employees performing low-risk interactions aren&rsquo;t asked to jump through additional verification hoops to do their jobs. And customers are allowed a more user-friendly experience when accessing their accounts from usual locations and devices.&nbsp;
Adaptive authentication uses intelligent risk assessment to streamline and control access.
The risk assessment process is both user-defined by your business and adaptive in real-time using <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/machine-learning-for-cybersecurity" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">machine learning</a> and predictive models.&nbsp;
User-defined risk factors can include:
<ul>
<li>An employee&rsquo;s level of access in the company: organizations often set access controls for various levels of information sensitivity.</li>
<li>The IP address and geographical location of the login attempt: companies might only allow access to sensitive information on-site and from work networks.</li>
<li>The device the user is trying to log in from: for employees, this might mean the difference between a company-issued laptop and a personal laptop. For customers, this might mean a different device than usual.</li>
<li>Multiple failed login attempts: organizations can block access after a certain amount of failed attempts.</li>
</ul>
After user-defined risk factors, AI can take over the authentication process with real-time monitoring. Adaptive authentication uses machine learning algorithms to learn from past user behavior to predict future behavior.
For example, if an employee is trying to log into your <a href="https://www.dialpad.com/blog/contact-center-software/">contact center solutions providers</a>&rsquo; business portal but has multiple security incidents on their record, the system might look at the information they&rsquo;re trying to access, determine its sensitivity, and deem that user a risk.&nbsp;
Once the risk criteria are assessed, adaptive authentication determines whether the user should provide MFA or be locked out of the system entirely.
Some password managers, like <a href="https://teampassword.com/" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">TeamPassword</a>, use adaptive authentication. Account administrators can set each employee's level of access by setting their user role to limit what information the user can see. They can also assign the user to specific groups of records, thereby limiting what accounts the user has access to.
<a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/what-is-a-password-manager" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Password managers</a> often use back-end fraud analytics to monitor user-account access. For instance, a user may be prompted to enter a secondary MFA code if AI determines that a login attempt is a high risk due to the geographic impossibility of recent login attempts or if the attempt was made from an unrecognized device.&nbsp;
The point of adaptive authentication is to tighten organizational cybersecurity while creating a more streamlined and accessible experience for users.

<h2><img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/3zVWdEDsRvCf6D0fowui" alt="2.webp" width="500" height="333"></h2>
<h2 id="5ways">5 ways adaptive authentication can protect your business from cyberattacks</h2>
Now that we understand adaptive authentication, let&rsquo;s look at the benefits it can bring to your organization.&nbsp;

<h3 id="strengthenscyber">1. Strengthens cybersecurity across your business</h3>
Often, the weakest link in any cybersecurity infrastructure is its users.&nbsp;
According to IBM&rsquo;s 2023 Cost of a Data Breach Report, phishing attacks were the most common attack vector for organizations, accounting for <a href="https://www.ibm.com/downloads/cas/E3G5JMBP" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">16%</a> of all data breaches.&nbsp;
Phishing attacks were also the second most costly cyber threat to businesses, after ransomware attacks.
Multi-factor authentication arose as a solution to this issue, but MFA can create friction for users while still having the same vulnerabilities as password-only security.
Adaptive authentication creates additional layers of security based specifically on user data and behavior.&nbsp;
It tackles the weakness head-on, allowing your organization to set the risk factors while also utilizing machine learning to learn, predict, and adapt based on user behavior.&nbsp;
By utilizing user behavior as a learning tool, adaptive authentication creates a stronger cybersecurity environment across your entire organization.

<h3 id="accesscontrols">2. Provides intelligent user access controls</h3>
Access management is important to a business&rsquo; internal cybersecurity.&nbsp;
Access controls manage which employees are allowed secure access to which tools based on user authority and information sensitivity.
Adaptive authentication strengthens access controls by taking those risk factors into account when authenticating.&nbsp;
For example, if a customer support employee with low-security access tries to log into customer financial data, they could be asked to provide an additional layer of security or become blocked from access. This generally works to secure sensitive information.
But if that employee requires this data to quickly resolve a customer issue, you&rsquo;ve created a barrier to their ability to do their job. They might not have the ability to provide MFA on hand or they might be denied access outright.&nbsp;
Then, the whole customer support process is ground to a halt, upsetting the customer and potentially affecting your <a href="https://www.dialpad.com/blog/service-level-call-center/" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">call center service level</a>.
Adaptive authentication can help by determining:
<ul>
<li>
The employee&rsquo;s location
</li>
<li>
The device they&rsquo;re logging in from
</li>
<li>
The employee&rsquo;s role in the company
</li>
<li>
The employee&rsquo;s user access history
</li>
<li>
The employee&rsquo;s past behavior when accessing information outside of their usual permissions
</li>
</ul>
The adaptive authentication system might decide the user passes all these risk criteria and allow access to the sensitive information without any additional barriers.
Often, the first line of defense against a cyberattack is the password protecting the account. That's why and advanced <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/best-password-managers-for-teams" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">password manager built specifically for teams</a>, like TeamPassword, is essential to any business security plan. Password managers allow users to create unique, strong passwords for every account and a way to share and limit access to login credentials so that only the users who need access have access.&nbsp;
Access to your organization&rsquo;s systems isn&rsquo;t a one-size-fits-all solution&mdash;adaptive authentication creates a more streamlined and intelligent system of authentication.

<h3 id="employeeexperience">3. Improves the employee user experience</h3>
Improving your employee experience is an important part of cybersecurity awareness.
Preventing cyberattacks is a company-wide endeavor, with everyone from entry-level employees to cybersecurity experts to C-suite leaders working towards a common goal.&nbsp;
It&rsquo;s easier to get everyone on board when a system makes their lives easier.&nbsp;
Intelligent access controls streamline access to systems and tools, removing unnecessary barriers to an employee&rsquo;s ability to do their job. This cuts down on frustration and wasted time, improving employee morale and productivity, while keeping security at the forefront.

<h3 id="customizable">4. Highly customizable for your business&rsquo; unique needs</h3>
Each business&rsquo; cybersecurity needs are different, and adaptive authentication offers plenty of flexibility.
Your organization can set up its own risk factors based on authentication requirements, industry standards, employee access controls, user roles, whether you&rsquo;ve conducted <a href="https://www.openlegacy.com/blog/legacy-modernization" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">legacy application modernization</a>, and the sensitivity of the data you handle.&nbsp;
Like we said earlier, cybersecurity isn&rsquo;t a one-size-fits-all solution. Adaptive authentication has the flexibility to suit your unique organizational needs.

<h3 id="customerssafe">5. Provides a better customer experience while keeping customers safe</h3>
When multi-factor authentication became the norm, it seemed like a perfect solution to the growing problem of weak passwords, phishing attacks, and cybersecurity breaches.
Unfortunately, MFA can be frustrating. It&rsquo;s a good solution with a sometimes clunky implementation.&nbsp;
As a customer, logging into shopping apps and websites can become exasperating. A customer inputs their login credentials and a notification pops up saying a code has been texted to their mobile device.
Then, the customer realizes their mobile phone is at the other end of the house. Or that they changed their number and forgot to update their personal details. Or that juggling the text screen and the app on their phone while trying to input a long series of digits is actually super irritating.
It&rsquo;s a frustrating customer experience.
Customers who become frustrated with MFA might simply turn off all extra security steps. This puts customers and businesses at risk of financial and&nbsp;<a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/customer-data-security-best-practices" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">data losses</a>.
Adaptive authentication works to create a better system.&nbsp;
It considers risk factors such as customer location (is it different from their usual locations?) and user device (is it a device they&rsquo;ve never logged in from before?) to determine if the customer&rsquo;s login is suspicious. If the login is determined to be safe, the customer is spared multi-factor authentication.
This can help create a more streamlined customer experience.&nbsp;
It also helps to protect customers who don&rsquo;t have additional devices or pathways to set up MFA, or those who don&rsquo;t have the tech literacy to feel comfortable with MFA.&nbsp;
Adaptive authentication creates a more accessible experience for all customers while still emphasizing password security and proper authentication.
<h2><img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/ODthN1V7TQ2BMmxgpMhB" alt="4.webp" width="500" height="333"></h2>
<h2 id="adaptivecanprotect">Why adaptive authentication is essential to cybersecurity</h2>
Cybersecurity is integral to modern business operations. From small businesses that use a work Wi-Fi network to global enterprises with software, social media accounts, and <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/tips-to-manage-a-remote-digital-marketing-team" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">remote workers</a>, the cost of ignoring cybersecurity is high.
Cyberattacks can cause businesses financial, reputational, and legal harm. Anything you can do to tighten up your cybersecurity is a win.
Adaptive authentication is a solution with two major benefits&mdash;it strengthens your organizational security and improves the user experience.&nbsp;
Adaptive authentication can provide user-defined risk assessment to meet every business&rsquo; unique needs. It can also continue to protect your systems using AI predictive models that provide ongoing, real-time risk assessment.
Don&rsquo;t leave any weak spots in your cybersecurity systems. Implement adaptive authentication for a safer, more streamlined operation.&nbsp;

<h2 id="protectbusiness">Protect Your Business with TeamPassword's Adaptive Authentication</h2>
Now that you know what adaptive authentication is and that you need it, you may be wondering where to begin. A great place to start is by using a password manager built specifically for teams.&nbsp;
Whether you're looking to protect your business from <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/how-to-prevent-insider-threats" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">insider threats</a> or <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/third-party-data-breaches-risks" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">third-party data breaches</a>, a password manager streamlines your team's access while protecting those accounts from unauthorised users, or worse, malicious actors. Password managers, like TeamPassword, use Adaptive Authentication and fraud analytics to challenge users who log in from impossible locations, in unusual patterns, or at weird times.&nbsp;
With TeamPassword's user-friendly interface and adaptive authentication, you can rest easy knowing your business is protected. Don't believe us? <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Sign up for a free 14-day trial</a> today and try it yourself.

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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>
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<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.
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<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 ...

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