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

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

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

Have I Been Hacked? How to Know for Sure.

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

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

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

Remote workforce: 3 cybersecurity things to remember

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

Adobe is at the heart of most businesses, especially creative agencies running on apps like Photoshop, Illustrator, Dreamweaver, and Premiere Pro, to name a few.&nbsp;
The problem with Adobe is that it's expensive, especially if you're a cash-strapped startup and you have to purchase multiple subscriptions. When added to the other tools and expenses, subscription fees devour cash flow.
Small businesses get around purchasing multiple subscriptions by sharing Adobe cloud credentials with teammates to save costs. Agencies might also have to provide freelancers and contractors temporary access to Adobe services they don't have.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;
If you are sharing Adobe Cloud account credentials, using a password manager can mitigate the risk of unauthorized sharing and access. TeamPassword is an affordable password management solution for teams to share company credentials securely and efficiently. <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">Sign up for a 14-day free trial</a> today!
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
<h2>Important Disclaimer</h2>
It's important to note that sharing Adobe credentials is against the company's terms of use, so there is no feature within the Adobe suite to share a single account with coworkers.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
Adobe's terms of terms state under section 6.2 (C):
You must not misuse the Services or Software. For example, you must not: enable or allow others to use the Services or Software using your account information;
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
However, we understand there are circumstances where you need to share an Adobe account, so this article demonstrates how to do this securely.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
<h2>Adobe Services That Agencies Use Regularly</h2>
Adobe has a massive suite of creative tools and software, but most agencies often use five core products.&nbsp;
Instead of purchasing each separately, it's cheaper to subscribe to the All Apps Business package and share access with teammates. You'll need to calculate how many packages you need for internal teams and possibly an extra one for freelancers to use.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
<h3>Adobe Acrobat</h3>
Adobe Acrobat allows agencies to create, edit, share and sign PDF documents. Adobe Acrobat is essential for sending client proposals, reports and requesting e-signatures for service agreements.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
<h3>Photoshop</h3>
Photoshop is one of Adobe's most popular products because it allows creatives to work with many pixel-based designs, including images, webpages, logos, proposals, and more.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
<h3>Illustrator</h3>
Illustrator is arguably one of the most popular and widely-used vector-based design programs. Creatives use Illustrator to design logos and other graphics.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
<h3>Premiere Pro</h3>
Premiere Pro is an advanced video editing suite agencies often use to create professional video content. Agencies sometimes use Premiere Pro with After Effects to enhance VFX and motion graphics.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
<h3>XD</h3>
Adobe XD is a popular UI/UX design software agencies often use to design websites, applications, and other digital products.&nbsp;&nbsp;
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;
<h3>The Challenges of Sharing an Adobe Account</h3>
<h3>Two Device Limit</h3>
Adobe allows you to sign in to Creative Cloud on two devices. So, effectively you can share a single Adobe account with two teammates.&nbsp;
If you sign into a third device, Adobe will forward you to a webpage displaying your three devices and prompt you to sign out of one.
It might be easier to manage the two-device limit if you're working with remote teams spread across different time zones since employees work at different times.
But, if you're working in the same office, using the same Adobe credentials might require some communication to prevent overlap.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;
<h3>Sharing Adobe Credentials Safely</h3>
Adobe Cloud accounts often contain sensitive client and company data. You must protect this information by ensuring that you <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/how-to-safely-share-passwords-with-coworkers">share passwords safely with coworkers</a>!
Sharing Adobe credentials (or any passwords for that matter) via email, spreadsheets, messaging apps, or digital notepads can expose your company to cybersecurity vulnerabilities.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;
<h2>How to Share an Adobe Account Safely</h2>
While we can't help with Adobe's two-device limit, we can provide a solution for sharing credentials safely, including with freelancers.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
A <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">password manager</a> is the best way to share passwords safely with coworkers. TeamPassword offers a <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">14-day free trial</a> for you to try-before-you-buy!
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
Once you have signed up for a TeamPassword account, you can follow these step-by-step instructions:
<ol>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Invite your teams to TeamPassword, so everyone has a separate login.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Add the Adobe Creative Cloud account(s) you want to share to TeamPassword.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Create groups for each Adobe account to share credentials. You can put all the Adobe accounts into one group, but this might cause confusion.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">If you have two employees per Adobe account, you can pair teammates to share access to a single set of credentials.&nbsp;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Team members can log into Adobe Cloud using one of TeamPassword's browser extensions.</li>
</ol>
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
You can also create a separate TeamPassword account and group to <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/should-i-share-data-with-freelancers">share passwords with freelancers</a>.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;
<h2>What is TeamPassword &amp; How Does it Work?</h2>
Companies can use TeamPassword to store and share all of your company's passwords. Team members can also use the <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">password manager</a> to save individual credentials for email, Slack, cloud services, and other personal logins.
Keeping all of your company's passwords in one secure password manager allows you to mitigate password attacks and other <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/what-is-a-security-audit-and-does-my-business-need-one">security vulnerabilities</a>.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;
<h3>Built for Teams Startups, Small Businesses, &amp; Agencies</h3>
Most enterprise <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/what-is-password-vaulting">password vaults</a> are simply too expensive, with many features small businesses don't need.&nbsp;
We designed TeamPassword because we recognized that many startups, <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/how-to-manage-your-small-business-passwords">small businesses, and marketing agencies often share passwords</a> among coworkers using unsecure methods.
Rather than provide you with services you don't need, TeamPassword focuses on simple, secure, and efficient credential sharing. Our minimalist UI means you can onboard new team members in minutes, maximizing your team's productivity.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
Here's how TeamPassword increases security and productivity with a robust password management solution for small businesses, startups, and agencies.
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<h3>Sharing Access via Groups</h3>
Create groups to share access with coworkers in TeamPassword. You can set these groups up however you like, by department, project, client, etc. You can also create separate groups for different teams with access to the same credentials&mdash;like employees, clients, and contractors.
If someone or an entire group no longer needs access, you can remove them with a single click!
Employees can also use TeamPassword for their other company passwords that they don't need to share. When you create new credentials, TeamPassword gives you two Share with options:
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Only Me (Private)</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Choose one of your groups</li>
</ul>
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<h3>Login From Any Device</h3>
Instead of manually entering a username and password, team members use TeamPassword's browser extensions (Firefox, Chrome, Safari) or mobile app (iOS &amp; Android).
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<h3>Stronger Passwords</h3>
Reusing credentials and weak passwords are two password mistakes small businesses often make. TeamPassword's built-in <a href="https://teampassword.com/password-generator">password generator</a> lets you create strong, unique credentials for every account&mdash;mitigating several security vulnerabilities!&nbsp;
Generate passwords from 12-32 characters using letters (uppercase &amp; lowercase), numbers, and symbols. You can also use our password generator to create <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/best-types-of-usernames-username-ideas-to-make-your-logins-more-secure">unique usernames</a>, enhancing your credential security!
When you reset passwords, TeamPassword automatically updates the credentials for all users so employees can keep working without disruptions.
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<h3>Two-Factor Authentication</h3>
TeamPassword's two-factor authentication (2FA) requires a six-digital Google Authenticator code before a team member can log in. Each employee can also generate security codes so they're never locked out of their TeamPassword account.
If someone manages to steal an employee's TeamPassword credentials, 2FA prevents attackers from a full breach.
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<h3>Activity Log &amp; Email Notifications</h3>
TeamPassword keeps track of every user's action with a date and time log. You can also set up email notifications for instant alerts to sensitive TeamPassword actions, groups, or credentials.
The activity log is also helpful for investigating data breaches, unauthorized access, and sharing.
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<h2>Why You Should Use a Password Manager to Share Credentials</h2>
Most data breaches happen as a result of password attacks and poor credential management policies. Using a password manager reduces the risk of exposing passwords to attackers while giving companies control over sharing and access.
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Here are 5 most common password attacks that a password manager can help prevent:
<ol>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Phishing is a social engineering attack and one of the most common methods criminals use to steal employee credentials. Hackers use spoofed communication to trick employees into sharing their credentials or sensitive information.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Hackers use automated bots on login pages during a brute force attack to try username and password combinations until one works. Most applications use Google reCAPTCHA and 2FA to minimize these attacks, but using random usernames and passwords significantly reduces the likelihood of a brute force attack.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">If your company reuses passwords, you're exposing yourself to a credential stuffing attack where hackers use stolen credentials to log into other applications and services using the same username and password combination.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">A dictionary attack is why you should not rely on team members to create passwords! Most people use familiar password phrases like pets, children, street names, etc. Criminals can research this information through employee bios and social media accounts, building a "dictionary" of information on victims. They add these terms to algorithms that effectively use a more focused brute force attack.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">A man-in-the-middle-attack (MitM) is where hackers intercept data (including passwords) as it's sent from one system to another. Common MitM attack methods include unencrypted WiFi networks or HTTP websites.</li>
</ol>
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By using <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">TeamPassword's password manager</a>, companies can significantly reduce the risk of these common attacks.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;
<h2>Try TeamPassword for Free</h2>
Ready to test TeamPassword with your team? <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">Sign up for a 14-day free trial</a> to experience the security and efficiency of working with TeamPassword!

Adobe Cloud often contain sensitive client and company data. Experience security and efficiency by using TeamPassword's password manager.

Adobe Cloud accounts often contain sensitive client and company data. By using TeamPassword's password manager, companies can significantly ...

Sharing Adobe Cloud credentials with teammates

Adobe Cloud accounts often contain sensitive client and company data. By using TeamPassword's password manager, companies can significantly reduce the risk of common attacks.

Password attacks are usually the primary cause of most <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/category/data-breaches">data breaches</a>. Criminals are constantly searching for password vulnerabilities to access organizations' devices, systems, and networks.&nbsp;
Once attackers breach your company's network, it's extremely difficult to remove them. In some instances, it can take months to remove hackers from a network completely.&nbsp;
With a password manager, businesses can prevent most password attacks. Password managers allow companies to store their credentials in an encrypted platform, preventing hackers from accessing or stealing passwords in the event of a breach.
We designed TeamPassword specifically for small businesses and startups to store and <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/how-to-safely-share-passwords-with-coworkers">share passwords safely with coworkers</a>. TeamPassword is the most affordable password manager using state-of-the-art encryption technology to secure your data.
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<h2>How TeamPassword Prevents Password Attacks</h2>
Most password attacks happen as a result of poor credential management and a lack of employee training. TeamPassword improves your company's password security, mitigating the five common password attacks listed below.
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<h3>Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)</h3>
2FA adds an extra step to each employee's TeamPassword account. If cybercriminals steal an employee's credentials through a successful password attack, 2FA prevents a full breach.
TeamPassword uses Google Authenticator, which is available for iOS and Android devices. Employees need to enter their password and the six-digit TeamPassword code to log into their account.
Team members can also create backup codes, so they're never locked out of their TeamPassword account&mdash;even if they lose their Google Authenticator device.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
<h3>Create Secure Passwords for Every Account</h3>
Weak and reused passwords expose a company to many password vulnerabilities. TeamPassword's built-in <a href="https://teampassword.com/password-generator">password generator</a> ensures you create robust credentials for every account and never reuse the same password.
The password generator lets you create passwords 12-32 characters long using letters (uppercase/lowercase), symbols, and numbers. You can also use our password generator to <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/username-generator-why-you-need-one">create unique usernames</a>, increasing the strength of your company's credentials.
With all your credentials stored inside TeamPassword, you never have to remember usernames and passwords!
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<h3>Activity Logging and Email Notifications</h3>
TeamPassword's activity log records every action team members perform inside the password manager. You can also set up email notifications for sensitive actions or accounts so that you can get ahead of any suspicious activity.
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<h3>Share Passwords Safely</h3>
Password attacks often happen as a result of human error and careless credential management.&nbsp;
TeamPassword allows teams to share passwords securely through the password manager, so you never have to worry about exposing raw credentials through emails, chat apps, spreadsheets, and other unsecure methods.
Instead of entering a username and password, teams use TeamPassword's browser extensions (Firefox, Chrome, Safari) to log into your company's tools, applications, and other accounts.
TeamPassword also has a mobile app for logging in to mobile-only applications. Employees simply copy/paste the credentials they need and log in!
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;
Get started with a <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">14-day free trial</a> and protect your company's digital assets with <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">TeamPassword's robust password manager</a>.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
<h2>5 Most Common Password Attacks</h2>
These are the five most common password attacks criminals use to steal your employee's credentials. Using a <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">password manager</a> can minimize or eliminate these types of attacks.
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<h3>1 - Social Engineering (Phishing)</h3>
Social engineering is an umbrella term for many psychological manipulation attacks. Essentially, social engineering attacks con team members into sharing sensitive information or installing malicious software.
Social engineering is often complicated for employees to identify, and many well-educated professionals from government agencies and multinational corporations fall for these scams.
Criminals often use email to launch phishing attacks but can use text (smishing), social media, phone calls (vishing), and other communication methods. Attackers might also impersonate someone to trick employees into revealing sensitive data&mdash;which is how a 17-year-old managed to <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/what-happened-during-the-twitter-spear-phishing-attack">breach Twitter's networks in 2020</a>.
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Aside from phishing, social engineering attacks also include:
<ol>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Spear-phishing - a targeted attack on a specific group or individual where criminals reveal enough data that victims believe they are communicating with a legitimate source.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Watering hole attack - criminals target a website or platform frequented by a specific group of professionals&mdash;like a chat room for accountants. Attackers look for vulnerabilities in the website to install malicious code. When victims visit the infected website, they simultaneously download malware and trojans, giving attackers remote access to their device and eventually the company's network.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Baiting - hackers leave an infected storage device (USB drive, CD, external hard drive) lying near a target's location. In a bid to find out what's on the drive, victims insert it into their PC, which immediately installs a malicious package, giving hackers remote access.</li>
</ol>
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To prevent social engineering, companies must educate employees and use an effective password management strategy.
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<h3>2 - Man-in-the-Middle-Attack</h3>
A Man-in-the-middle (MitM) attack is where hackers intercept data (passwords included) as it's passed from one system to another. The hackers might relay this information uninterrupted and steal data or manipulate it, so the receiver gets false information.
MitM attacks can happen wherever data passes through a network or from one system to another. For example, if an employee uses an unencrypted public WiFi network, hackers can intercept the data they send and receive&mdash;stealing passwords and other sensitive information.
MitM attacks often happen when websites or servers don't use secure HTTPS encryption. Attackers install malicious code on these websites, allowing them to intercept any data passed through forms&mdash;including usernames and passwords!
In 2017, Equifax had to pull its mobile apps from the Apple App Store and Google Play because it had security flaws vulnerable to MitM attacks with traffic passing through HTTP instead of HTTPS servers.
TeamPassword prevents MitM by hashing, salting, and encrypting your passwords locally on your computer before uploading them to our servers. If attackers manage to intercept data, they're unable to read or decode it!
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<h3>3 - Brute Force Attack</h3>
Hackers use automated tools to crawl websites, trying username and password combinations until they find a match. With tools like Google reCaptcha and two-step authentication, these brute force attacks are less successful than they were ten years ago, but hackers continue to try!
If your company uses the WordFence WordPress plugin, you'll notice bots bombard your website with these sorts of brute force attacks all day, every day.
Brute force attacks are highly effective for hacking accounts where victims use a weak username and password combination. For example, using the company's name or an employee gives attackers half of your credentials.
Creating unique, <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/best-types-of-usernames-username-ideas-to-make-your-logins-more-secure">random usernames</a> paired with a strong password minimizes the chance of falling victim to brute force attacks.
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<h3>4 - Credential Stuffing Attack</h3>
Credential stuffing attacks are similar to brute force attacks and common fallouts from data breaches. Hackers use credentials stolen during a data breach to access other websites and applications where victims might use the same username and password combination.
Criminals auction these stolen credentials on the dark web, often selling the same database to multiple buyers, resulting in attacks from numerous unscrupulous individuals.
Credential stuffing is a fully automated attack system where criminals use bots to visit websites and platforms to find a match.
Credential stuffing attacks are relatively common, and criminals have breached big corporations like Superdrug (UK retailer) and Uber.&nbsp;
In 2016, criminals used stolen credentials from a previous data breach to access one of Uber's private GitHub repositories for the UK and Europe. The 12 Uber employees hadn't activated two-factor authentication, so hackers were able to easily login. The attackers also gained access to Uber's AWS datastore, making off with more than 32 million Uber driver records!
There is an easy solution to eliminate the risk of credential stuffing&mdash;never use the same password more than once! Users should also use two-factor authentication, which will prevent both brute force and credential stuffing attacks.
TeamPassword's <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/password-manager-with-2fa">password manager uses two-factor authentication</a> to prevent attackers from accessing your account, even if they steal an employee's credentials. You can also create backup codes so employees are never locked out of their TeamPassword account.
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<h3>5 - Dictionary Attack</h3>
A dictionary attack is similar to a brute force attack, except criminals narrow down a list of possible passwords. These words or phrases might include an individual's pets, kids, address information, company details, date of births, the platform's name, and other commonly used passwords.
Criminals create an algorithm that cycles through these "dictionary words" until they find a match. How do hackers get this information?
It's freely available on company/personal websites and social media. With less than an hour's research, hackers can learn your pet's and family members' names, when you celebrate birthdays, where you live, work, and go to the gym. They can enter all of these keywords into their algorithm and let bots do the rest.
With TeamPassword's password generator, you never create familiar or recognizable passwords&mdash;eliminating any risk of your company falling victim to dictionary attacks.
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<h2>Try TeamPassword to Protect Your Passwords</h2>
The biggest takeaway from this article is:
<ol>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Never reuse passwords</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Don't create weak passwords or use familiar phrases</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Always use two-factor authentication when it's available</li>
</ol>
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
Protect your company from password attacks with TeamPassword's secure password management solution. <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">Try TeamPassword for 14 days</a> to test sharing passwords safely with your team.

Learn the five most common password attacks criminals use, and how using a password manager can minimize your vulnerability.

Learn the five most common password attacks criminals use, and how using a password manager can minimize your ...

5 most common password attacks

Five most common password attacks

With security threats around every corner, no business, large or small, is safe from cyberattacks. Some cybercriminals want millions of dollars, while others go for easy targets, picking off a few hundred dollars here and there.
These might seem like small sums, but in parts of Eastern Europe and Asia, where the average monthly wage is less than $500, cybercriminals can earn a decent living working just a few hours a week.
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Mitigating security threats starts with effective password management. <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">Sign up for a 14-day trial</a> of TeamPassword's robust credential management solution for small businesses.
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<h2>What are Cybersecurity Threats?</h2>
Cybersecurity or security threats are the risks and vulnerabilities an organization has which are open for attacks. Companies can identify these risks through a comprehensive <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/what-is-a-security-audit-and-does-my-business-need-one">security audit</a> and determine how to mitigate cybersecurity vulnerabilities.
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<h3>Why do Cybercriminals Attack Small Businesses?</h3>
Cybercriminals attack small businesses for many of the same reasons they breach large corporations, including:
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Financial gain</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Sensitive data or intellectual property</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Supply chain attack strategies - infiltrating a weaker network as a conduit to a bigger target</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Ransomware</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Installing malware</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Corporate sabotage or espionage</li>
</ul>
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Small businesses are significantly easier to breach than larger organizations with sophisticated security systems.
Most of the time, it's low-level criminals trying to hack small businesses&mdash;hijacking digital assets, stealing data, or holding systems ransom. Still, occasionally, <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/category/hacking-groups">cyberespionage groups</a> infiltrate small companies to gather intel or as a means to a much larger target.
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<h2>Top 5 Security Threats for Small Businesses</h2>
Small businesses face many security threats every day&mdash;and most of the time, they never realize it!&nbsp;
For example, hackers use automated tools (bots) to crawl platforms and networks, trying username and password combinations in an attempt to breach the system&mdash;sometimes hundreds or thousands of times a day. Firewalls and anti-virus software works in the background, shielding businesses from these constant attacks.
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Here are the top five security threats for small businesses in 2021.&nbsp;
<h3>1 - Reusing and Weak Passwords</h3>
Two of the most common password errors small businesses make are:
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Reusing passwords for multiple accounts</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Using weak, easy to guess passwords</li>
</ul>
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Reusing passwords is a dangerous practice. Hackers only need to steal one set of credentials, and they have access to multiple company accounts using the same password.&nbsp;
Hackers use stolen credentials from a data breach and attempt to use the same username and password for other platforms until they find a match&mdash;also known as a credential stuffing attack.
Weak passwords are also common among small businesses. Team members create weak passwords to manage multiple accounts logins using words anyone can guess.
Using a <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">password manager like TeamPassword</a> can eliminate reusing credentials and weak passwords.&nbsp;
TeamPassword features a <a href="https://teampassword.com/password-generator">password generator</a> so that team members can create and store secure passwords with just a few clicks. You can create passwords from 12-32 characters using uppercase, lowercase, symbols, and numbers.
You can also use TeamPassword's password generator to <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/username-generator-why-you-need-one">create secure usernames</a>, increasing your credential security and mitigating credential and brute force attacks.
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<h3>2 - Poor Password Storage and Sharing</h3>
Small businesses with limited resources often use spreadsheets, emails, or messaging apps to store and <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/how-to-safely-share-passwords-with-coworkers">share passwords with team members</a>. Employees <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/how-to-save-passwords-in-chrome-and-alternatives">save passwords in browsers like Chrome</a>, exposing the company to further vulnerabilities.
These unsecure password storage and sharing methods make it easy for attackers to steal many or all of a company's credentials in a matter of minutes! In some cases, these storage methods could violate GDPR or CCPA regulations.
Secure password storage and sharing must be every company's priority. <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">TeamPassword</a> makes it easy for small businesses to store company and client credentials safely.
TeamPassword is an accredited secure hosting provider using state-of-the-art encryption to store your company's credentials. We use AES 256-bit encryption&mdash;trusted by many multinational organizations and government institutions (including the United States).
TeamPassword also makes it easy to share credentials with team members. You can create groups to share access with only those that need it. When someone no longer needs access, remove them with a single click.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;
Explore more of TeamPassword's security features to protect your business with a <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">free 14-day trial</a>.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
<h3>3 - Social Engineering (Phishing Attacks)</h3>
Social engineering is an umbrella term for multiple types of cyberattacks based on psychological manipulation.&nbsp;
The most common example of social engineering is a phishing attack&mdash;where criminals send "spoof" communications to employees with links that download trojans and malware.
Most phishing attempts arrive via email, but criminals also use text, social media, chat, phone calls, and other communication means.
Spear phishing is a focused phishing attack where criminals use personal information or familiar communications to target a specific individual or group.
Spear phishing attacks can be challenging to identify, often fooling well-trained, security-conscious professionals and government employees.
The only way to combat social engineering attacks is through constant training and even mock drills, so employees learn how to spot inconsistencies and suspicious communications.
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<h3>3 - Malware, Spyware &amp; Ransomware Attacks</h3>
There are many ways cybercriminals deploy malware, spyware, and ransomware attacks. Most often, criminals use social engineering to install these malicious packages, giving them access to a company device or network.
Another method criminals deploy these packages is over public WiFi networks. Criminals often set up spoof networks to mimic a popular local WiFi network, like Starbucks. Anyone logging onto this network will install malicious code, giving attackers access to their device.
Once hackers access one employee's device, they can move laterally through company networks infecting other employees, devices, and networks&mdash;installing malware, spyware, ransomware, or other malicious software.
Small businesses are particularly susceptible to ransomware because they have little or no defense against this sophisticated technology. And don't think criminals are only after the millions from big corporations!&nbsp;
Many low-level cybercriminals will be happy with tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars, money they know small businesses have on hand.
Like with social engineering, combating malicious code comes down to education. Companies must restrict internet browsing and educate employees about the dangers of clicking links or downloads.
Small businesses must also avoid using free software and applications. Criminals often use freeware and free apps to infect devices with malware. Once they have access to your device, it's difficult to remove them, even after deleting the app or with anti-virus software.
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<h3>4 - Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) Attacks</h3>
Cybercriminals use a large number of computers in a coordinated attack on a system&mdash;usually overwhelming the root access authentication in an attempt to shut it down.
Most DDoS attacks aim to create confusion or divert attention from a more subtle breach where hackers can pass through undetected. Like how pickpockets work in a busy public space&mdash;one person creates a distraction while another steals your wallet.
Most small businesses don't have the capacity to deal with DDoS attacks, but tools and systems are available to mitigate the fallout.
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<h3>5 - Insider Threats</h3>
Although more common in large corporations with disgruntled employees, insider threats are still a security threat for small businesses&mdash;which could include contractors, clients, and freelancers.
Insider threats are complicated to identify and defend. One way companies mitigate insider threats is through an effective <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/10-easy-cybersecurity-strategies-for-small-businesses">cybersecurity strategy</a> that limits access to systems, data, and applications.
Small businesses can achieve a similar strategy by using a <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">password manager</a>. With TeamPassword, you can create groups for sharing and only provide access to those who need it.
Using TeamPassword for sharing access to freelancers, temps, and contractors will prevent these individuals from stealing passwords or sharing access. TeamPassword's activity log keeps track of every team member, and you can set up email notifications for instant alerts to sensitive data and applications.
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<h2>Mitigating Security Threats With TeamPassword</h2>
We built TeamPassword to solve many of the security threats small businesses face every day. The biggest small business challenge is managing passwords and providing secure access to team members.
TeamPassword reduces those problems with an affordable password manager for small businesses.&nbsp;
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Here are five reasons to choose TeamPassword for your company's password management solution.
<ol>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Accessible Everywhere - TeamPassword features browser extensions for Chrome, Safari, and Firefox, so your team can use our password manager on their preferred operating system. Additionally, the TeamPassword app provides access to mobile-only applications.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Secure Unique Password Generator - create unique, robust passwords with a single click for every account using TeamPassword's built-in password generator.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) - Team members can secure their TeamPassword account with 2FA. Even if attackers manage to steal an employee's TeamPassword credentials, 2FA prevents a full breach. We use Google Authenticator, available on iOS and Android devices.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Secure Encryption - TeamPassword uses state-of-the-art encryption technology to hash, salt, and encrypt passwords locally on your computer before uploading them to our servers&mdash;mitigating the chance of attackers intercepting your data. With your passwords encrypted in your TeamPassword account, not even our employees can view your data!</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Access Management - Control your company's assets by sharing credentials only with those who need them. Create groups to share access and remove team members when they no longer need it.</li>
</ol>
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
<h3>Get a Free 14-Day Free Trial</h3>
Minimize security threats with an advanced password management solution from TeamPassword. 
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
<a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">Sign up for a 14-day free trial</a> to test our password manager with your team, systems, and assets&mdash;no obligation or credit card required!

These are the top 5 security threats for small businesses, and how to protect against them using a password manager like TeamPassword.

These are the top 5 security threats for small businesses, and how to protect against them using a ...

Top 5 Security Threats for Small Businesses

This article explains what Identity as a Service (IDaas) is, its components, and how businesses can benefit from its level of security.

This article explains what Identity as a Service (IDaas) is, its components, and how businesses can benefit from ...

What is Identity as a Service (IDaaS)?

With cyber threats on the rise, a robust cybersecurity strategy is essential to protect your company, employees, clients, and end-users. If you think cybersecurity strategies are only for large organizations or government agencies, think again.
Criminals are always looking for the low-hanging fruit. Small businesses often have poor or non-existent cybersecurity strategies, with staff whose knowledge doesn't extend past basic phishing attacks&mdash;which most email software filters anyway!
Every company must have a cybersecurity strategy, including solopreneurs and freelancers.&nbsp;
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A good cybersecurity strategy starts with securing your credentials with a password manager. TeamPassword is a password management solution for small businesses. <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">Sign up for a 14-day free trial today</a>!
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<h2>What is a Cybersecurity Strategy?</h2>
A cybersecurity strategy is a three to five-year plan detailing how a company will secure its assets and prevent attacks. Effective cybersecurity strategies are working guidelines, able to evolve and adapt to the ever-changing threat landscape.
A cybersecurity strategy is a preventative approach to cyberattacks with reactive measures for when incidents occur. The goal is to stay one step ahead of attackers, with a plan for all eventualities.
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<h2>How to Develop a Cybersecurity Strategy</h2>
Before you can implement a cybersecurity strategy, you have to take stock of your business and its vulnerabilities. Conducting a <a href="https://www.teampassword.com/blog/what-is-a-security-audit-and-does-my-business-need-one">security audit</a> is one way to establish your baseline from which to build an effective strategy.
<h3>Evaluate the Threat Landscape</h3>
If you're a small business developing a cybersecurity strategy yourself, you must understand the threat landscape concerning your business practices, including the types of vulnerabilities and attacks.
You may also research competitors to see what <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/category/data-breaches">breaches</a> occur at companies like yours. In addition, you'll want to understand cyber-threat trends&mdash;what kinds of attacks are criminals deploying most often?
Make a list of all possible cybersecurity threats in a spreadsheet and prioritize them based on your company's operations.
<h3>Implement a Framework for Cybersecurity Maturity</h3>
With an understanding of the threat landscape, you can begin to assess your company's cybersecurity maturity. The <a href="https://www.nist.gov/cyberframework">National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)</a> provides a framework and extensive training to help businesses manage cybersecurity risk.
Companies must assess all areas of the business, including technology, location/geography, employees, suppliers, and other vulnerabilities.
You can use the NIST framework to look ahead to the next three to five years to determine your goals and objectives for each category. It's critical to prioritize each category relevant to your business.
<h3>Improving Your Cybersecurity</h3>
It's time to identify the tools, training, and procedures required to meet your cybersecurity goals and objectives. Setting KPIs and budgeting resources will enable you to determine a realistic cybersecurity strategy for your business.
Depending on the size of your company, you may need to involve stakeholders from several departments.&nbsp;
<h3>Documenting Your Cybersecurity Strategy</h3>
You must document your cybersecurity strategy so that every team member is aware of key roles and responsibilities. Your cybersecurity strategy should include (this list is not exhaustive):
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Risk assessments</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Cybersecurity plans</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Policies</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Guidelines</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Procedures</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Training</li>
</ul>
Remember that a cybersecurity strategy will grow and evolve with technological and threat changes.
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<h2>Top 10 Cybersecurity Strategies for Small Businesses</h2>
Here are our top 10 cybersecurity strategies for small businesses. This list isn't exhaustive but gives small businesses a great starting point to build an effective cybersecurity strategy.
<h3>1 - Cybersecurity Training</h3>
Team members are your company's first line of defense. Even the most sophisticated cybersecurity technology is ineffective if you don't train and educate your team.
Most hackers breach small businesses through social engineering attacks targeting employees. Continuous training keeps team members up-to-date with the latest scams and tactics.
Cybersecurity training isn't a one-off event. Companies should host monthly or quarterly cybersecurity training to instill best practices. A cybersecurity Slack channel or Wiki is also effective in providing alerts and updates.
The most important thing to reiterate is that employees must never share their system or <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">password manager</a> credentials, even with the CEO or IT head.
<h3>2 - Use a Password Manager</h3>
A password manager protects your company's credentials while preventing unauthorized access to shared accounts like marketing tools, social media platforms, accounting systems, or research tools, to name a few.
TeamPassword's password manager encrypts your passwords, so employees can't preview credentials to share them outside the app.
TeamPassword's <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/why-should-i-use-a-password-generator">built-in password generator</a> ensures you <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/colonial-pipeline-ransomware-attack-dont-reuse-passwords">never reuse credentials</a> or create weak passwords&mdash;which can result in credential stuffing and brute-force attacks.
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<a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">Sign up for a 14-day free trial</a> to explore all of <a href="https://teampassword.com/security">TeamPassword's robust security features</a>.
<h3>3 - Create Access Levels</h3>
Part of your cybersecurity strategy must identify different access levels for employees, freelancers, clients, users, and contractors. Limiting access to data, software, and other systems is an effective way to minimize a breach fallout.
Companies should also recognize that some attacks happen due to internal bad actors&mdash;employees assisting or carrying out an attack.
In 2021, some hackers offered employees up to $1 million to install <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/resources-for-ransomware">ransomware</a> on their company network!
Creating access levels will also help when it comes to sharing credentials through your password manager. For example, in <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">TeamPassword</a>, you can create groups that align with your security access levels to share access with coworkers safely.
<h3>4 - Using VPNs and Firewalls</h3>
Installing firewalls between your office network and the internet prevents outsiders from accessing network data. For remote teams working from home (WFH), invest in similar firewalls for their home networks.&nbsp;
If any WFH team members work with sensitive data, consider installing an additional internet connection at their home used ONLY for your company.
If team members work from coffee shops, coworking spaces, and other public WiFi networks, they must <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/password-manager-and-vpn">use a VPN (virtual private network)</a>.&nbsp;
VPNs and firewalls won't stop all cybercriminals, but they definitely make breaching your network and devices more challenging&mdash;like adding multiple padlocks and locks to a steel door.
<h3>5 - Avoid Using Personal Devices</h3>
Where possible, employees must only use company-issued computers and devices for work. If employees need a company phone, they should not install social media applications, private email, and other personal applications.
Many companies allow employees to open company emails and messaging apps like Slack using their personal devices. If hackers breach your employee's device, they have access to your company's internal communications&mdash;a hazardous cybersecurity scenario.
An attacker can pose as the employee, sending emails and messages malicious links to breach further victims and company networks.
At the very least, employees must not share their devices with friends, family members, and children especially. Kids love to open apps and tapping links and buttons randomly. If a malicious email notification appears, they could innocently install malware on your device.
<h3>6 - Protect Against Viruses, Malware, Spyware, and Ransomware</h3>
Every device should have robust protection against viruses, malware, spyware, and ransomware. You can use your company's cybersecurity messaging channel to notify employees of software updates to ensure you're always getting the best protection.
<h3>7 - Updates &amp; Upgrades</h3>
One of the easiest ways to maintain secure software and hardware is by updating regularly. Product updates provide patches for vulnerabilities or to prevent the latest attacks.
There are countless examples of hackers exploiting product weaknesses to launch an attack. Without regular updates, hackers can exploit these vulnerabilities to breach your systems and networks.
<h3>8 - Securing Networks</h3>
There are many tools and procedures for securing company networks, but the first step is restricting your company's WiFi and internet access.&nbsp;
Install a separate internet connection for visitors, and use an authentication system for team members connecting to your company network.
<h3>9 - Data Backups</h3>
Data backups are critical to minimize the fallout from natural disasters, ransomware attacks, human error, and other catastrophic incidents. Companies should consider both on-site and off-site backups to safeguard against multiple eventualities.
A separate server could provide on-site backup for small businesses, while cloud storage could be an effective off-site solution.
<h3>10 - Secure Your Premises</h3>
Cybersecurity involves effectively protecting your physical assets as well as your digital assets. The most advanced cybersecurity is useless if someone can walk into your office and steal a server!
A company must secure its offices, including internal access to sensitive departments, servers, and other equipment. Your IT department and servers should be access controlled to prevent internal and external attacks.
<h3>Bonus Cybersecurity Strategy&mdash;Avoid Freeware!</h3>
Freeware is free software that often provides the same service and functionality as its premium counterparts.
There are two major freeware issues:
<ol>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Freeware often contain ads or mine and sell your data to make money</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">It's not uncommon for criminals to use freeware to install malicious code</li>
</ol>
Ensure every software or application comes from an accredited organization with a good track record for privacy and security.
For example, <a href="https://teampassword.com/security">TeamPassword is a secure hosting provider</a> with multiple international accreditations. Our <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">password manager</a> encrypts your passwords, so not even our employees or engineers can access your data!
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<h2>Protect Your Credentials With TeamPassword</h2>
Every cybersecurity strategy must provide effective password management processes and procedures.
<a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">TeamPassword is an affordable password management</a> solution for small businesses. Get robust password protection without enterprise software costs.

As an accredited secure hosting provider, you can rest assured TeamPassword gives you safe and reliable password protection.

<a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">Sign up for a 14-day free trial</a> to test TeamPassword for your company's cybersecurity strategy.

with cyber threats on the rise online. Learn what are the !0 easiest and critical ways to protect your buisness data from neferious people.

With cyber threats on the rise online. Learn what are the !0 easiest and critical ways to protect ...

10 Easy Cybersecurity Strategies For Small Businesses

With cyber threats on the rise online. Learn what are the !0 easiest and critical ways to protect your buisness data from neferious people.

Team Password Blog | Category cybersecurity | Page 5

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

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

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

Top 5 Dangerous Ways to Store Your Passwords

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!
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<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!
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<h2>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>
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<h2>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$$w0rd123</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Hashed password: 6AF1CE202340FE71BDB914AD5357E33A6982A63B</li>
</ul>
While this might seem secure, simple hashed passwords aren't hack-proof.
The hash function only creates a unique hash for each password, not each user. So, if multiple users have the password, Pa$$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): 72AE25495A7981C40622D49F9A52E4F1565C90F048F59027BD9C8C8900D5C3D8</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Password two hashed value (SHA256): B4B6603ABC670967E99C7E7F1389E40CD16E78AD38EB1468EC2AA1E62B8BED3A</li>
</ul>
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<h2>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.
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<h2>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.
&rlm;&rlm;&lrm; &lrm;
<a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">Sign up for a 14-day free trial</a> and let TeamPassword secure your company's digital assets.

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

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

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TeamPassword Blog

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

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