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

During historical gold rushes, panners and miners flocked in droves, hoping to make their fortunes. In the online age, however, the high-value resource of the day isn&rsquo;t gold; it&rsquo;s information.

Data-driven insights help businesses connect with their target markets. This means better products, more effective ads, and adjusting your business model.

That said, businesses aren&rsquo;t the only ones that benefit from data collection. Malicious actors can use sensitive data for all kinds of purposes, from harassment to financial and identity theft. They may even threaten businesses directly with denial of service or by holding information for ransom.

That&rsquo;s why you need to know everything you can about customer data security.

[Table of Contents]

<ul>
<li>
<a href="#prevalence" rel="follow">The Prevalence of Customer Data Today</a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="#whyessential" rel="follow">Why Strong Cybersecurity is Essential</a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="#bestpractices" rel="follow">10 Customer Data Security Best Practices</a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="#multifaceted" rel="follow">Take a Multi-faceted Approach to Data Security</a>
</li>
</ul>
<h2 id="prevalence">The Prevalence of Customer Data Today</h2>
You might not think of your business as being particularly data-driven, especially if it&rsquo;s a brick-and-mortar store selling physical goods. Yet, even these companies collect valuable data, such as credit card details from non-cash transactions.

These days, even small organizations use data-driven insights to increase conversions and reduce <a href="https://www.dialpad.com/blog/customer-churn/" rel="follow">customer churn</a>. The kinds of customer data you collect can vary widely. Along with transactional info like card details or email addresses, this can include:

<ul>
<li>
Demographic information, such as age, gender, and employment
</li>
<li>
Purchase, subscription, or content viewing histories
</li>
<li>
Medical information
</li>
<li>
Information on friends and family
</li>
</ul>
<h2 id="whyessential">Why Strong Cybersecurity is Essential</h2>
It&rsquo;s essential to have appropriate data <a href="https://teampassword.com/security">security measures</a> for your business. For one thing, you have a moral duty of care to protect sensitive data relating to both your customers and employees. This is especially important for anything considered Personally Identifying Information (PII).

Then there are the legal consequences of failing to provide customer data security and adhere to relevant privacy regulations. This includes state and sector-specific laws like the Health Insurance Portability and Accounting Act.

International businesses must also adhere to the European Union&rsquo;s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Fines for violations can reach tens of millions of dollars or even a percentage of global financial turnover, which can lead to significant financial losses.

<img height="491" width="491" src="https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/nB3dOLBU5JqNIt5t2thUyWDV4a_Va3nTIFWA5cklI2F_laAIVofrW9HqOdNYh7ZdrDxmfIXamjDkKxmrrKZ5ziqK8BfjSRyD9Ztho0qPeyMu6oYZMo69gVjVY48jexAVjMmJ9aEjMF7D5vq11cVdgK0">
<a href="https://www.statista.com/chart/30053/gdpr-data-protection-fines-timeline/">Image Sourced</a> from Statista
<h3>The Rise of Cybercrime</h3>
As computer and IoT technologies continue to advance, so too do the ways in which people break the law. Hackers, scammers, and other malicious online actors keep developing more complex ways of breaking into systems or tricking people.&nbsp;

These include:

<ul>
<li>
Phishing scams via email and social media
</li>
<li>
Malware to steal data or compromise systems
</li>
<li>
Ransomware to lock users out of devices or networks
</li>
<li>
Direct hacking attempts
</li>
<li>
Distributed Denial of Service (DDOS) attacks
</li>
</ul>

As such, the ways businesses secure their customer data need to keep up to protect their business from a potential data breach.
<h2 id="bestpractices">10 Customer Data Security Best Practices</h2>
Now that we&rsquo;ve established the various threats, let&rsquo;s talk tactics. Given how cybersecurity has advanced over the years, you might think you simply need good security software. But technology alone is not enough.

Don&rsquo;t get us wrong: having the right tools is essential, but there&rsquo;s more to it than that. Effective habits for data management and protection are equally as vital.
<h3>1. Regularly Audit Data and Stick to the Essentials</h3>
In theory, the longer your business operates, the more data it&rsquo;ll build up. While this can be useful for things like market research, it also poses a problem. The more data you have, the more damage will be done when it&rsquo;s leaked or stolen.

That&rsquo;s why you need to conduct regular data audits, which serve two functions. First, they&rsquo;re a form of virtual spring cleaning. It&rsquo;s an opportunity to discard old data that&rsquo;s no longer relevant, like personal details for a customer who unsubscribed from your service years ago.

Second, data audits help you to review the forms of data you&rsquo;re collecting and your motivation to do so. If there isn&rsquo;t a coherent reason for collecting a particular kind of information, get rid of it. By focusing strictly on the data you need, you minimize the risk to customers.

<img height="342" width="513" src="https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/zgN_p55h5awJwu2J2hHTr5bIiuMY7Ix_CwTN3ztKXinmBLZnGmGNS0VfZMbZLd7NkZiIHRqyVNppdwnx_k-__XthYarzrT5DgEzzLYkd6yxZTA8tO52ZP0ZgDGIgqsIHl02jWuOYmfWDtW_sojuE4s4">
Free to use image sourced from Unsplash
<h3>2. Form an Effective Data Privacy and Usage Policy</h3>
Your organization&rsquo;s usage and privacy policy forms your first line of defense in effective data protection. This includes everything from data access management protocols to security requirements for employees to use unique passwords.

As for creating a cybersecurity policy, start with the objectives behind it: what you&rsquo;re protecting and why. Then evaluate the risks and potential security threats as well as specific compliance requirements.

You should also make sure your written policy is as jargon-free as possible, so that your people understand it.
<h3>3. Train Staff and Inform Customers About Cybersecurity Practices</h3>
The point of a cybersecurity policy is that even non-tech savvy employees can understand it. But they still need to be trained on best practices.

Teach your team what makes for strong authentication security, how to spot things like phishing scams, and anything else they might need to know.&nbsp;

Cybersecurity training helps employees to identify risks and threats. In turn, this means they&rsquo;ll be less likely to land your business in hot water by making costly mistakes.

Let&rsquo;s look at what this means in practice. Say you run a private medical organization and need to maintain a <a href="https://www.dialpad.com/guides/hipaa-compliant-call-center/">HIPAA compliant call center</a>. You should explain to your staff not to share confidential medical details with anyone other than the patient.

<img height="372" width="602" src="https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/k1cmoaM3JJ6ppMrM5ekyVnv3u84q79gjTlLAvXmd6jPHMtwtSRJdXLJkwmDU-WjqWfyji4L6bPnS0P5X5EKY8GnvjLkTwtjpN1mXu9xgtMEew5erEbFI9REITq_e5GAicsel9XXgDI-NUa0G2N45M8Q">
<a href="https://www.dialpad.com/guides/hipaa-compliant-call-center/">Image Sourced</a> from Dialpad

Beyond training any employees who take calls and manage data using this platform, you should also educate clients. Let them know what privacy measures you take to keep their data safe, and teach them how to use the platform securely.

If every user knows what information can and cannot be shared and with whom, then any unusual requests or behavior will be flagged, thereby mitigating the risk of a security breach.

Emphasizing customer data security practices isn't just the right thing to do; it's also great for your brand. It projects reliability by showing the public you take guarding their private data seriously.

<h3>4. Encrypt All Data</h3>
Now, let&rsquo;s look at some of the most critical cybersecurity techniques, starting with data encryption.&nbsp;

Encryption is the practice of converting sensitive data into a meaningless mess of useless code or text. The only way to revert the data into a usable form is to pass through layers of authentication like passwords or biometrics.

These security measures work as a key that unlocks the information you&rsquo;re accessing. Different types and distinctions of data encryption include:

<ul>
<li>
Bit-length encryption for emails and other communications
</li>
<li>
File-level encryption to protect systems and servers
</li>
<li>
Symmetric and asymmetric (private-key and public-key) encryption
</li>
</ul>
<h3>5. Use Multi-factor Authentication</h3>
<a href="https://teampassword.com/password-generator">Strong passwords</a> might be enough for your personal computer or streaming service accounts, but not for professional data protection. That&rsquo;s why you need to implement multi-factor authentication for all employees.

Users should provide two or more different kinds of security evidence to access data. Different forms of secure authentication include:

<ul>
<li>
Password protection
</li>
<li>
Temporary security codes sent to a preset email
</li>
<li>
Secret security questions
</li>
<li>
Biometrics (such as fingerprints or facial recognition)
</li>
</ul>
<h3>6. Build a Comprehensive Cybersecurity Infrastructure</h3>
So far, we&rsquo;ve touched on a couple of important tools and methods for ensuring security. But, if you&rsquo;re serious about preventing data breaches, there are several more boxes you&rsquo;ll need to tick:

<ul>
<li>
Anti-adware
</li>
<li>
Anti-spyware
</li>
<li>
Virus protection and anti-malware
</li>
<li>
Firewalls
</li>
<li>
Pop-up blockers
</li>
<li>
Vulnerability scanning tools
</li>
<li>
Endpoint detection and response tools
</li>
</ul>

Let&rsquo;s say you run a web domain registrar service like Only Domains, and you recently onboarded numerous new customers through <a href="https://www.onlydomains.com/domains/Qatar/.qa">.com.qa domain registration</a>. Due to gaps in your cybersecurity infrastructure, sensitive client data gets stolen.

Now, those businesses and their websites are at risk &ndash; all because you didn&rsquo;t shore up your anti-malware systems. That won&rsquo;t just negatively affect them, but also the trustworthiness of your brand.

<img height="451" width="602" src="https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/CS69cnz6SxeRiLAO5yt1F4qeaYYhiSwQzfvYgzPrRIlfcDvBduVfr_sR40ELr3Fudmt9UaIQC-BCoVrwL8VAuLhMPZNsY176HzBHTMybpo0dXz8PcbEi6CWv_rzKjcw6NTxSMnXBw3wSoEvqI030OkM">
Free to use image sourced from Unsplash
<h3>7. Keep all Software Updated</h3>
Cybercrime and cybersecurity are locked in a perpetual arms race. If programmers find a way to close a gap in virtual security, criminals respond by finding new workarounds.&nbsp;

Of course, it&rsquo;s easy to think of this in terms of the big developments like the rise of multi-factor authentication, social media-based phishing techniques, or the impact of AI on both sides.

All too often, though, the small advances matter just as much. That&rsquo;s why you need to keep all software updated on a regular schedule. You never know when the latest patch will fix a small but dangerous gap in your security.
<h3>8. Limit Data Access</h3>
Sometimes, your own people can be your worst enemy. Perhaps they&rsquo;re a malicious actor trying to actively leak sensitive information or maybe they&rsquo;re just prone to mistakes. Either way, you need to know <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/how-to-prevent-insider-threats">how to prevent insider threats</a> or at least mitigate their impact.

Limit access to sensitive data based on the Principle of Least Privilege. In other words, only allow people to access data that is demonstrably essential for their work.
<h3>9. Maintain Secure Data Back-ups</h3>
So far, we&rsquo;ve talked about how to protect against phishing, malware and hacking, but what about mistakes and technical problems?

It isn&rsquo;t only the theft of data that can cause problems. Lots of businesses depend on regular access to their databases to be able to provide services, so what happens when your server goes bust?

Some data may be replaceable, but a lot of it isn&rsquo;t. Regular back-ups ensure you&rsquo;ll never be without your company&rsquo;s vital data, even in case of disaster.

Of course, accidents aren&rsquo;t the only reason to keep back-ups. If hackers use ransomware to hold your systems hostage, back-ups mean you can still provide essential services while you resolve the issue.

<h3>10. Use a Password Manager</h3>
<a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/what-is-a-password-manager" rel="follow">Password managers</a> provide one secure location to store your online account login details. Some even allow you save other data such as credit card information, secure notes, and even encrypt attachments.&nbsp;

While most browsers include a password manager, these can only be used by an individual. Saved records cannot be saved and shared with others, which limits their usefulness for a company or organization.&nbsp;

However, there are passwords managers, like TeamPassword, that are <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/best-password-managers-for-teams" rel="follow">built specifically for teams</a>. TeamPassword, and other password managers like it, allow users to share saved records with groups, thereby providing easy access to company accounts that multiple people need to access.&nbsp;

Password managers are an essential tool for any business as they allow administrators to control who has access to which accounts, safely encrypt login details and other saved data, provide logs for audits, and often include MFA.&nbsp;
<h2 id="multifaceted">Take a Multi-faceted Approach to Data Security</h2>
If you only take one lesson from today&rsquo;s blog, let it be this: There&rsquo;s no cure-all magic solution to cybersecurity issues.

For one thing, an effective customer data security plan should make use of the full range of tools available &ndash; anti-malware, multi-factor authentication, data encryption, and so on.

But remember that software is only half the battle. You must also have a comprehensive cybersecurity policy and ensure employees and clients engage with it.

All businesses handle customer data, and keeping it safe is essential. This guide will help you keep customer data secure and build trust.

All businesses handle data, and keeping it safe is easier said than done. That’s why we’ve put together ...

Customer Data Security: 10 Best Practices

All businesses handle data, and keeping it safe is easier said than done. That’s why we’ve put together this best practice guide for customer data security.

Customer Data Security: 10 Best Practices for Ensuring Safety and Trust

Password managers are an effective way to generate, store, use, and even share strong, random passwords securely. They allow users to create and store unique and difficult to guess passwords for every account by removing the need to remember them. This is done using password generators and AES 256 encryption, along with a variety of other features that help users track how their passwords are being used.&nbsp;
[Table of Contents]
<ul>
<li><a href="#whatdo" rel="follow">What do password managers do?</a></li>
<li><a href="#dowork" rel="follow">Do password managers work?</a></li>
<li><a href="#howwork" rel="follow">How does a password manager work?</a></li>
<li><a href="#aresafe" rel="follow">Are password managers safe in 2024?</a></li>
<li><a href="#doneed" rel="follow">Do I need a password manager?</a></li>
<li><a href="#whyuse" rel="follow">Why should you use a password manager?</a></li>
<li><a href="#benefitsof" rel="follow">What are the benefits of using a password manager?</a></li>
<li><a href="#allsame" rel="follow">Are all password managers the same?&nbsp;</a></li>
</ul>
TeamPassword makes it easy to keep your accounts safe from cybercriminals. Don&rsquo;t believe us? Sign up for a <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">14-day free trial today</a> and try for yourself.
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/5EgbpyxIQjSdfdHRsxO9" alt="undefined" width="551" height="367">
<h2 id="whatdo">What do password managers do?</h2>
Simply put, password managers take away the tedious, unfriendly tasks of creating and remembering passwords away from humans. The average person uses over 200 accounts, and each account should have a <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/strong-password-generator">unique, strong, and random password</a>. However, the human brain isn&rsquo;t capable of remembering over 200 long strings of random characters.&nbsp;

(As a test, can you recall your credit and debit card numbers right now? That&rsquo;s only two sets of 16 numbers, and for most people the answer is &ldquo;no.&rdquo; Imagine if they also had upper- and lowercase letters and characters, were even longer, and if you didn&rsquo;t know them by heart you couldn&rsquo;t shop anymore!)

While <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/what-is-a-passphrase">passphrases</a> are a useful memory hack for key account passwords you may need to remember, it&rsquo;s still not a reasonable task to remember over 200 four-word passphrases.

This leads many people to use simple passwords, and then reuse them again and again, which is a huge cybersecurity risk to you and your business.&nbsp;

The solution is to use a password generator so you can generate, save, use, and share unique, difficult-to-crack passwords for every account securely.&nbsp;
<h2 id="dowork">Do password managers work?</h2>
The answer is emphatically &ldquo;yes.&rdquo; Password managers generate a new password for every account for you. They then store them securely until needed. If you choose the <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/best-password-managers-for-teams">right password manager for your team</a>, they can even allow you to share accounts with colleagues without ever sharing the actual credentials.

<a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/how-to-manage-passwords">Password managers are the only way to manage passwords securely and easily.</a>

It&rsquo;s easy to conclude that password managers do work by solving the real human tendency to take shortcuts on password creation and management. In fact, some companies still store passwords in a <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/password-sheet-templates">Google Sheet</a>.

But, how do password managers work?&nbsp;
<h2 id="howwork">How does a password manager work?&nbsp;</h2>

There are really two things to understand about how password managers work:&nbsp;

<ol>
<li>
How do password managers create new passwords?
</li>
<li>
How do password managers store and retrieve passwords securely?
</li>
</ol>
<h3>How do password managers create new passwords?</h3>
<a href="https://teampassword.com/password-generator">Password generators</a> create strong, random passwords for you. They take the rules a website has for creating a password (for example, the maximum number of characters and the types of special characters allowed) and then generate a random password utilizing the maximum number of characters and maximum variety of characters to make the strongest password possible.&nbsp;

These passwords are impossible for humans to remember, but that&rsquo;s okay because the password manager is going to store and retrieve the passwords for you.&nbsp;

So, how do they do that?&nbsp;
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/69xesKUWSv63YFIjhEyc" alt="undefined" width="551" height="367">
<h3>How do password managers store and retrieve passwords securely?</h3>

Without getting too technical, <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/the-best-ways-to-store-passwords-2023">passwords are stored safely in a password vault</a> thanks to two technologies working together: an encryption and a key. Most password managers use 256-bit Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), which is a military-grade cipher adopted by the NSA in 2005.&nbsp;

AES is the encryption, while 256-bit is the key. In essence, AES turns your passwords into gibberish so that a hacker can&rsquo;t see your actual passwords even if they steal the file containing them. Then, 256-bit is a key that tells the system how to turn the gibberish back into the password when you need to use it. The number 256 refers to the 2^256 different possible combinations of zeroes and ones that make up the key. That results in a <a href="https://www.wolframalpha.com/input?i=2%5E256">78-digit number</a>, making it highly unlikely anyone would ever guess the right key.
<h2 id="aresafe">Are password managers safe in 2024?</h2>

Fundamentally, password managers are safe. They use military-grade encryption to store and retrieve passwords and provide a way to create unique passwords that match the maximum complexity allowed by the application.

While it&rsquo;s true that <a href="https://krebsonsecurity.com/2023/09/experts-fear-crooks-are-cracking-keys-stolen-in-lastpass-breach/">LastPass</a> has seen a series of hacks, including having their encryption key stolen, most password managers are very secure. For example, TeamPassword has consistently upgraded their security protocols over the last years to make sure they are many steps ahead of cybercriminals.&nbsp;

<a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/top-5-safest-password-managers">Here&rsquo;s a list of the most secure password managers if you want to be extra careful when selecting one.</a>
<h2 id="doneed">Do I need a password manager?</h2>
Pretty much everyone needs a password manager. If you have any online accounts, then you need a password manager. Thankfully, <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/best-password-manager-for-iphone">Apple</a> and <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/password-manager-for-android">Google</a> have created built-in password managers.While they aren&rsquo;t perfect, they are so far ahead of using the same password for every account that in a very real way they are making the world safer.

The question is really whether Apple Keychain or the Chrome Password Manager are sufficient. If you run a business, share accounts, switch between Apple and Windows environments, or want the added security of creating space between your <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/why-do-hackers-want-your-email-address">email account and password manager</a> account, then you probably need a third-party password manager like TeamPassword.&nbsp;
<h2 id="whyuse">Why should you use a password manager?&nbsp;</h2>
Password managers are easy. That&rsquo;s the real answer. It is a rare case in the world where the easy way is also the right way, but for password managers that&rsquo;s the truth. They make your life easier while also making your Internet use safer.&nbsp;

Once you start using a password manager, you only need to remember your <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/master-password-what-is-it-and-do-i-need-one">master password</a>. That one password unlocks all of your accounts so you don&rsquo;t need to remember over 200 passwords, and you won&rsquo;t be tempted to use the same password for over 200 accounts either.&nbsp;
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/p5LBt2YETmqxABtyNwuA" alt="undefined" width="551" height="367">
<h2 id="benefitsof">What are the benefits of using a password manager?</h2>
Depending on the password manager you choose, there are many benefits to using one. Here are some of the primary benefits of using a password manager:

<ol>
<li>
It&rsquo;s easy: Password managers make it easier to create, store, use, and share passwords.
</li>
<li>
It&rsquo;s secure: Password managers create unique, strong, and random passwords for every new account and then store and retrieve them securely using military-grade encryption.&nbsp;
</li>
<li>
It&rsquo;s collaborative: Using a password manager in your company makes it easier to share needed accounts without sharing the credentials so work can be done together.
</li>
<li>
It&rsquo;s cost effective: Password managers are an inexpensive way to improve cybersecurity, and through sharing expensive accounts securely businesses usually save money overall.
</li>
<li>
It&rsquo;s simple to implement: The right password manager can be set up on all your devices and browsers in minutes and then is unobtrusively waiting in the background for whenever you need it.
</li>
</ol>
<h2 id="allsame">Are all password managers the same?</h2>

While any password manager is better than no password manager, they are not all built the same. Some are locked to a particular system. For example, the iCloud Keychain is only available on your Apple hardware, whereas the Chrome Password Manager only works in the Chrome browser.

Some other password managers require complicated setup as they are open source solutions. For IT professionals, this might be considered a benefit but for most people, even most people in the tech sector, that makes them harder to use (and therefore less likely to be used).

Finally, not all password managers are designed for teams. If your team shares accounts, then you need a password manager that can help you share access to software securely without divulging the login credentials directly. Only TeamPassword is built for teams.
<h2>TeamPassword can keep you and your business safe</h2>
Password managers are an effective way to improve your online safety. They make it easier to manage passwords according to the best practices recommended by cybersecurity professionals.&nbsp;

By providing unique, strong, and random passwords for each new account and then remembering them for you, you're not tempted to reuse easy-to-crack passwords. This keeps every account safe and available when you need them.

Best of all, password managers are easy to use and available automatically through browser extensions. It&rsquo;s rare to find a situation where the easy solution is the best one. With password managers, that&rsquo;s the case.

TeamPassword can protect your important accounts from yourself. Don&rsquo;t believe us? <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">Sign up for a 14-day free trial today</a> and try for yourself.

Password managers aren’t complicated. They create and store hard to guess passwords securely to keep you safe. Here’s what you need to know.

Password managers aren’t complicated. They create and store strong, random passwords securely so you don’t need to remember ...

What is a password manager, and how do they work?

Password managers aren’t complicated. They create and store strong, random passwords securely so you don’t need to remember them. Passwords are saved in an encrypted environment that can only be accessed by a user's unique login. Some are designed for individual use and have limited accessibility, while others are designed for teams and can be accessed on any device or browser.

Look, we all love the shiny promise of a new year. Fresh starts, new tech toys &ndash; it's enough to make you do a celebratory fist pump. But hold on a sec, because while we're busy geeking out over the latest gadgets, cybercriminals are hatching some seriously nasty schemes. Don't get me wrong, the internet's a goldmine for convenience, but it's also a jungle crawling with digital predators.
<h2>Fake and Counterfeit Products</h2>
Online shopping is booming, and cybercriminals are seizing the opportunity. Remember the <a href="https://www.kgw.com/article/news/investigations/oregon-man-selling-fake-counterfeit-n95-masks-covid-charged-federal/283-b6f99c61-ee64-4e62-a25b-d21cc898b85d" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">fake N95 mask sellers</a> of 2023? Get ready for a new wave of tactics. Today's scammers target trending products &ndash; that hot new VR headset everyone's talking about? Fake listings abound. They'll create fake shipping labels, send phony delivery notifications, and do everything to deflect blame when your "cutting-edge meditation lamp" never arrives.
Here's the key: if a deal seems unbelievable, it probably is. Read reviews, stick to reputable retailers, and use a credit card with robust fraud protection. Don't let these digital pirates steal your money and leave you empty-handed.
<h2>Pretend Puppies and Other Pet Scams</h2>
With a large uptick in people turning to the internet to make purchases, many families in recent months have turned to the internet to adopt a pet into their household. This has led to a fivefold increase in pet-related scams, where con artists most often create websites to advertise animals up for adoption that, in the end, don't exist.
The average consumer loses <a href="https://www.fox61.com/article/news/local/outreach/awareness-months/denver-woman-warns-others-after-losing-1000-in-online-puppy-scam/520-1cf9e9e9-617b-42d1-9a21-6b721530a699" target="_blank" rel="noopener">around $1,000</a> to these types of scams and pretend puppies are the most common culprit. However, parrots, cats, and other animals can also be involved in these scams, so you should&nbsp;always do your due diligence.&nbsp;
The pandemic has become a great excuse for not allowing a family to see a pet in person before adoption, and it's also given rise to fraudulent money requests to cover transport cages, shipping costs, and special vaccinations. Pets aren't the only lure, either. A variety of threats have <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/covid-password-management-technologies" target="_blank" rel="noopener">arisen from the pandemic</a>.
<h2>Work-from-Home Scams</h2>
Ah, the work-from-home dream. Flexible hours, sweatpants as your new work uniform &ndash; it's enough to make you want to do a celebratory fist pump.
But reef the sail, sailor, because lurking in the shadows of this digital utopia are cybercriminals just itching to exploit your desire for a comfy home office. Legitimate remote work opportunities exist, but before you start picturing yourself sipping margaritas by the pool while cranking out reports, let's talk about how to <a href="https://www.learnhowtobecome.org/career-resource-center/work-from-home-scams/" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">sniff out the work-from-home scams</a> and avoid becoming yesterday's news.
While these scams often seek to steal sensitive data through phishing and other tactics, they can also try to leach funds from victims, too.
If you're applying for any job opportunity and you receive a "company check" with instructions to cash it right away, don't fall for it. Scammers will ask for you to cash it and then send back a large portion of it using a wire transfer or gift card. They then tell you to purchase equipment with the remainder, but by the time they've received the money you've sent, the check bounces and you're out of cash. Even if the check seemingly clears, no real employer would ever ask you to go through these steps, and the scammer surely has something up their sleeve.
<h2>Government Impersonation Scams</h2>
Across North America, one of the most expensive and widespread scams involves impersonation of government officials. These imposters, often posing as representatives of the IRS, Social Security Administration, or Services Canada, love to play on fear. They'll hit you with threats of legal action, hoping to pressure you into divulging personal information or sending them money.
Here's the golden rule: legitimate government agencies will never use scare tactics. They certainly won't ask for your social security number over the phone, and they definitely won't demand immediate payment via gift card (because, seriously, who does that?).
When Doubt Creeps In, Hang Up and Investigate
If you receive a call from someone claiming to be a government official and they start wielding the legal action hammer, don't panic. Hang up. Take a deep breath, and resist the urge to react impulsively. Instead, verify the caller's information directly. Look for the official phone number of the agency they supposedly represent and contact them yourself to inquire about the issue. Never call back the number displayed on your caller ID &ndash; that could be a one-way ticket to Scam City.
<h2>Protect Yourself Everywhere On The Web</h2>
These scams are a masterclass in how cybercriminals adapt their tactics. They exploit our desire for a good job, the joy of a furry friend, and the fear of getting in trouble with the law. The key to staying safe? Active due diligence. Research any job offer thoroughly, never send money upfront for a pet you haven't met in person, and remember, the IRS isn't going to threaten you with jail time over the phone.
One of the most effective ways to fortify your online defenses is to utilize <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/ultimate-guide-to-password-security-teampassword#createstrongpasswords:~:text=Step%202%3A%20Create%20Passwords%20that%20Do%20Their%20Job" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">strong, unique passwords</a> for every single account. This significantly reduces the risk of falling victim to data breaches and credential stuffing attacks.
Consider a password manager like <a href="https://teampassword.com/" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">TeamPassword</a> &ndash; it's like having a personal security detail for all your login information.
TeamPassword is pleasantly intuitive, frustratingly secure (for threat actors), and predictably affordable. Before you get too excited, <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">use TeamPassword's free trial</a> - no strings attached.&nbsp;
By staying informed, exercising caution, and implementing basic security practices, you can navigate the digital world with confidence, leaving cybercriminals with nothing but frustration and maybe a slightly bruised ego.

Criminals have become more and more sophisticated with each passing year. Here are the cybersecurity threats and scams to avoid in 2024.

Criminals have become more and more sophisticated with each passing year. Here are the cybersecurity threats and scams ...

Avoid these 2024 Scams

The Covid-19 pandemic forced many business leaders and organizations to develop new strategies to accomplish daily tasks and achieve future goals efficiently. One of the most prominent factors contributing to the need for change is the transition of most of the workforce moving to a home or hybrid office. However, one thing that didn't change much is&nbsp;<a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/common-password-problems-faced-small-organizations" target="_blank" rel="noopener">password problems</a>.
In fact, with a largely&nbsp;remote workforce, password problems have grown exponentially. The reason for this is twofold.
One: Hundreds of thousands of remote workers are contributing to password insecurity by not using strong passwords on their home office computers.
Two: Hackers and cybercriminals have increased their efforts on this new crop of targets, successfully breaching a system or network utilizing everything from sophisticated malware to basic phishing emails.
<a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/passkey-technology" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Passkey technology</a> trivializes the fundamental flaw with passwords: namely, that the necessary habits for passwords to work as a secure authentication method (never reuse passwords, always use the longest random password possible) are unenforceable and inconvenient without additional software.&nbsp;
But passkeys are not without their detractors, and new technology means new policies and handbooks before corporations adopt it in the workplace.
Machine learning is all the rage - at least, according to companies with a vested interest in it - and while <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/machine-learning-for-cybersecurity#:~:text=The%20Machine%20Learning%20Double%2DEdged%20Sword" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">it has its applications in cybersecurity,</a> machine learning is going to create as many cybersecurity problems as it solves. 
&nbsp;
<a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" target="_blank" rel="follow noopener">Try a free trial with a password manager </a>and improve password security.
<h2>Password Insecurity In and Out of The Office</h2>
Password insecurity was a significant problem even before the pandemic. As much as business leaders knew that&nbsp;cybersecurity was important, they failed to engage proper cybersecurity protocols or educate employees on the importance of strong passwords. In recent years, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://enterprise.verizon.com/resources/reports/dbir/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">data breach investigations</a>, over 80% of data breaches occur due to poor passwords.
Password problems have persisted at home; according to a&nbsp;<a href="https://services.google.com/fh/files/blogs/google_security_infographic.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Google survey</a> from 2019, 65% of people continue to reuse the same password for multiple online accounts. Many do so simply because they don't want to waste time trying to come up with and remember multiple passwords. Others do it simply because they don't believe they will fall victim to a hacker or cybercriminal. This blatant password insecurity is exactly what cybercriminals are counting on.
<h2>Why Password Problems Continue</h2>
Many business leaders and employers, working both in the office and/or remotely, feel that spending too much time managing passwords for multiple accounts is a waste of time. In an age where speed and ease of use is a top priority for many, spending a few extra seconds to log into an account using 2FA can seem like a frustrating inconvenience.
Yet IT professionals providing services to companies of all sizes, in all industries, know firsthand why a strong password for each account is not only essential but also a critical factor in reducing security risks and preventing data breaches. Despite this knowledge and despite IT professionals' efforts to alert business leaders to the risks associated with password insecurity, weak, easy-to-guess passwords are still in use and mishandled often.
A lack of education about <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/spear-phishing#:~:text=members%20of%20staff.-,How%20do%20you%20prevent%20spear%20phishing%20attacks%3F,-The%20fact%20is" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">phishing emails</a> or risky downloads from untrusted sources is also a primary factor leading to data breaches, as is email and social media account hacking or signing in to sensitive accounts while on a public Wi-Fi network.
<h2>A Solution to Password Problems</h2>
While 2FA is undoubtedly a major deterrent to hackers and cybercriminals, many individuals opt not to use it. It still doesn't solve the problem of weak passwords being utilized for multiple accounts. The solution, therefore, is a&nbsp;<a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/why-do-i-need-a-password-manager" target="_blank" rel="noopener">password manager</a>&nbsp;&mdash; a secure way to store and share logins and passwords for both work and personal use.
A good password manager will eliminate the frustration in having to create and remember multiple passwords, as well as save time logging in to different sites. Users need remember only one login and password combination, and the password manager will do the rest, ensuring smooth operations and advanced security.
Using a password manager also significantly reduces the amount of password use by team members and remote workers, leaving little chance for mishandling of passwords and keeping data protected from those who are unauthorized to access it.
Companies and organizations that have already understood and responded to the need for stronger cybersecurity action are utilizing TeamPassword, a password manager that offers a variety of plan options to suit the needs of any business. A&nbsp;<a href="https://teampassword.com/password-generator" target="_blank" rel="follow noopener">password generator</a>&nbsp;also enables team leaders to create strong passwords with ease quickly. Additional tools serve to&nbsp;increase productivity, speed up onboarding, and help employees avoid setting up duplicate accounts.
See how easy it is up your password security. Try a <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" target="_blank" rel="follow noopener">no-strings-attached free trial</a> today!
<h2>Conclusion</h2>
Like 2FA, many other things can be done to decrease the risk of a data breach or the accidental download of malware. But the first line of defense is still a strong password. A company's network should never be put at risk simply because of a few seconds of inconvenience.

Passkeys and AI have altered the landscape since we published this article in 2021. But passwords are still a problem - and a password manager is still the solution.

Passkeys and AI have altered the landscape since we published this article in 2021. But passwords are still ...

The State of the Password Problem in 2024

The State of the Password Problem

Password managers are critical tools, especially for businesses that use a wide range of apps, platforms, and services daily. And while Keeper offers many benefits, it may not be the best option for you. In this guide, we compare and contrast several Keeper alternatives, so you can make the best choice for your team.
[Table of Contents]
<ul>
<li data-gc-list-depth="1" data-gc-list-style="bullet"><a href="#5featurestolookfor" rel="follow">5 Features to Look for in Password Manager Tools</a></li>
<li data-gc-list-depth="1" data-gc-list-style="bullet">#1. <a href="#teampassword" rel="follow">TeamPassword</a></li>
<li data-gc-list-depth="1" data-gc-list-style="bullet">#2. <a href="#1password" rel="follow">1Password</a></li>
<li data-gc-list-depth="1" data-gc-list-style="bullet">#3. <a href="#LastPass" rel="follow">LastPass</a></li>
<li data-gc-list-depth="1" data-gc-list-style="bullet">#4. <a href="#dashlane" rel="follow">Dashlane</a></li>
<li data-gc-list-depth="1" data-gc-list-style="bullet">#5. <a href="#bitwarden" rel="follow">Bitwarden</a></li>
<li data-gc-list-depth="1" data-gc-list-style="bullet">#6. <a href="#nordpass" rel="follow">NordPass</a></li>
<li data-gc-list-depth="1" data-gc-list-style="bullet">#7. <a href="#keepass" rel="follow">KeePass</a></li>
<li data-gc-list-depth="1" data-gc-list-style="bullet"><a href="#whichpasswordmanager" rel="follow">Which Password Manager Tool Is Right for You?</a></li>
</ul>
<h2 id="5featurestolookfor">5 Features to Look for in Password Manager Tools</h2>
There are many password manager tools out there, but they're not all created equal. There are some key features you must look for when comparing Keeper alternatives.
<h3>#1. Intuitive User Interface</h3>
Working the password manager shouldn't be equivalent to rocket science. Instead, the tool you choose should have a simple and intuitive user interface. As a result, your team can focus less on entering passwords and more on important tasks.
<h3>#2. Easy Password Sharing</h3>
Still sharing passwords via a spreadsheet or another manual tool? A password manager simplifies password sharing by enabling you to share logins and passwords with specific team members or even external collaborators. Plus, you can remove access with just a couple of clicks.
<h3>#3. Robust Security</h3>
The best password managers include robust security features such as two-step verification and AES 256-bit encryption. Make sure the tool you choose is compliant with security standards such as ISO 27001, SOX, and PCI Level 1.
<h3>#4. Auto-Fill Capabilities</h3>
Using auto-fill, your password manager can automatically fill login forms with saved credentials. This further streamlines the login process, reducing the time it takes to switch apps.
<h3>#5. Multi-Device Support</h3>
You should choose a password manager tool that offers multi-device support. This means it's accessible on your team's laptops, mobile devices, or desktops. With full device support, your team can easily log in to their critical apps and services from anywhere.
<h2 id="teampassword" style="text-align: center;">#1. TeamPassword</h2>

<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/rpPzMTSMyzMUwfJKVwwH" alt="undefined" width="731" height="304">
<a href="https://teampassword.com/" data-gc-link="https://teampassword.com/blog/a-better-alternative-to-your-current-password-manager" target="_blank" rel="follow noopener">TeamPassword</a> is built for collaborative teams, including agencies managing multiple client passwords and small businesses looking to improve security across departments.
A feature that sets TeamPassword apart is its user-friendly interface, which simplifies navigation. Not only does this improve daily use, but it also results in simple onboarding when bringing on new team members.
TeamPassword is a streamlined tool that provides the features you need and nothing you don't. It's also affordable.
<a href="https://teampassword.com/pricing" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Pick the tier</a> that actually gives you what you want.
TeamPassword offers its yearly plans for just $1.66 per user per month for the first six months. After six months, the cost rises to $4.16 per month per user, with additional discounts based on plan size.
<h3>TeamPassword Features</h3>
<ul>
<li data-gc-list-depth="1" data-gc-list-style="bullet">Easy accessibility: Team members can log in to their tools and services from virtually any device.</li>
<li data-gc-list-depth="1" data-gc-list-style="bullet">Intuitive user interface: The simple UI results in easy use and a high adoption rate for all the features.</li>
<li data-gc-list-depth="1" data-gc-list-style="bullet">Password sharing: Users can easily share passwords with team members or groups in just a couple of clicks. Access can also be restricted quickly.</li>
<li data-gc-list-depth="1" data-gc-list-style="bullet">Password generator: TeamPassword generates random, strong, and secure passwords on your behalf.</li>
<li data-gc-list-depth="1" data-gc-list-style="bullet">Security features: TeamPassword offers robust <a href="https://teampassword.com/features" data-gc-link="https://teampassword.com/features" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">security features</a> such as two-step verification and encryption.</li>
</ul>
<h2 id="1password" style="text-align: center;">#2. 1Password</h2>

<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/sysUqVPQqK2FVFjIEmLg" alt="undefined" width="736" height="338">
<a href="https://1password.com/" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">1Password</a>, like Keeper, has an automatic form filler for convenience and provides cross-platform support, multi-factor authentication, a password generator, and strong data encryption. These similarities it shares with Keeper make it <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/1password-alternatives" data-gc-link="https://teampassword.com/blog/1password-alternatives" target="_blank" rel="follow noopener">a suitable alternative</a>.
1Password has no free plan, but you can try their premium plan for 14 days. After that, a personal plan costs $2.99. For businesses, the Teams Starter plan costs $19.95 per month for up to 10 people. The Business plan costs $7.99 per user/month.
<h3>1Password Features</h3>
<ul>
<li data-gc-list-depth="1" data-gc-list-style="bullet">Travel mode: With this feature, you can temporarily remove sensitive information from devices when traveling.</li>
<li data-gc-list-depth="1" data-gc-list-style="bullet">Secure document storage: You can easily store sensitive documents like passports, insurance policies, and more, all encrypted and protected by a master password.</li>
<li data-gc-list-depth="1" data-gc-list-style="bullet">Watchtower: Built right into 1Password, Watchtower keeps track of website security concerns and alerts you so you can keep accounts safe.</li>
</ul>
<h2 id="LastPass" style="text-align: center;">#3. LastPass</h2>
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/aikCpCNfScy1bkv5FPGf" alt="undefined" width="732" height="330">
<a href="https://www.lastpass.com/" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">LastPass</a> has the tagline &ldquo;password management from anywhere," which means it prioritizes simple accessibility. Another feature that gives it an edge is its dark web monitoring, which alerts you when your information is at risk. It also reduces the number of passwords you must manage by providing the authenticator as a substitute.
For pricing, business plans are available. The Teams plan is priced at $4.00 per user/month, and the Business plan is priced at $6.00 per user/month.
<h3>LastPass Features</h3>
<ul>
<li data-gc-list-depth="1" data-gc-list-style="bullet">Password generator: The generator provides strong passwords that are difficult to hack, further protecting your sensitive information.</li>
<li data-gc-list-depth="1" data-gc-list-style="bullet">Dark web monitoring: This feature alerts you when there has been a breach of your data so you can take the necessary steps to mitigate the risk.</li>
<li data-gc-list-depth="1" data-gc-list-style="bullet">Storage of digital records: LastPass Vault can store sensitive records such as social security numbers, insurance cards, and payment cards.</li>
</ul>
<h2 id="dashlane" style="text-align: center;">#4. Dashlane</h2>
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/hpQroUUeT9ipTMZEsQGq" alt="undefined" width="730" height="309">
<a href="https://www.dashlane.com/" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Dashlane</a>, <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/dashlane-alternatives" data-gc-link=" https://teampassword.com/blog/dashlane-alternatives" target="_blank" rel="follow noopener">like other Keeper alternatives</a>, shares a host of features with Keeper, including a password generator and password sharing, autofill, and accessibility capabilities. These features are available to help with better organization, speed, and security of online activities. It also has a dark web monitoring feature that alerts you when a data breach occurs.
Starter pricing for Dashlane starts at $2.00 per seat/month for up to 10 users. Larger teams can use the "Team" package, which starts at $5.00 per seat/month.
<h3>Dashlane Features</h3>
<ul>
<li data-gc-list-depth="1" data-gc-list-style="bullet">Password changer: This feature allows you to automatically update your passwords on supported websites with just a few clicks.</li>
<li data-gc-list-depth="1" data-gc-list-style="bullet">Dark web monitoring: This service scans the internet for compromised information and sends alerts if your data is found on the dark web.</li>
<li data-gc-list-depth="1" data-gc-list-style="bullet">Secured note: You can save sensitive information like passport numbers or sensitive business details within the app and grant access only to trusted parties.</li>
</ul>
<h2 id="bitwarden" style="text-align: center;">#5. Bitwarden</h2>
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/3xJkMQFRScNT374cvODA" alt="undefined" width="739" height="306">
<a href="https://bitwarden.com/" data-gc-link="https://bitwarden.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bitwarden</a> is a Keeper alternative that shares similar features like strong encryption, password generation, unlimited device syncing, and zero-knowledge encryption. Security and ease are two top priorities for Bitwarden, which are essential features of password management tools.
While Bitwarden offers personal and family pricing plans, they also offer business pricing starting at $3.00 per user/month.
<h3>Bitwarden Features</h3>
<ul>
<li data-gc-list-depth="1" data-gc-list-style="bullet">Bitwarden Send: This feature allows you to share encrypted information with another person, like passwords or credit card details, and set a self-destruct timer for it.</li>
<li data-gc-list-depth="1" data-gc-list-style="bullet">Secure Notes: This feature serves as secure storage for other types of information that are not passwords.</li>
<li data-gc-list-depth="1" data-gc-list-style="bullet">Vault health reports: These reports analyze the strength and security of your passwords and provide a score for each one. Using this data, you can mitigate future security concerns involving passwords.</li>
</ul>
<h2 id="nordpass" style="text-align: center;">#6. NordPass</h2>
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/GAnmlMPTQaW9cBCBgFxO" alt="undefined" width="733" height="337">
This alternative provides cross-platform access while generating and storing passwords with no storage limits. In addition, it helps store sensitive information securely and organize it into folders for easy and quick access.
<a href="https://nordpass.com/" data-gc-link="https://nordpass.com/" target="_blank" rel="follow noopener">NordPass</a> offers a free version for personal accounts and a paid premium account. As for business pricing, the two-year plan costs $3.59 per user/month with a free trial.
<h3>NordPass Features</h3>
<ul>
<li data-gc-list-depth="1" data-gc-list-style="bullet">Unlimited password, credit card, and note storage: There's no storage limit to the number of passwords or other data you can store in your vault.</li>
<li data-gc-list-depth="1" data-gc-list-style="bullet">Data breach scanner: The scanner alerts you when emails or passwords have been found in a data breach.</li>
<li data-gc-list-depth="1" data-gc-list-style="bullet">Multi-factor authenticator: NordPass uses time-based one-time password (TOTP) and universal two-factor (U2F) authentication to secure your data.</li>
</ul>
<h2 id="keepass" style="text-align: center;">#7. KeePass</h2>
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/c7OB1dT3RgObblyg1FaG" alt="undefined" width="735" height="253">
<a href="https://keepass.info/index.html" data-gc-link="https://keepass.info/index.html">KeePass</a> is an open-source alternative. Like Keeper, it has a strong password generator. It also auto-fills forms for easy login and imports logins from browsers. Unlike Keeper, it's a free option for protecting your passwords.
KeePass can be used for both personal and business purposes. If you&rsquo;re looking for free password manager tools for a large team, this is a good option. However, it will require more technical expertise than other password managers.
<h3>KeePass Features</h3>
<ul>
<li data-gc-list-depth="1" data-gc-list-style="bullet">Random password generator: KeePass generates strong passwords and allows you to determine the parameters of those passwords.</li>
<li data-gc-list-depth="1" data-gc-list-style="bullet">Multiple user keys: One master password can be used to decrypt the database. You can also use key files, which are often more secure than master passwords.</li>
<li data-gc-list-depth="1" data-gc-list-style="bullet">Import and export from many file formats: This allows data from other programs to be easily imported into KeePass and its database to be used in other applications.</li>
</ul>
<h2 id="whichpasswordmanager">Which Password Manager Tool Is Right for You?</h2>
A password manager tool can help you protect your organization's sensitive data. However, all organizations are different&mdash;the right password manager for you will meet your specific needs.
For example, you'll want to make sure the manager is compatible with the apps and services you currently use. You'll also want to choose a tool that fits your security requirements and budget.
<h2>Take TeamPassword for a Test Drive Today</h2>
If you&rsquo;re looking for a solution that's designed specifically for teams with strong encryption algorithms, customizable access controls, and responsive customer support, TeamPassword is a great choice. <a href="https://teampassword.com/pricing" data-gc-link="https://teampassword.com/pricing" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Try TeamPassword today</a> to see how it can help your team securely store, share, and manage your passwords.

Looking for Keeper alternatives? Here, we break down some of the top password manager tools for keeping your passwords secure.

Looking for Keeper alternatives? Here, we break down some of the top password manager tools for keeping your ...

Top 7 Keeper Alternatives for 2024

The cybersecurity landscape is constantly evolving, with cybercriminals adopting ever-more sophisticated tactics to infiltrate networks and steal sensitive data. Fortunately, defenders aren't sitting idle. Machine learning (ML) is emerging as a powerful tool in the fight against cybercrime, offering proactive threat detection, faster response times, and a deeper understanding of attacker behavior. But before we delve into the exciting possibilities, let's establish a common ground.
<h2 data-sourcepos="5:1-5:46">What is Machine Learning in Cybersecurity?</h2>
In simpler terms, machine learning allows computers to "learn" from vast amounts of data without explicit programming. Imagine sifting through mountains of network traffic, security logs, and threat intelligence &ndash; a monumental task for humans but a breeze for ML algorithms. By analyzing these patterns, machines can identify anomalies, predict future attacks, and even automate routine security tasks, freeing up valuable human resources for more strategic endeavors.&nbsp;
So, how exactly does machine learning benefit cybersecurity? Here are a few key areas:
<ul data-sourcepos="11:1-16:0">
<li data-sourcepos="11:1-12:0">
Cyber Threat Detection and Prevention: Machine learning algorithms can analyze vast datasets to identify suspicious patterns in network traffic, emails, and user behavior. This proactive approach allows for earlier detection of threats and faster response times, potentially preventing attacks before they can cause significant damage.
</li>
<li data-sourcepos="13:1-14:0">
Behavior Analysis: Imagine a system that can not only identify suspicious activity but also understand "normal" behavior for a network or individual user. This is the power of behavior analysis with machine learning. By establishing baselines, the system can detect anomalies that deviate from established patterns, potentially uncovering insider threats or targeted attacks.
</li>
<li data-sourcepos="15:1-16:0">
Automate Routine Security Tasks: Security professionals are often bogged down by repetitive tasks such as log analysis and vulnerability scanning. Machine learning can automate these processes, freeing up valuable time and resources for more strategic threat hunting and incident response.
</li>
</ul>
To learn more about the current state of AI and its limitations in cybersecurity, check out our previous blog,&nbsp;<a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/how-is-cybersecurity-ai-being-improved-shortcomings-growth" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">How is Cybersecurity AI Being Improved? Shortcomings and Growth</a>.
<h2 data-sourcepos="17:1-17:36">Key Cybersecurity Trends in 2024</h2>
Now that we understand the power of machine learning, let's explore some key trends shaping the cybersecurity landscape in 2024:
<ul data-sourcepos="21:1-34:0">
<li data-sourcepos="21:1-22:0">
Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs): These sophisticated attackers are notorious for their stealth and persistence. They employ a multi-pronged approach, using social engineering, malware, and zero-day exploits to gain access to a network, steal data, and remain undetected for extended periods. Machine learning is proving to be a game-changer in detecting APTs. By analyzing network traffic patterns, user behavior, and communication logs, ML algorithms can identify subtle anomalies that may indicate an APT attack in progress. This allows security teams to respond swiftly, minimizing the damage caused by these persistent threats.
</li>
<li data-sourcepos="23:1-24:0">
Zero-Day Exploits: These are the nightmares of security professionals. Zero-day exploits target vulnerabilities in software that are previously unknown to security vendors. By the time a patch is developed and deployed, attackers may have already exploited the vulnerability to gain access to systems. While machine learning can't entirely prevent zero-day attacks, it can play a crucial role in identifying systems with potential vulnerabilities. By analyzing network traffic and user behavior, ML algorithms can detect anomalies that may indicate an exploit in progress. This early warning allows security teams to take swift action, such as isolating compromised systems or deploying temporary mitigation measures, until a permanent patch is available.
</li>
<li data-sourcepos="25:1-34:0">
Cloud Security: The rise of remote work and the increasing adoption of cloud services have placed a significant burden on cloud security. Sensitive data is now readily accessible from anywhere in the world, making <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/data-security-for-cloud-computing" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">data security for cloud computing</a> an essential area of education. Fortunately, machine learning offers a powerful arsenal of tools for cloud security:
<ul data-sourcepos="27:5-34:0">
<li data-sourcepos="27:5-28:4">
Predictive Analysis: Machine learning can analyze historical data to predict potential security incidents. This allows security teams to proactively address vulnerabilities and implement preventative measures before an attack occurs.
</li>
<li data-sourcepos="29:5-30:0">
Automated Incident Response: In the unfortunate event of a security breach, machine learning can automate various aspects of the incident response process, such as quarantining infected systems and collecting forensic evidence. This not only reduces the time it takes to identify and contain a breach but also minimizes the potential damage.
</li>
<li data-sourcepos="31:5-32:0">
Fraud Detection: Machine learning algorithms can analyze vast amounts of financial transactions to identify fraudulent activity in real-time. This not only protects businesses from financial losses but also helps to maintain customer trust.
</li>
<li data-sourcepos="33:5-34:0">
Network Traffic Analysis: Machine learning can monitor network traffic for suspicious patterns that may indicate malware, data exfiltration, or other malicious activity. This continuous monitoring allows security teams to identify and address threats quickly.
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h2 data-sourcepos="3:1-3:43">The Machine Learning Double-Edged Sword</h2>
Look, machine learning is the hotshot rookie on the cybersecurity team. It can crunch data faster than you can say "phishing scam," sniff out anomalies like a bloodhound on a bad burrito, and automate tasks that would leave even the most patient security pro begging for a nap. But here's the rub &ndash; it's not Skynet, okay? It can't replace that grizzled veteran security analyst with a sixth sense for trouble.
Over-reliance on automation is a recipe for disaster, leading you to miss subtle threats or unleash a wave of inappropriate responses that'll leave your system more confused than a social media influencer trying to explain blockchain. Remember, folks, context and experience matter &ndash; things a fancy algorithm can't replicate on its own.
<h3 data-sourcepos="7:1-7:479">Benefits of Machine Learning in Cybersecurity</h3>
Traditional security measures are good, but they're like playing whack-a-mole with a particularly persistent rodent. &nbsp;They're reactive, waiting for an attack to happen before they can respond. &nbsp;ML flips the script entirely. &nbsp;It's proactive, constantly analyzing vast amounts of data to identify patterns and anomalies that might signal an impending attack.
Imagine this: a tidal wave of network traffic, emails, and user activity floods your systems every day. &nbsp;Sifting through that data manually is a near-impossible task. &nbsp;But ML algorithms can analyze it all, searching for suspicious patterns that could indicate malware, phishing attempts, or other malicious activity. &nbsp;Think of it as having a tireless security analyst on duty 24/7, scanning your network for even the faintest whiff of trouble.
ML can also automate a bunch of tedious security tasks. &nbsp;Remember those endless hours spent analyzing logs and identifying vulnerabilities? &nbsp;ML can handle that, freeing up your security team to focus on more strategic initiatives like threat hunting and incident response.
Here's the bottom line: machine learning isn't here to replace your security team. &nbsp;It's here to augment them, giving them the tools and insights they need to be more efficient and effective. &nbsp;It's like giving your best soldier a jetpack &ndash; they're still the ones calling the shots, but now they can cover more ground and identify threats faster. &nbsp;In the ever-evolving battle against cybercrime, that's a game-changer.
<h3 data-sourcepos="7:1-7:479">Challenges of Implementing Machine Learning in Cybersecurity</h3>
Machine learning algorithms are only as good as the data they're trained on. Feed them biased data, and you get biased outcomes. This could mean overlooking entire categories of threats. Transparency is key here. We need to be able to see under the hood of these algorithms, understand how they make decisions, and ensure they're not playing favorites with your cybersecurity.
Finally, let's talk about explainability. Sometimes, even with the best intentions, machine learning throws you a curveball. An ML system might flag a particular activity as suspicious, but why? If you can't decipher the logic behind its decision, how can you fix it or improve the model's performance? Security teams need tools to crack the code of these algorithms, understand their reasoning, and ensure they're not just flailing wildly in the dark.
<h2>Upgrade your Cybersecurity with TeamPassword</h2>
Passwords are inconvenient, and people don't tend to handle them wisely. You might be worried about your business passwords right now.&nbsp;
<a href="https://teampassword.com/features" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">TeamPassword</a> synthesizes low-effort implementation, a fast and intuitive UI, affordable price, and industry-standard security.
Feeling skeptical? That's why we offer a <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">no-strings-attached free trial.</a>
<a rel="follow noopener" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://teampassword.com/support" href="https://teampassword.com/support">Reach out to our team</a> if you've got questions or would like a personal demo!

Did you know you can use machine learning for cybersecurity? Come learn our best practices for machine learning and how tools like TeamPassword can serve you!

Did you know you can use machine learning for cybersecurity? Come learn our best practices for machine learning ...

Machine Learning for Cybersecurity | Cybersecurity Trends 2024

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

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

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

10 extremely successful freelancers and what they do

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

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

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