Dreaming of a flexible career where you set your own hours and work with clients from around the globe? The rise of the gig economy has made this dream a reality for countless professionals. From graphic designers to writers and developers, freelancers are reshaping the traditional workplace.
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, <a href="https://www.upwork.com/research/freelance-forward-2022" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">freelancers contributed $1.35 trillion to the U.S. economy in annual earnings in 2022, up $50 billion from 2021</a>.&nbsp;Some of the most successful freelancers earn hundreds of thousands of dollars per year through platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, and Toptal.
But what does it take to become a top-earning freelancer? In this post, we'll examine 10 successful individuals who have built thriving careers in the freelance world. By examining their portfolios and successes, we hope to give you a better idea of what's possible in the freelance world, and inspire you to take the leap should you decide that freelance is the right choice for you!
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<h2>10 Successful Freelancers</h2>
Here are ten successful freelancers and what they do. These freelancers have earned their place as experts in their given field with excellent track records&mdash;many have worked with the biggest companies in the world!
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<h3>1. Scott Luscombe - Graphic Designer / Shopify Expert / Website Developer / Copywriter&nbsp; - Canada</h3>
Scott Luscombe is a freelance graphic designer, Shopify expert, website developer, and copywriter from Uxbridge, Canada. He holds a degree in Illustration from Sheridan College and a degree in Marketing from the University of Toronto.
Scott has been a freelancer for most of his professional career and has earned over $500k on Upwork. He has completed over 311 jobs and worked&nbsp;10,956 hours!&nbsp;
Scott's work includes graphic design and branding, illustration and icons, copywriting, website design and development, UX/UI, and printing and packaging. He also provides freelance coaching and consulting. Scott is a Top Rated Upwork Freelancer currently charging $99 per hour for various creative gigs.
Some of Scott's most notable work includes designs for Coca-Cola, the Canadian Cancer Society, Nickelodeon, and Wallet Ninja (to name a few).&nbsp;
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<h3>2. Kathy Edens - Marketing Consultant / Freelance Copywriter - United States</h3>
<a href="https://www.upwork.com/freelancers/~016177d19f0624c1a7?viewMode=1" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">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" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">portfolio website Koenvo</a> was nominated for a <a href="https://www.awwwards.com/sites/koenvo-ui-ux-portfolio" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">2021 awwwards Award</a>.
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/IOmtrbdOQZev1mS8Jc33" alt="undefined" width="650" height="433">&nbsp;Image by Freepik&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
<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/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">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" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">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="nofollow 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/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Marcos Rezende's website</a> was nominated for the prestigious <a href="https://www.awwwards.com/sites/ux-portfolio-marcos-rezende" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">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" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">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/signup" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">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.
On the Enterprise plan, you can even <a href="https://teampassword.com/one-time-secret?navbar=onetimesecret" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">share a one-time password link</a>.&nbsp;
<a href="https://teampassword.com/" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">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" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">password generator</a> lets you create secure passwords between 12-32 characters using numbers, letters (uppercase/lowercase), and symbols.
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/tj8gEkSCTwiowMUAocHy" alt="Built-in password generator.gif" width="400" height="305"> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
Ready to onboard clients and freelancers securely with TeamPassword's robust password management solution? <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">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!

The remote work surge of the pandemic era has permanently reshaped the corporate landscape. According to <a href="https://speakwiseapp.com/blog/hybrid-work-statistics" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">2026 data from Gallup</a>, 8 in 10 knowledge workers now have some form of location flexibility, with 53% of remote-capable employees working a structured hybrid schedule.
As organizations solidify these <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/remote-workforce-3-cybersecurity-things-to-remember" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">remote and hybrid work models</a>, the BYOD (bring your own device) policy phenomenon remains a central challenge. In this article, we'll dive into seven major cybersecurity risks associated with using personal devices for work, and offer practical tips to help you avoid potential pitfalls, with particular attention given to the relatively new threat avenues created by artificial intelligence.&nbsp;
<h2>The Top Cybersecurity Risks of Bring Your Own Device Policies</h2>
In this world of remote and hybrid work, many of us have traded in our office desks for cozy kitchen tables and swapped suits for sweatpants. The convenience of smartphones, tablets, and laptops has revolutionized how we work, allowing us to access emails, systems, and files anytime, anywhere.
While the ability to seamlessly switch between devices is undeniably alluring, BYOD practices <a href="https://goabacus.com/how-a-byod-policy-might-be-putting-your-companys-network-at-risk/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">can expose businesses</a> to a host of cybersecurity threats, making it essential for IT teams to adopt proactive measures that help keep these risks at bay.
<h3>1. Data Leakage</h3>
Data leakage occurs when sensitive information, such as company files or personal information, is unintentionally exposed or shared. This risk is particularly high with personal devices as they are often used to access both work and personal accounts, making it easier for data to be accidentally shared, misplaced, or intercepted like in a <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/man-in-the-middle-attack" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">man-in-the-middle attack</a>.
Employees may also use unsecured or public Wi-Fi networks to access company resources, which can lead to data interception. Moreover, personal devices often lack the same security measures as corporate-owned devices, like data encryption, secure boot, or Zero Trust network access.
<h4>The Rise of <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/local-ai-credential-risks" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Shadow AI</a></h4>
Employees love using AI to make their jobs easier, but they often do so using personal, unsanctioned AI tools on their personal devices&mdash;a phenomenon known as "Shadow AI." A <a href="https://writer.com/blog/enterprise-ai-adoption-2026/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">2026 enterprise survey</a> found that while 97% of executives deployed AI agents in the past year, 67% believe their company has already suffered a data leak due to an employee using an unapproved AI tool. Employees might copy and paste sensitive corporate data (like meeting transcripts or proprietary code) into personal AI assistants or autonomous agents running on their phones. Because these are personal accounts, the company has zero visibility or control over where that data goes.
<h4>How to Prevent Data Leakage</h4>
<a href="https://www.upguard.com/blog/data-leak-prevention-tips" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Data leakage</a> occurs when sensitive information is inadvertently or intentionally disclosed to unauthorized individuals. Here are some effective strategies companies can implement to mitigate this risk:
Mobile Device Management (MDM) Systems
<ul>
<li>Centralized control: MDM systems allow organizations to manage and monitor employee devices remotely, ensuring compliance with security policies.</li>
<li>Remote wipe: If a device is lost or stolen, MDM can remotely erase sensitive data to prevent unauthorized access.</li>
<li>App management: Organizations can restrict the installation of potentially harmful or unsanctioned AI apps and enforce usage policies.</li>
</ul>
Strong Security Protocols
<ul>
<li>Data encryption: Encrypting data both at rest and in transit ensures that even if it's intercepted, it remains inaccessible.</li>
<li>Regular software updates: Keeping operating systems and applications up-to-date patches vulnerabilities that could be exploited by attackers.</li>
<li>Access controls: Implement granular access controls to limit user permissions based on their roles and responsibilities.</li>
</ul>
Employee Training and Awareness
<ul>
<li>Security training: Educate employees about common data leakage threats, best practices for handling sensitive information, and the dangers of Shadow AI.</li>
<li>Phishing awareness: Train employees to recognize and avoid phishing attempts that can trick them into disclosing sensitive data.</li>
<li>Social engineering prevention: Teach employees how to identify and resist social engineering tactics used to manipulate them into sharing confidential information.</li>
</ul>
Clear Usage Guidelines
<ul>
<li>Acceptable use policies: Develop clear policies that outline acceptable device usage, including guidelines for handling sensitive data and personal AI tools in the workplace.</li>
<li>Data classification: Implement a data classification system to identify and categorize sensitive information based on its value and risk.</li>
<li>Data retention policies: Establish guidelines for data retention and disposal to minimize the risk of unauthorized access to outdated or unnecessary information.</li>
</ul>
<img alt="Data Leakage Concept" src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/5dnwwUSrStGy6rxeH6sY" width="775" height="407">
<h3>2. Malware Infection</h3>
Malware infections pose another significant cybersecurity risk for organizations that allow employees to use personal devices for work.
Personal devices are more likely to be infected with malware, as users may <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesbusinesscouncil/2023/01/30/why-cybersecurity-regulations-and-oversight-are-as-important-as-safety-standards-in-the-modern-workplace/?sh=4444e5905464" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">not adhere to the same security standards</a> they would when using a company-owned device. They might download apps from untrusted sources or visit unsafe websites, potentially exposing their devices to malware infections.
Once a personal device is infected, the malware can easily spread to the corporate network when the user connects their device to it. Malware can also spread through the organization's cloud services, email, or file-sharing platforms.
<h4>How to Prevent Malware Infection</h4>
To mitigate malware infection concerns, companies should:
<ul>
<li>Utilize Mobile Threat Defense (MTD) &amp; EDR: Move beyond basic antivirus. Ensure devices utilize modern Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) or MTD solutions to detect anomalous behaviors and advanced threats.</li>
<li>Conduct regular security scans: Perform frequent scans of devices to identify and address potential vulnerabilities.</li>
<li>Educate employees: Train employees on safe browsing practices, such as avoiding suspicious websites and clicking on unknown links.</li>
<li>Promote Zero Trust Architecture: Move away from traditional VPNs to a <a href="https://www.techtarget.com/searchnetworking/definition/network-security" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Zero Trust framework</a> that verifies every connection and device state before granting access to company resources.</li>
</ul>
<h3>3. Insufficient Security Controls</h3>
Personal devices often lack the security controls and monitoring capabilities found on corporate-owned devices. Companies may find it challenging to enforce security policies or remotely manage these devices, leading to weaker overall security. For example, a personal device may not have the latest security patches installed, leaving it vulnerable to known exploits.
Additionally, employees may not have the same awareness regarding cybersecurity practices on their personal devices as they do on their work devices. This can result in weak or reused passwords, a lack of two-factor authentication, or failure to lock devices when not in use.
<h4>How to Improve Security Controls</h4>
Companies can bolster their security posture by <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/how-to-protect-company-information-when-an-employee-leaves" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">implementing stringent access controls</a>. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) and modern Passkeys&mdash;which replace passwords with on-device biometric authentication&mdash;add a significant layer of protection against unauthorized access. Role-based permissions ensure that individuals only have access to the data and systems necessary for their job functions.
Regular auditing and updating of security measures are essential to maintain a robust security framework. Security assessments can identify vulnerabilities and outdated practices, allowing organizations to take proactive steps to address them.
A simple yet effective way to mitigate security risks is by utilizing <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/best-password-managers-for-teams" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">password management solutions</a>. These tools allow employees to safely generate, store, and share strong credentials and Passkeys, keeping accounts secure without relying on human memory.
<img alt="Security Controls Checklist" src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/aT5ZbQMR2mP3iiCB6ck6" width="817" height="429">
<h3>4. Phishing Attacks</h3>
<a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/spear-phishing" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Phishing attacks</a> remain a top cybersecurity risk for organizations, and using personal devices for work can exacerbate this threat. Employees may be more susceptible to phishing attacks on their personal devices, as they may not be as vigilant about scrutinizing emails or messages from unknown sources.
<h4>AI-Powered Spear-Phishing</h4>
Phishing is no longer just broken English emails from fake royalty; autonomous agents can now execute highly targeted attacks at scale. Attackers can use AI agents to scrape an employee's personal social media apps (which live right next to their corporate email on a BYOD phone) to craft hyper-personalized, context-aware text messages or emails. Attackers are even utilizing AI deepfake audio&mdash;leaving voicemails on a personal phone that sound exactly like the CEO, bypassing traditional corporate email filters entirely.
<h4>How to Prevent Phishing Attacks</h4>
To prevent potential phishing attacks, companies should <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/how-to-talk-to-remote-employees-about-cybersecurity" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">provide ongoing cybersecurity training</a> emphasizing AI-phishing awareness and teach employees to recognize, verify, and report suspicious requests. Implementing advanced email filtering technologies and encouraging a culture of "verify before clicking" can help block these threats before they cause damage.
<h3>5. Unauthorized Access to Sensitive Information</h3>
When personal devices are used for work, there is an increased risk of unauthorized access to sensitive corporate data. This can occur if the device is lost, stolen, or left unattended, allowing unauthorized individuals to access the device.
Personal devices often lack the advanced security features of corporate-owned devices, such as encryption, <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/tips-and-tricks-to-create-a-strong-password" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">strong passwords</a>, and multi-factor authentication. Furthermore, personal devices are more likely to be shared among family members or friends, increasing the risk of unintentional access to confidential data.
<h4>How to Prevent Access to Sensitive Information</h4>
Companies can prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information by implementing strict access controls, such as MFA, role-based permissions, and Zero Trust models. Furthermore, using AI-powered tools to log user activity and monitor behavior can help detect potential security breaches, such as unusual login patterns.
As threat actors increasingly use AI to breach networks, the use of AI in corporate cybersecurity is skyrocketing. <a href="https://cxovoice.com/70-ai-statistics-2026-adoption-market-size-enterprise-trends-global-india/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Gartner projects</a> that global AI cybersecurity spending will reach $51.3 billion in 2026 as organizations race to upgrade their defenses against these automated, evolving threats.
<img alt="Unauthorized Access Prevention" src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/zIaSmxWgQcSkioNFOZh0">
<h3>6. Inconsistent Software Updates and Patches</h3>
Personal devices typically have inconsistent software updates and patches, leaving them vulnerable to cybersecurity threats. Users may neglect to update their devices or applications regularly, as they are not managed by an IT department that enforces timely updates.
Outdated software and apps may contain exploitable security vulnerabilities, which can expose an organization's network and data to potential attacks, as a compromised personal device can <a href="https://www.ibm.com/topics/attack-surface" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">serve as an entry point for attackers</a> to infiltrate the company's systems.
<h4>How to Keep Software Up-to-Date</h4>
Companies can maintain consistent software updates and patches in BYOD environments by enforcing a policy requiring employees to regularly update their devices' operating systems and applications. On top of this, incorporating MDM solutions can help monitor, manage, and enforce software updates across all personal devices accessing the corporate network.
<h3>7. Adaptive and Autonomous Malware</h3>
Traditional malware relied on static scripts and known signatures, but modern attackers are increasingly deploying autonomous AI agents. If a BYOD phone is infected, an autonomous agent can actively map the device in the background, identify which operating system version it is running (which, as noted above, is often unpatched), and dynamically write custom code to exploit that specific vulnerability without needing real-time instructions from a human hacker. Because personal devices are often outside the corporate firewall, these adaptive threats can quietly establish a foothold before attempting to pivot into the corporate network.
<h4>How to Defend Against Autonomous Malware</h4>
Defending against AI-driven malware requires AI-driven defenses. Organizations must deploy advanced behavioral analytics and AI-powered endpoint protection that can detect the behavior of malicious agents, rather than relying on known, outdated threat signatures.
<h2>Find the Right Cybersecurity Solution for Your Organization</h2>
Using personal devices for work comes with several cybersecurity risks that companies must address proactively. While organizations can take steps to mitigate these risks, one crucial aspect that they cannot overlook is the effective management of credentials. A secure and efficient way to manage both passwords and Passkeys is by using a dedicated solution like <a href="https://teampassword.com/" rel="follow noopener">TeamPassword</a>.
TeamPassword provides an encrypted platform that enables users to store strong, unique credentials for every account. This level of security ensures the protection of sensitive data and helps prevent unauthorized access to personal and work-related accounts.
As an individual, it's essential to understand the importance of credential security and how it impacts the safety of your personal and work-related data. By using a trusted password manager like TeamPassword, you can confidently navigate the digital landscape without compromising your organization's overall security.
<a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Start your free trial now!</a>

Bring your own device policies are more common than ever, but they aren't without risks. Here are the top risks and how to avoid them.

Bring your own device policies are increasingly popular as remote work trends continue. With them come risks. This ...

7 Cybersecurity Risks of BYOD Policies

Bring your own device policies are increasingly popular as remote work trends continue. With them come risks. This article explains cybersecurity risks of using personal devices for work and how to avoid them.

7 Cybersecurity Risks of Using Personal Devices for Work

iCloud Keychain is Apple's password management system. So how good is Apple's password management software? And what can it do for you?

iCloud Keychain is Apple's password management system. So how good is Apple's password management software? And what can ...

What is iCloud Keychain and Is It a Good Password Manager

What is iCloud Keychain, and Is It a Good Password Manager?

We love Google. It can be used daily to search, email, store, and share documents and keep our lives in and outside of work more organized. Honestly, how did we ever function without it?
For a company that has no system in place to keep track of their passwords, Google Sheets seems a logical place to start. It allows you to separate, label, and categorize, plus it autosaves your work. It gives some level of access control as to who can view, edit, and comment on a document. It's free, and almost everyone is already using it.
<h2>Is Google Sheets Secure?</h2>
The question of Google Sheet's security often arises due to the sensitive data that users might store within these sheets. Let's delve into whether Google Sheets is secure or not, along with supporting reasons for both sides.
<h3>How Google Sheets Ensures Security</h3>
<ol>
<li>
Data Encryption &amp; CSE: Google Sheets utilizes industry-standard encryption, including TLS (Transport Layer Security) to secure data in transit and AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) to protect data at rest on their servers. This encryption helps ensure that data remains unreadable to unauthorized parties, providing strong protection during both storage and transfer. Additionally, Google now offers Client-Side Encryption (CSE) for paid Workspace users. With CSE, data is encrypted on your device before it ever reaches Google's servers, meaning Google has zero access to the encryption keys.
</li>
<li>
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) &amp; Passkeys: Google enhances account security by offering 2FA, requiring a secondary form of verification&mdash;like a texted or app-generated code&mdash;to access your account. This additional layer of security helps prevent unauthorized access, even if someone acquires your password. Furthermore, Google now supports Passkeys as a primary, highly secure login method. Passkeys replace traditional passwords altogether, utilizing your device's biometric authentication (like Face ID or a fingerprint) to verify your identity. <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/passkey-technology" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Read our guide to learn more about passkey technology</a>.
</li>
<li>
Granular Access Controls: Google Sheets gives users flexible options for managing access to their documents. You can set permissions on a granular level, sharing sheets with specific individuals, and defining whether they can view, comment, or edit. This level of control helps ensure that sensitive information is only accessible to authorized collaborators.
</li>
<li>
Activity Monitoring and Alerts: Google offers activity tracking across all Workspace tools, including Google Sheets. Users can view recent activity, check who accessed or edited the document, and receive alerts for suspicious account activity, helping detect unauthorized access early.
</li>
</ol>
<h3>Potential Security Risks with Google Sheets</h3>
<ol>
<li>
Data Breaches: While Google has extensive security infrastructure, no system is entirely immune to breaches. There have been incidents of large-scale breaches affecting Google services over the years. Although rare, these events highlight the inherent risks of storing sensitive information in cloud services.
</li>
<li>
Third-Party Add-Ons: Google Sheets supports numerous third-party add-ons to extend its functionality, some of which may request access to your data. While Google screens these add-ons, a security risk remains if malicious add-ons slip through or if certain add-ons request excessive permissions. Always review permission requests carefully before installing any third-party tools.
</li>
<li>
Account Compromise: If your Google account credentials are compromised, an attacker could access not just your Google Sheets but all associated Google services. To mitigate this risk, use a strong, unique password, enable 2FA or Passkeys, and consider using Google&rsquo;s Advanced Protection Program for high-security needs.
</li>
<li>
Data Residuals and Sharing Risks: While sharing permissions can be revoked, there's always the risk that shared data may have been copied or downloaded by a recipient, making it difficult to fully retract access. For sensitive or confidential data, additional precautions like restricting sharing permissions and using access expiration features are advisable.
</li>
</ol>
<h2>Why You Should Not Store Passwords in Google Sheets</h2>
There are three main areas of concern when Google Sheets becomes the sole keeper of your passwords. Let's break down what they are.
<h3>#1. Security Concerns</h3>
<ul>
<li>
Encryption Limitations (Standard vs. Enterprise): It is crucial to understand how Google encrypts your data, and where those protections fall short for password management.
<ul>
<li>Standard Sheets (Free &amp; Basic Accounts): By default, Google protects your data using standard encryption in transit (TLS) and at rest (AES-256). However, Google manages these encryption keys. This means if a bad actor gains access to your Google account, they can simply open the sheet and all data is instantly decrypted and readable.</li>
<li>Enterprise Sheets (CSE): For paid Workspace users, Google offers Client-Side Encryption (CSE). With CSE, the data is encrypted on your device before it ever reaches Google's servers, and your organization maintains sole control of the encryption keys. This creates a highly secure, zero-knowledge environment where not even Google can access your data.</li>
<li>The Fundamental Flaw: Regardless of whether you use standard encryption or Enterprise CSE, spreadsheets are built for data visibility. Once an authorized user opens the document, every password is exposed in plain text on the screen. Strong file encryption prevents external interception, but it does absolutely nothing to mask sensitive fields, clear your clipboard, or protect against unauthorized viewing once the spreadsheet is actually open.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Sharing Risks: Google Sheets allows you to share documents with others, granting varying levels of access. This flexibility can be a double-edged sword. If you accidentally share a password sheet with the wrong person, or if someone with malicious intent gains access, the consequences can be severe.</li>
<li>Other Vulnerabilities: Beyond encryption and sharing, Google Sheets is susceptible to other security threats. For example, phishing attacks can trick users into revealing their Google account credentials, granting attackers access to your password spreadsheet. Additionally, there's always the risk of human error, such as accidentally leaving a spreadsheet open in a public space.</li>
</ul>
<h3>#2. Operational Challenges</h3>
<blockquote>
Managing passwords in Google Sheets can quickly become a logistical nightmare. You'll likely find yourself creating multiple spreadsheets to control who can view specific password information. This introduces complexity and inefficiency into your workflow.
For instance, granting someone view-only access might seem like a good idea, but what happens when they need to create a new account? You'll need to involve the spreadsheet owner to update the password information. On the other hand, giving everyone edit access exposes sensitive data to potential human error and malicious activities.
</blockquote>
<h3>#3. Time and Resource Constraints</h3>
<blockquote>
Maintaining multiple password spreadsheets with varying security levels is time-consuming and requires constant management. This diverts valuable resources away from your core responsibilities.
Moreover, if you manage passwords for clients, you open yourself up to additional liabilities. Clients expect their information to be handled securely, and using Google Sheets for password storage might not meet those standards. Establishing robust security protocols and accountability measures will demand significant effort and resources.
</blockquote>
<img alt="Spreadsheet illustration" width="601" height="338" src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/n08yKOIWRpyyDu2o66WX">
<h2>TeamPassword: The Preferred Solution</h2>
These are just a few examples of situations where using a Google spreadsheet is inefficient and inconvenient.
A password manager like TeamPassword can vastly improve your company's security processes, increase efficiency, and step-up security. <a href="https://teampassword.com/features" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">TeamPassword</a> lets you easily create groups to manage who has access to what, write detailed labels to distinguish accounts used by several clients, and quickly onboard new employees and clients by giving or removing access in just a few clicks. Our <a href="https://teampassword.com/download" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">browser extensions</a> allow you to access all your login information right in your browser window without interrupting your workflow.
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/kXCWRlpcRYygbwFqndc4" alt="teampassword extension autofill in action gif" width="704" height="396">
TeamPassword provides:
<ul>
<li>Unified password control: Keep all your team&rsquo;s passwords organized and accessible in one secure location.</li>
<li>Uncompromising protection: Shield your passwords with cutting-edge encryption and advanced security measures.</li>
<li>Customized access management: Precisely control who can view and utilize specific passwords to mitigate risks.</li>
<li>Seamless collaboration: Enhance teamwork and productivity by eliminating the dangers of password sharing.</li>
<li>In-depth security monitoring: Track password activities with <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/activity-log-security-compliance" rel="follow">detailed logs</a> to identify potential threats and ensure accountability.</li>
</ul>
Ready to step up your data security? See why TeamPassword is your best option to securely store and share your passwords by starting <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">our free 14-day trial</a> today!
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Google Sheets is an amazing tool, but there are three main areas of concern when Google Sheets becomes the sole keeper of your passwords.

Google Sheets is an amazing tool, but there are three main areas of concern when Google Sheets becomes ...

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What is password management? Learn how to effectively manage your passwords with these best practices, tools, and more. Check out this guide today!

What is password management? Learn how to effectively manage your passwords with these best practices, tools, and more. ...

What Is Password Management? [Complete Guide]

If you've ever given in to the temptation of Microsoft Edge's "save this password" prompt, you're not alone. If you're concerned about the security and privacy risks associated with Edge's built-in password manager or already have a dedicated password manager, this article will guide you through disabling it.
<a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/5-tips-to-increase-security-for-your-remote-workforce" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Security concerns</a> often drive the decision to disable Microsoft Edge's built-in password manager. Storing and syncing passwords within your Microsoft account can pose a significant risk. If a cybercriminal gains access to your Microsoft account, they could potentially breach all your other accounts. Disabling the password manager can help mitigate this risk.
Instead, we highly recommend utilizing a dedicated third-party password manager. These applications offer enhanced security features, compatibility across various platforms, and additional functionalities such as customizable password generators and secure sharing. By disabling the browser's password manager, you can fully rely on your preferred third-party solution for comprehensive password management.
By following the steps outlined in this article to disable Microsoft Edge's password manager and transitioning to a trusted third-party alternative, you can ensure heightened security and alleviate the annoyance of constant popups. Say goodbye to the frustrations and safeguard your passwords effectively.
<h2 id="howtodisableedge">How to Disable Microsoft Edge Password Manager</h2>
For Edge users on Windows and Mac:
<ol>
<li>Click the three dot menu in the top right and click Passwords <img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/874T6XewSUa6SKZI0x2e" alt="screenshot of microsoft edge menu button and saved passwords location" width="416" height="478"></li>
<li>Toggle off Ask&nbsp;to save passwords. <img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/8AIaqHrcQmGLuolDfuyX" alt="screenshot of Edge browser offer to save passwords" width="985" height="179"></li>
<li>You can hit the back button, then do the same for Payment methods and Addresses and more. <img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/pPrMVtmSQGqrXd4V25fe" alt="screenshot of microsoft edge back button from password manager" width="320" height="263"><img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/u43pSd0dS6aswTLsGOrb" width="342" height="248"></li>
</ol>

For Edge users on iOS:
<ol>
<li>Tap the three horizontal lines in the lower right-hand corner</li>
<li>Tap Settings</li>
<li>Tap Accounts at the top</li>
<li>Tap Passwords </li>
<li>Toggle off Offer to save passwords</li>
</ol>
For Edge users on Android:
<ol>
<li>Tap the hamburger Menu icon in the bottom left and tap Settings</li>
<li>Tap Account</li>
<li>Tap Passwords</li>
<li>Turn off&nbsp;Save passwords. Tap the back arrow do the same for Addresses and more and Payment info. &nbsp;</li>
</ol>
<h2 id="howtodeleteedgepasswords">How to Delete Saved Passwords in Microsoft Edge Password Manager</h2>
To delete saved passwords from Edge Password Manager, follow these 3 steps:
<ol>
<li>Click the three dot menu in the top right and click Passwords <img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/874T6XewSUa6SKZI0x2e" alt="screenshot of microsoft edge menu and passwords location" width="383" height="440"></li>
<li>Click the three dot menu in the top right and click Settings.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Under Passwords, you can see all of your saved passwords. Click on one to open in.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Click Delete.<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/cqvZuKKQrO6u8JCcYQBg" width="398" height="172" alt="screenshot of microsoft edge how to delete a saved password"></li>
</ol>
You may want to first export your passwords from Microsoft Edge.&nbsp;
<ol>
<li>Click the three dots to the right of Add Password, and click Export. <img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/AvGnJAiSu2tzs9n1C610" alt="screenshot of microsoft edge export passwords location" width="773" height="132"></li>
</ol>

This exports all your passwords into a CSV file - so be careful with it!
<h3 id="howtodisableotherbrowser">Do you frequently use other browsers?&nbsp;</h3>
Are you wondering how to disable the password managers on other browsers you use? These articles might help:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/how-to-disable-firefox-password-manager" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">How to Disable Firefox Password Manager</a></li>
<li><a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/how-to-disable-google-chrome-password-manager" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">How to Disable Google Chrome Password Manager</a></li>
<li><a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/how-to-disable-safari-password-manager" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">How to Disable Safari Password Manager</a></li>
</ul>
<h2 id="isedgesafe">Is Microsoft Edge Password Manager Safe?</h2>
Microsoft Edge's built-in password manager offers some level of security, but it's not as robust as dedicated password managers. Here are a few factors to consider when evaluating its safety:
<ol style="list-style-type: decimal;">
<li>
Microsoft Edge Password Manager stores passwords using strong encryption techniques. It encrypts your saved passwords and stores them locally on your device or optionally syncs them to your Microsoft account. This provides a certain level of protection against unauthorized access.
</li>
<li>
Limited platform support: One limitation of Microsoft Edge Password Manager is its limited platform support. It primarily works within the Microsoft Edge browser, which means your passwords are not easily accessible on other browsers or platforms. This lack of cross-platform functionality is a drawback for users who frequently switch devices or use different browsers.
</li>
<li>
Feature set: Dedicated password managers often offer a more extensive set of features focused on password security. They include features like advanced two-factor authentication, password auditing, password generators, and secure password sharing. These additional features enhance the overall security of your passwords and provide a more comprehensive solution.
</li>
<li>
Third-party audits: Dedicated password managers often undergo regular third-party security audits to ensure the highest standards of security and privacy. These audits are conducted by independent security firms to identify potential vulnerabilities and provide recommendations for improvement. While it's not clear whether Microsoft Edge Password Manager undergoes similar audits, dedicated password managers generally have a stronger track record in this area.
</li>
</ol>
In conclusion, while Microsoft Edge Password Manager offers basic password management functionality and employs encryption measures, it may not provide the same level of security and feature-rich experience as dedicated password managers.&nbsp;
We recommend using a dedicated third-party tool that works on all your devices and browsers and protects your data with military-grade AES 256-bit encryption and advanced 2FA options.
<h2 id="howtodisableedge"></h2>
<h2>How TeamPassword Can Help</h2>
<a href="https://teampassword.com/" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">TeamPassword</a> is a fast, safe, and easy solution for storing and managing your passwords that doesn't leave you vulnerable to Edge password security issues. It lets you create and customize strong passwords on any browser or device, and you can access them whenever and wherever you need. With TeamPassword, your passwords remain secure even if your device ends up in the wrong hands.
Using a dedicated password manager like TeamPassword adds an extra layer of protection. It requires you to log in with a separate "master" password and automatically locks your passwords after a specific time. While slightly less convenient than Edge's built-in features, password managers are significantly more secure.
TeamPassword offers an Edge extension that autofills most websites and displays record information in a convenient dropdown, eliminating the need to visit a separate page. It also includes extensive features for safe credential sharing, something Edge's password feature lacks entirely. Passwords are organized into Groups, and team members can be given access as needed. Removing members and editing records is just as easy.
<img alt="TP extension in action GIF (video) (1..." width="820" height="461" src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/0gCOt5oQBCE1vxckmRZC">
With TeamPassword, you can enjoy the convenience of password management while keeping your information secure. <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Try it for free</a> today!

Learn how to disable Microsoft Edge built-in password saver step-by-step with screenshots.

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Shadow IT is the use of unapproved apps, tools, and systems inside a business, and it is more common than most teams realize. Employees adopt tools like ChatGPT or personal password managers to move faster, but that speed often comes at the cost of visibility and control. Understanding shadow IT helps businesses reduce risk, improve collaboration, and make better decisions about the tools their teams rely on.
Prevent shadow IT from capturing your team&rsquo;s passwords. Looking at TeamPassword? <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" target="_blank" rel="follow noopener">Sign up to unlock your 14 day free trial and try TeamPassword for yourself. </a>
<h2>What is shadow IT?</h2>
Here is a simple definition of shadow IT:
Shadow IT: Shadow IT is the use of software, devices, or services within an organization without approval or oversight from the IT department.
<h2>Why does shadow IT matter to businesses?</h2>
Shadow IT matters because it quietly shapes how work actually gets done inside a company. Teams often adopt tools to solve immediate problems, but those decisions create ripple effects across security, costs, and operations.
Understanding why it happens allows IT to build the software ecosystems employees need to accomplish great things. Ultimately, employees seek unauthorized tools when they do not have legitimate options.
<h2>The business drivers behind shadow IT</h2>
Employees turn to shadow IT when approved tools feel slow, limited, or difficult to access. They want to move quickly, collaborate easily, and avoid bottlenecks, especially when deadlines are tight or processes are unclear.
In many cases, shadow IT signals that the business has real gaps in its tooling. It shows where employees need better solutions, even if they are solving the problem in an unapproved way.
<h2>The hidden tradeoff between agility and control</h2>
Shadow IT can improve speed in the short term, but it reduces visibility for the organization. When tools operate outside official systems, IT teams cannot manage access, enforce policies, or track usage effectively.
Over time, this lack of control leads to duplicated costs, inconsistent workflows, and higher security risk. What starts as a quick fix can become a long-term operational burden that is difficult to unwind.
<h2>What are some common examples of shadow IT?</h2>
Shadow IT shows up when employees choose tools outside approved systems to solve everyday work problems. These tools are often adopted for convenience, but they can create gaps in visibility and control for the organization.
Here are some common types of shadow IT used in organizations:
<ul>
<li>Password managers: Employees use standalone or personal password management tools to store, generate, and share credentials without organizational oversight or centralized control.</li>
<li><a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/should-i-share-data-with-freelancers" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">File sharing platforms</a>: Teams use external storage and sharing services to move documents and data outside approved company systems.</li>
<li>Messaging and collaboration apps: Employees adopt third-party communication tools to coordinate work outside officially sanctioned platforms.</li>
<li>Personal cloud storage accounts: Individuals rely on private cloud drives to back up, sync, or transfer work-related files.</li>
<li>Project management tools: Teams introduce their own task tracking systems without aligning with company-wide governance or visibility standards.</li>
<li><a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/10-best-browser-extensions" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Browser extensions</a>: Users install add-ons that can access browsing activity, credentials, or internal data without security review or approval.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Shadow AI vs. shadow IT</h2>
<a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/local-ai-credential-risks" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Shadow AI</a> is a specific form of shadow IT that focuses on the use of artificial intelligence tools outside approved organizational systems. It is technically part of shadow IT, but it raises additional concerns because these tools process and generate information in ways that are not always transparent or predictable.
As AI tools become more common in everyday work, many organizations are still deciding whether to treat shadow AI as its own category or manage it under existing shadow IT policies. In practice, most security teams still place it within the broader shadow IT framework.
Shadow AI refers to the use of AI tools in a business context without formal approval, oversight, or security review. Employees may use external systems to write content, summarize information, or analyze data without considering how sensitive information is handled. Alternatively, employees may use approved AI tools in unapproved ways, for example by uploading private or proprietary information.
While shadow AI is usually classified as a subset of shadow IT, it behaves differently because of how data is processed. Inputs can be stored, used for model training, or exposed in ways that are not obvious to the user.
This is why tools like ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot are often discussed in security policies even when general shadow IT tools are already covered. The speed of adoption and the sensitivity of shared data make shadow AI a growing area of concern.
<h2>Why is shadow IT a cybersecurity threat?</h2>
Shadow IT is a cybersecurity risk because it removes visibility and control from the systems that organizations rely on to protect data and users. When tools are used outside approved channels, security teams cannot fully monitor, secure, or manage them. This creates blind spots that attackers can exploit.
One of the core issues is lack of visibility. If IT teams do not know a tool exists, they cannot apply security policies, enforce updates, or ensure proper <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/role-based-access-control-rbac-guide" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">access controls</a>. This means systems can run with outdated software, weak authentication, or no formal oversight.
Shadow IT also expands the attack surface. Every unapproved application, account, or service introduces a new potential entry point into company systems. Even if a tool is not directly connected to core infrastructure, it can still be used to access or leak sensitive information.
Data exposure is another major concern. Employees may store, share, or transfer business data through platforms that do not meet company security standards. This increases the risk of accidental leaks, unauthorized access, or compliance violations, especially when sensitive customer or financial data is involved.
<a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/what-are-identity-checks" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Identity and access management</a> becomes harder to enforce in shadow IT environments. Shared logins, reused passwords, and unmanaged accounts are common when tools are adopted informally. This makes it easier for unauthorized users to gain access without detection.
Finally, <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/cybersecurity-for-manufacturing" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">incident response</a> is significantly weakened. When a security breach involves an unknown system, it is much harder for IT teams to trace activity, contain the issue, or understand the scope of impact. This delays response time and increases potential damage.
<h2>How to prevent the proliferation of shadow IT in your business</h2>
Preventing shadow IT is less about strict restriction and more about making approved tools the easiest and most practical choice. When official systems are rationed due to high cost or employees feel that they are slow or difficult to use, they will naturally look for alternatives that help them work faster.
One of the most effective strategies is improving the quality and usability of approved tools. If internal systems are outdated or hard to navigate, employees will bypass them. Businesses reduce shadow IT when sanctioned tools are simple, reliable, and match how people actually work.
Cost also plays a major role. When approved tools are too expensive or limited in licensing, teams often adopt cheaper external options on their own. Providing well-structured, fairly priced solutions reduces the incentive to look elsewhere. When cheaper tools are unavailable and license rationing is required, <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/how-to-safely-share-passwords-with-coworkers" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">secure password sharing</a> can allow more people to gain access.
Clear access and onboarding processes are equally important. If employees cannot quickly get access to the tools they need, they will find their own. Streamlined approval workflows help ensure that speed does not depend on bypassing IT policies.
Training and awareness also help, but they work best when paired with good tooling. Employees need to understand why shadow IT is risky, but they also need practical alternatives that solve the same problems without friction.
Password management is a strong example of this dynamic. Teams often adopt unauthorized password managers because they need a simple way to store and share credentials securely.
TeamPassword addresses this directly by offering cross-platform compatibility, <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/what-is-password-vaulting" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">shared vaults</a>, and secure access controls in one system. When a solution is easy to use and purpose-built for teams, employees are far less likely to rely on unapproved alternatives.
Ultimately, reducing shadow IT is about alignment between security goals and user experience. When approved tools are both secure and convenient, shadow IT naturally declines without requiring heavy enforcement.
<h2>TeamPassword provides a legitimate password manager for your enterprise</h2>
Shadow IT often starts when employees try to solve everyday problems that official tools do not handle well. Password management is one of the clearest examples, since teams need a fast and secure way to store and share credentials across systems.
When approved tools feel limited or inconvenient, employees often adopt external password managers on their own. This creates risk because credentials are stored outside company oversight.
TeamPassword addresses this issue with a secure, <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/best-password-managers-for-teams" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">team-focused password management</a> system designed for shared use. It offers cross-platform compatibility and shared vaults that make access simple without relying on informal tools.
By providing a clear, easy-to-use alternative, businesses reduce the need for employees to adopt unauthorized solutions. This helps bring a common shadow IT problem back under control while keeping workflows efficient.
The end result is a balance between usability and security, where employees get the convenience they need without introducing unmanaged risk.
TeamPassword is the best password manager for businesses. Don&rsquo;t believe us? <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Sign up for a 14-day free trial</a> today and try for yourself.

Shadow IT involves unsanctioned tools, hidden risks, and business challenges. Learn how companies manage and prevent it effectively, take a look.

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In an increasingly digital world, we&rsquo;re switching more and more of our daily lives over to the Internet. While this brave new world is exciting and convenient, it&rsquo;s not without its problems.&nbsp;
The issue of unsafe passwords has been around for a while. But have you ever thought about where and how to store them?
Most of us have several passwords, and we&rsquo;re encouraged to never duplicate them. Some people simply write them all down on a piece of paper &mdash; which is fraught with danger. But others store their passwords electronically.
As you&rsquo;re about to find out, not all electronic systems of password storage are <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/the-best-ways-to-store-passwords-2023" target="_blank" rel="follow noopener">safe</a>. Here are five of the most dangerous ways to store your passwords.&nbsp;
But before we begin:
Avoid bad idea passwords and dangerous storage methods with TeamPassword. This advanced <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/best-password-managers-for-teams" target="_blank" rel="follow noopener">password manager for teams</a> features a selection of security features, including password encryption and two-step verification. Sign up for a <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">free trial</a> today.&nbsp;
<h2 id="email">1. Email</h2>
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/efPCc2QZQ7C0OT1KeoKe" alt="" width="655" height="88">
We've all been there: struggling to remember a new password and considering emailing it to ourselves for safekeeping. While it might seem convenient, emailing passwords is a terrible security practice with far-reaching consequences. Here's why:
<ul>
<li data-sourcepos="7:3-7:245">Unencrypted Transmission: Emails often travel in plain text, like postcards. Anyone with access to the data stream &ndash; hackers, scammers, or even compromised servers &ndash; could easily intercept the email and steal your password in its entirety.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="9:3-9:33">Multiple Vulnerable Points: Even if the email itself is encrypted, your password is exposed at several stages. It's stored on your device before sending, sits unencrypted on email servers during transit, and resides in your sent folder &ndash; all potential points of entry for attackers.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="11:3-11:248">Local Storage Risks: Many email platforms store data locally on your devices. If your computer, phone, or tablet is stolen or infected with malware, even deleted emails containing passwords might be recoverable, putting your accounts at risk.</li>
</ul>
The ease with which cybercriminals can exploit these vulnerabilities makes emailing passwords a high-stakes gamble. A stolen password could grant them access to your bank accounts, social media profiles, email itself, and more. The <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/cybersecurity-complete-guide" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">damage can be immense</a>, so why risk it for a temporary convenience?

<h2 id="Documents">2. Online Documents</h2>
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/Hh6oH8AzTMSnQFUaPHR9" alt="" width="216" height="235">
A lot of people like the convenience of saving crucial information using online document systems such as Google Docs. But this is a bad idea for passwords, as these systems are designed for text &mdash; not sensitive data.
Yes, a password might protect your online document manager from unauthorized access. But what happens if that password is compromised? Many document software platforms don&rsquo;t offer encryption, two-step verification, or even the most basic security measures.&nbsp;
If you use online documents regularly, you&rsquo;re probably accessing your account on a regular basis &mdash; across several devices. What happens if you step away for a moment to buy a coffee, speak to a friend, or use the bathroom?
A criminal can access an unattended online document platform in seconds. And if this happens, it doesn't take a lot of effort to steal your unsafe passwords.&nbsp;
<h2 id="instantmessaging">3. Instant Messaging Service</h2>
Instant messaging (IM) services like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and Snapchat offer a convenient way to communicate, but they are not designed for securely storing passwords. While some IM platforms offer end-to-end encryption for message content, they lack crucial security features necessary for password management.
People who store their passwords on these apps do so because they believe they&rsquo;re fully encrypted. While that&rsquo;s often the case, it&rsquo;s important to remember that instant messaging services are often left open and operating in the background.
Imagine someone picks up your phone while you&rsquo;re not paying attention. If you left your device unlocked, that person would be able to access your password in seconds.
Here's why storing passwords on IM apps is a security risk:
<ul data-sourcepos="9:1-9:155">
<li data-sourcepos="9:1-9:155">Accessibility on Unlocked Devices: IM apps are designed to run in the background on unlocked devices. This means anyone with physical access to your unlocked phone or computer could potentially view your unencrypted passwords.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="10:1-10:164">Accidental Sharing: A single inadvertent tap or screenshot could send your password to someone unintended, compromising the security of your online accounts.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="11:1-12:0">Limited Security Features: Unlike dedicated password managers, IM applications typically lack features like secure password generation, two-factor authentication, and strong encryption specifically designed to protect passwords.</li>
</ul>
Dedicated password management applications offer robust security features like encryption, secure storage, and auto-fill functionality for logins.
<h2 id="onlinenotetaker">4. Online Note-taker</h2>
While online note-taking applications like Apple Notes offer a convenient platform for managing everyday tasks and reminders, they are demonstrably unsuitable for storing sensitive information, particularly passwords. These platforms, designed for general purpose note-taking, lack the robust security features essential for safeguarding confidential credentials.
Here's why online note-taking apps pose a significant security risk for passwords:
<ul>
<li data-sourcepos="9:3-9:314">Absence of Multi-Factor Authentication: Unlike dedicated password managers, these applications typically do not offer multi-factor authentication (MFA). MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second verification step beyond a simple password, significantly hindering unauthorized access attempts.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="11:3-11:322">Limited Encryption Capabilities: While some note-taking applications may offer basic encryption features, they often fall short of the robust encryption protocols employed by dedicated password management solutions. This weaker encryption leaves sensitive data vulnerable to potential decryption by malicious actors.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="13:3-13:97">Accessibility on Unlocked Devices: Online note-taking apps are designed for ease of use and accessibility. This ease of access translates to a vulnerability. If a user's device remains unlocked and unattended, a perpetrator would only need to access the specific application to view unencrypted passwords.</li>
</ul>
In a world of increasingly sophisticated cyber threats, it is critical to prioritize robust security practices. Online note-taking applications simply do not provide the necessary safeguards for password management. Users are strongly advised to consider secure alternatives, such as dedicated password managers or offline password vaults, to ensure the confidentiality and integrity of their login credentials.
<h2 id="nonpasswordprotecteddevice">5. On a Non-Password-Protected Device</h2>
Of all the bad ideas for passwords, storing them on non-password-protected devices is about the worst. You might think that your tablet or laptop never leaves your side. But if your device is ever stolen, you&rsquo;ve given the criminals the easiest possible opportunity to access your saved passwords.&nbsp;
If you&rsquo;re determined to store passwords on a physical device &mdash; which is never a good idea &mdash; make sure the device password is a complex combination of letters, numbers, and symbols. And it should contain at least 12 characters.&nbsp;
<h2 data-sourcepos="7:1-7:6">Control Your Security and Choose Convenience with TeamPassword</h2>
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/0gCOt5oQBCE1vxckmRZC" alt="The TeamPassword Extension for Chrome lets you sign into any account in seconds" width="828" height="466">
Our digital vault safeguards your passwords with industry-leading AES 256-bit encryption and ironclad two-step authentication. Stop wasting time remembering &ndash; TeamPassword empowers you with secure, one-click logins across all your devices.
<ul>
<li data-sourcepos="9:1-9:157">Divide passwords into groups to share with appropriate team members</li>
<li data-sourcepos="9:1-9:157">Enforce 2FA for all users</li>
<li data-sourcepos="9:1-9:157">View activity logs for all of your records</li>
<li data-sourcepos="9:1-9:157">Use the TeamPassword browser extensions and mobile apps for lightning-fast access everywhere</li>
<li data-sourcepos="9:1-9:157">Save money with affordable plans configured for YOU</li>
</ul>
Don't settle for password purgatory. Take control with TeamPassword. <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Sign up for your FREE trial today</a> and experience the power of effortless security!

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

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

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