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

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

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

Have I Been Hacked? How to Know for Sure.

Managing passwords shouldn&rsquo;t feel like a second job. If you&rsquo;re still clicking back and forth between tabs to copy and paste login credentials, there is a much faster way to work.
The TeamPassword browser extension brings your entire vault directly into your workflow. Whether you&rsquo;re logging into a client portal or sharing a login with a teammate, the extension ensures you never have to leave the page you&rsquo;re on. In this guide, we&rsquo;ll show you exactly how to install and master the extension in just a few minutes.
<h3>TL;DR: The Quick Start Guide</h3>
Don't have time for the full tour? Here is the fast track to getting set up:
<ul>
<li>Download: Head to the <a href="https://chromewebstore.google.com/detail/teampassword/cikdbigchmgednjbjppflefljobhnhca" target="_blank" rel="follow noopener">TeamPassword Chrome Web Store Page</a>.</li>
<li>Install: Click Add to Chrome and then Add Extension on the popup.</li>
<li>Pin it: Click the puzzle piece icon in your browser toolbar and click the Pin icon next to TeamPassword.</li>
<li>Log In: Click the TeamPassword logo in your toolbar and sign in to see your vault.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Step 1: Installation</h3>
Getting started is simple. Navigate to the <a href="https://chromewebstore.google.com/detail/TeamPassword/cikdbigchmgednjbjppflefljobhnhca" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Chrome Web Store page for TeamPassword</a>. This version works seamlessly with Chrome, Brave, and Microsoft Edge.
Click the blue Add to Chrome button.&nbsp;
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/xWWgtKzSIqF603vHuzEI" width="860" height="225" alt="The TeamPassword extension listing on the Chrome Web Store showing the Add to Chrome button.">
A small window will appear at the top of your browser asking for permission to install the tool. This is a standard security step to allow the extension to help you fill in your logins. Click Add Extension to finalize the process.
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/tNOgEObhQBSYBim4cbbz" width="429" height="209" alt="A browser confirmation dialog box asking the user to click Add Extension to install TeamPassword.">

<h3>Step 2: Keep TeamPassword Within Reach (Pinning)</h3>
Once installed, the extension sometimes hides inside your browser's extension menu. To make sure it&rsquo;s always visible when you need it, you&rsquo;ll want to pin it to your toolbar.
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/Oa1HUJnZS6KXbFrHs7Oy" width="248" height="47">
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/ufxSLHuQXGyoto0yrstV" width="502" height="80" alt="The browser extension menu highlighting the pin icon next to the TeamPassword logo for toolbar access.">
<ol>
<li>Click the Extensions icon (it looks like a grey puzzle piece) in the top right corner of your browser.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Find TeamPassword in the dropdown list.</li>
<li>Click the Pin icon so it turns blue.</li>
</ol>
Now, the TeamPassword logo will stay next to your address bar for easy access.
<h3>Step 3: Navigating Your New Dashboard</h3>
When you click the TeamPassword icon in your toolbar, your home dashboard opens. Think of this as your mini-vault. You can search for specific logins, browse through your various groups, and if the extension recognizes a URL in your vault that matches the webpage you're currently on, it will bring it to the top.&nbsp;
<a data-designer-clipboard="{&quot;clipboardData&quot;:&quot;{\&quot;elements\&quot;:[{\&quot;id\&quot;:\&quot;35fd21ec-d949-48d3-a50a-bb1d10465cd0\&quot;,\&quot;type\&quot;:\&quot;Text\&quot;,\&quot;choice\&quot;:{\&quot;sp\&quot;:{\&quot;nvSpPr\&quot;:{\&quot;cNvPr\&quot;:{\&quot;id\&quot;:7,\&quot;name\&quot;:\&quot;9227f283-8075-45e3-b596-19f10c27bf69\&quot;},\&quot;cNvSpPr\&quot;:{\&quot;txBox\&quot;:true},\&quot;nvPr\&quot;:{}},\&quot;spPr\&quot;:{\&quot;xfrm\&quot;:{\&quot;off\&quot;:{\&quot;x\&quot;:1017761,\&quot;y\&quot;:1540842},\&quot;ext\&quot;:{\&quot;cx\&quot;:1630114,\&quot;cy\&quot;:333375},\&quot;flipH\&quot;:false,\&quot;flipV\&quot;:false,\&quot;rot\&quot;:0},\&quot;Geometry\&quot;:{\&quot;prstGeom\&quot;:{\&quot;prst\&quot;:\&quot;rect\&quot;}},\&quot;Fill\&quot;:{\&quot;noFill\&quot;:{}}},\&quot;txBody\&quot;:{\&quot;bodyPr\&quot;:{\&quot;anchor\&quot;:\&quot;ctr\&quot;,\&quot;bIns\&quot;:0,\&quot;lIns\&quot;:0,\&quot;rIns\&quot;:0,\&quot;tIns\&quot;:0,\&quot;AutofitProp\&quot;:{\&quot;spAutoFit\&quot;:{}},\&quot;wrap\&quot;:\&quot;none\&quot;,\&quot;noWrapProps\&quot;:{\&quot;resizeLimit\&quot;:305.1},\&quot;prstTxWarp\&quot;:{\&quot;prst\&quot;:\&quot;textPlain\&quot;}},\&quot;p\&quot;:[{\&quot;pPr\&quot;:{\&quot;algn\&quot;:\&quot;ctr\&quot;,\&quot;rtl\&quot;:false,\&quot;lnSpc\&quot;:{\&quot;textSpacingChoice\&quot;:{\&quot;spcPct\&quot;:{\&quot;val\&quot;:100000}}},\&quot;spcAft\&quot;:{\&quot;textSpacingChoice\&quot;:{\&quot;spcPts\&quot;:{\&quot;val\&quot;:0}}},\&quot;spcBef\&quot;:{\&quot;textSpacingChoice\&quot;:{\&quot;spcPts\&quot;:{\&quot;val\&quot;:0}}}},\&quot;runs\&quot;:[{\&quot;r\&quot;:{\&quot;rPr\&quot;:{\&quot;b\&quot;:false,\&quot;i\&quot;:false,\&quot;u\&quot;:\&quot;none\&quot;,\&quot;strike\&quot;:\&quot;noStrike\&quot;,\&quot;sz\&quot;:2200,\&quot;spc\&quot;:0,\&quot;spcUnit\&quot;:\&quot;percent\&quot;,\&quot;Fill\&quot;:{\&quot;solidFill\&quot;:{\&quot;color\&quot;:{\&quot;srgbClr\&quot;:{\&quot;val\&quot;:\&quot;e3182d\&quot;}}}},\&quot;cs\&quot;:{\&quot;typeface\&quot;:\&quot;Elephant Pro\&quot;},\&quot;latin\&quot;:{\&quot;typeface\&quot;:\&quot;Elephant Pro\&quot;}},\&quot;t\&quot;:\&quot;Create new\&quot;}}]}]}}}}],\&quot;rels\&quot;:[]}&quot;,&quot;clipboardFormat&quot;:&quot;application/vnd.ms-designer+json&quot;}"></a><img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/CIapYSCkT5W3GaMgNAeP" alt="The TeamPassword browser extension home dashboard displaying a searchable list of saved passwords and highlighting plus icon and view details." width="338" height="588">
Need to add a new login on the fly? You don&rsquo;t need to open the full website. Just click the "plus" button inside the extension to create a new record and save credentials instantly.
<h3>Step 4: Using Autofill (and When to Manual Fill)</h3>
The extension is designed to recognize when you are on a login page. Click the recognized login to autofill.&nbsp;
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/kXCWRlpcRYygbwFqndc4" width="849" height="477">
While we strive for 100% accuracy, the internet is built on many different frameworks, meaning autofill only works some of the time. If the autofill icon doesn&rsquo;t pop up, simply click the View Details icon for the login, and use the copy icons to manually paste your details into the fields.
<h3>Step 5: Mastering Two-Factor Authentication (TOTP)</h3>
Security is our priority, which is why we&rsquo;ve built TOTP (Time-based One-Time Password) support directly into the extension. If you have a time-based 2FA set up for a record, you don&rsquo;t need to grab your phone to check an app.
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/s0zQTdETtm7iicswIQVe" width="431" height="150" alt="The TeamPassword extension interface showing a 6-digit TOTP two-factor authentication code for a saved account.">
Find the record in your extension, and the 6-digit code will be right there, refreshing every 30 seconds. Click to copy the code and paste it into the site to complete your login.
<hr>
The TeamPassword extension is the best way to keep your team secure without slowing down your momentum. By spending five minutes setting it up today, you&rsquo;ll save hours of searching and typing over the coming weeks.
Don't have a TeamPassword account? <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Sign up for a free trial!</a>&nbsp;

Master the TeamPassword extension in minutes. Follow our visual guide to set up one-click logins and secure TOTP codes directly in your browser.

Master the TeamPassword extension in minutes. Follow our visual guide to set up one-click logins and secure TOTP ...

How to Streamline Your Workflow with the TeamPassword Extension

(Security Notice: Protecting your users from session-based vulnerabilities is a cornerstone of modern web development. This guide explores Cross-Site Request Forgery&mdash;a silent but high-impact threat&mdash;and provides the updated defense-in-depth strategies required.)
In the world of cybersecurity, Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF) is often referred to as the "Confused Deputy" problem. It occurs when a web server is tricked into using its authority to perform an action on behalf of a user without that user's consent or knowledge.
While browser-level protections have improved significantly over the last few years, CSRF remains a critical risk, particularly for applications using cookie-based authentication or those with complex API architectures. Understanding how to mitigate this risk is essential for any team focused on building secure, resilient digital products.
Don't let your business fall victim to preventable vulnerabilities. Let <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial" target="_blank" rel="noopener">TeamPassword</a> take care of your credential security while you focus on scaling your operations.
<h2>The Mechanism: How a CSRF Attack Works</h2>
A CSRF attack exploits the fact that browsers automatically include ambient credentials&mdash;such as session cookies, IP addresses, and Windows Domain authentication&mdash;with every request sent to a domain. The server sees a valid session cookie and "trusts" that the request was intentional.
<h3>The Attack Sequence</h3>
<h3><img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/OxvA7nETaCoNyjYyFOpn" alt="undefined" width="750" height="419"></h3>
<h3>Beyond the GET Request</h3>
Many developers mistakenly believe that only <code>GET</code> requests are vulnerable. However, an attacker can easily forge a <code>POST</code> request using a hidden form on a malicious landing page:
<pre style="background: #272822; color: #f8f8f2; padding: 15px; border-radius: 5px; overflow-x: auto;"><code>&lt;!-- A hidden malicious form that auto-submits on page load --&gt;
&lt;form id="attack-form" action="https://yourbank.com/api/transfer" method="POST"&gt;
 &lt;input type="hidden" name="account" value="attacker-123" /&gt;
 &lt;input type="hidden" name="amount" value="5000" /&gt;
&lt;/form&gt;
&lt;script&gt;
 document.getElementById('attack-form').submit();
&lt;/script&gt;</code></pre>
<h2>The Impact of CSRF</h2>
The consequences of a successful CSRF attack range from minor inconveniences to catastrophic security breaches:
<ul>
<li>Account Takeover: Changing a user&rsquo;s recovery email or password.</li>
<li>Financial Fraud: Unauthorized fund transfers or purchasing digital goods via stored payment methods.</li>
<li>Data Corruption: Deleting records, changing privacy settings, or modifying critical business configurations.</li>
<li>Reputational Damage: Loss of user trust and potential regulatory fines (GDPR/CCPA) for failing to implement standard security controls.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Modern CSRF Defense Strategies (2026 Standards)</h2>
<h3>1. SameSite Cookie Attributes</h3>
In 2026, browsers treat <code>SameSite=Lax</code> as the default for all cookies. This prevents the browser from sending the cookie in cross-site <code>POST</code> requests. However, for high-security actions, you should explicitly set SameSite=Strict.
<pre style="background: #272822; color: #f8f8f2; padding: 15px; border-radius: 5px;"><code>Set-Cookie: session_id=abc123; SameSite=Strict; Secure; HttpOnly</code></pre>
<h3>2. The Synchronizer Token Pattern (Anti-CSRF Tokens)</h3>
This is the industry standard. The server generates a unique, cryptographically strong token for the user's session. The client must include this token in any state-changing request (POST, PUT, DELETE). The server then validates the token before processing the action.
<h3>3. Custom Request Headers</h3>
Because of the Same-Origin Policy (SOP), a malicious site cannot add custom HTTP headers to a request it sends to another domain. Requiring a custom header for API calls is an effective secondary defense.
<pre style="background: #272822; color: #f8f8f2; padding: 15px; border-radius: 5px;"><code>// Example using Fetch API with a custom header
fetch('/api/update-settings', {
 method: 'POST',
 headers: {
 'X-CSRF-Token': 'unique-token-here',
 'Content-Type': 'application/json'
 },
 body: JSON.stringify({ theme: 'dark' })
});</code></pre>
<h2>CSRF vs. XSS: What&rsquo;s the Difference?</h2>
It is common to confuse CSRF with Cross-Site Scripting (XSS), but they are fundamentally different:
<table border="1" cellpadding="10" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%; margin-top: 20px;">
<thead>
<tr style="background-color: #eee;">
<th>Feature</th>
<th>CSRF</th>
<th>XSS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Goal</td>
<td>Trick the server into performing an action.</td>
<td>Execute malicious scripts in the victim's browser.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Method</td>
<td>Exploits the trust a site has in a user's browser.</td>
<td>Exploits the trust a user has in a specific site.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Prerequisite</td>
<td>The user must be authenticated on the target site.</td>
<td>The site must have an input vulnerability to inject script.</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h2>Protecting Your Infrastructure</h2>
Modern frameworks like Django, Ruby on Rails, and Spring Boot have CSRF protection enabled by default. If you are building with React or Angular, ensure your backend is configured to read the CSRF tokens from the headers provided by your frontend interceptors.
In an era where automated tools and AI are being used to identify vulnerabilities faster than ever, manual security isn't enough. Ensuring that your team uses complex, unique passwords across all development platforms is the first line of defense against account compromise.
<a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" target="_blank" rel="follow noopener">Sign up for a free 14-day trial of TeamPassword</a> today to secure your company's digital assets and provide your team with the tools they need to stay safe.
<img alt="TeamPassword SOC 2 certified.png" width="644" height="644" src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/2E1SBkO9QNa8f94LkvZC">

CSRF attacks trick your server into executing unauthorized actions. Discover why modern browsers aren't enough to stop them and get the code snippets you need for total defense.

Cross-site request forgery attempts to have users unknowingly execute actions on a web application which they are currently ...

What is CSRF? A Complete Guide to Cross-Site Request Forgery

Cross-site request forgery attempts to have users unknowingly execute actions on a web application which they are currently authenticated.

In the race to scale a business, speed is everything. We use Slack for instant answers, browser auto-fill to save seconds on logins, and shared spreadsheets to keep the whole team moving. But there is a "convenience tax" that most teams don't realize they are paying. Many of the habits we adopt to work faster are the exact vulnerabilities that lead to modern password threats.
According to recent data, password-related vulnerabilities remain the primary cause of most <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/category/data-breaches" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">data breaches</a>. The goal isn't to stop being productive; it&rsquo;s to bridge the gap between working fast and staying secure.
<h2>The Productivity vs. Security Audit</h2>
Before diving into the specific attacks, look at your team&rsquo;s current workflow. Are you accidentally inviting these password threats?
<table style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 4px; border-color: #95a5a6; border-style: solid;" border="1">
<thead>
<tr>
<th style="padding: 4px; border-color: #95a5a6;">The Shortcut (Utility)</th>
<th style="padding: 4px; border-color: #95a5a6;">The Hidden Risk (Security)</th>
<th style="padding: 4px; border-color: #95a5a6;">The Threat</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="padding: 4px; border-color: #95a5a6;">"Ping me the login on Slack."</td>
<td style="padding: 4px; border-color: #95a5a6;">Plain-text passwords stay in chat history forever.</td>
<td style="padding: 4px; border-color: #95a5a6;">Spear Phishing</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="padding: 4px; border-color: #95a5a6;">"Let's just use CompanyName2026!"</td>
<td style="padding: 4px; border-color: #95a5a6;">Predictable patterns are easily guessed by bots.</td>
<td style="padding: 4px; border-color: #95a5a6;">Brute Force</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="padding: 4px; border-color: #95a5a6;">"Save my password in Chrome."</td>
<td style="padding: 4px; border-color: #95a5a6;">Browser-stored credentials can be intercepted.</td>
<td style="padding: 4px; border-color: #95a5a6;">Man-in-the-Middle</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="padding: 4px; border-color: #95a5a6;">"I use this password for everything."</td>
<td style="padding: 4px; border-color: #95a5a6;">One minor leak compromises every single account.</td>
<td style="padding: 4px; border-color: #95a5a6;">Credential Stuffing</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h2>1. The "Quick Ping" Trap: Spear Phishing</h2>
We&rsquo;ve all done it: a teammate asks for a login, and you paste it into a DM or email to keep them moving. This is high utility, but it creates a massive target for Spear Phishing. Unlike generic spam, spear phishing is a targeted attack where a criminal impersonates a trusted source&mdash;like your CEO or a vendor&mdash;to gain access to those specific communication channels.
If an attacker gains access to one person's email or Slack, they don't just see the messages; they see the history. Every password ever shared in plain text becomes a "key" the hacker can now use. This is exactly how <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/what-happened-during-the-twitter-spear-phishing-attack" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Twitter&rsquo;s internal systems were breached</a> by a teenager in 2020.
Deep Dive: <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/spear-phishing" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">How to spot and stop spear phishing attacks</a>.
<h2>2. The "Remote Work" Shortcut: Man-in-the-Middle (MITM)</h2>
The "utility" here is the ability to work from anywhere&mdash;the airport, a coffee shop, or a co-working space. To stay productive, we often rely on public Wi-Fi and browser "remember me" features. A Man-in-the-Middle attack happens when a hacker intercepts the data passing between your device and the server.
If you are working on an unencrypted network or a site without HTTPS, your credentials can be "sniffed" out of the air. Even a "Remember Me" cookie can be hijacked to bypass login screens entirely. Modern password management prevents this by localizing the encryption, ensuring that even if data is intercepted, it remains unreadable gibberish.
Deep Dive: <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/man-in-the-middle-attack" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Understanding the Man-in-the-Middle architecture</a>.
<h2>3. The "Easy to Remember" Habit: Brute Force</h2>
Humans are bad at remembering random strings of characters. To stay productive, we create "systematized" passwords like BrandName2026!. While this feels organized, it is the primary food source for Brute Force attacks.
Hackers use automated scripts that try thousands of variations of common words and patterns every second. If your username is public (like your email address) and your password follows a predictable pattern, it's only a matter of time before a bot finds the right combination. Using a <a href="https://teampassword.com/password-generator" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">password generator</a> to create 32-character "noise" is the only way to truly neutralize this threat.
Deep Dive: <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/what-is-a-brute-force-attack-and-are-you-at-risk" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Why your "strong" password isn't enough</a>.
<h2>4. The "Universal Login": Credential Stuffing</h2>
This is the most common "productivity shortcut." Using the same password for your project management tool, your email, and your favorite pizza delivery app saves mental energy. However, it leads to Credential Stuffing.
When a minor site (like that pizza app) gets breached, hackers take the billions of leaked emails and passwords and "stuff" them into the login pages of more valuable targets like AWS, GitHub, or banking portals. If you reuse passwords, a breach at a company you haven't used in five years could lead to a breach of your current business today.
Deep Dive: <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/appletree-to-anarchy-credential-stuffing" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">From Appletree to Anarchy: The anatomy of credential stuffing</a>.
<h2>5. The "Personal Touch": Dictionary Attacks</h2>
Dictionary attacks are a more refined version of brute force. Instead of trying every character, they use "personal" data to narrow the search. If a hacker knows your dog&rsquo;s name (from Instagram) or your city (from LinkedIn), they add those to their "dictionary."
By using recognizable words or familiar phrases, you make the hacker's job exponentially easier. The "utility" of having a password you can actually remember is outweighed by the risk of that password being part of a common word-list.
<hr>
<h2>Bridging the Gap with TeamPassword</h2>
Security shouldn't be a speed bump. The reason teams use shortcuts like shared spreadsheets or recycled passwords is that traditional security feels slow. We designed TeamPassword to give you back that utility without the associated risks.
<ul>
<li><a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/2fa-rollout-guide" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">2FA Integration</a>: Enforceable 2FA, requiring all users to provide a time-based code when logging into their vault.&nbsp;</li>
<li>One-Click Access: Our <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/streamline-workflow-with-teampassword-extension" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">browser extensions</a> (Chrome, Firefox, Safari) allow your team to log in instantly, removing the temptation to use "remember me" shortcuts in the browser.</li>
<li>Activity Logging: Instead of wondering who accessed what, you have a <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/5-minute-monthly-security-audit" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">full audit trail</a> to get ahead of suspicious activity.</li>
</ul>
You don't have to sacrifice your team's workflow to protect against password threats. You just need a better bridge.
Stop the convenience trap. <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Start your 14-day free trial</a> and see how TeamPassword makes security as fast as your team.

Are your team’s productivity shortcuts a security risk? Discover the 5 most common password threats—from spear phishing to credential stuffing—and how to secure your workflow without sacrificing speed.

Are your team’s productivity shortcuts a security risk? Discover the 5 most common password threats—from spear phishing to ...

The Convenience Trap: 5 Password Threats Hidden in Your Productivity Shortcuts

(Trigger warning: This conversation deals with issues that can be triggering to some victims. The content includes sexual assault and abuse, including minors and the use of AI-generated deepfakes. While all attempts have been made to keep the specifics as minimal as possible, this is a very difficult topic to read about for everybody and especially those who have suffered or continue to suffer. Please prepare yourself or consider reading this similar <a href="https://www.teampassword.com/blog/extortion-emails-what-they-are-how-do-they-happen" target="_blank" rel="noopener">article about more general cases of extortion</a>.)
In 2026, sextortion remains one of the most heinous and rapidly evolving cybercrimes. Historically, it referred to the act of coercing someone through threats or promises to perform sexual acts, often targeting minors. It also encompasses blackmail, where a perpetrator threatens to release sexually explicit material unless their demands are met.
However, the landscape has shifted dramatically with the rise of generative AI. Today, sextortion doesn't even require the victim to have ever shared or recorded an intimate image. Criminals now use deepfake technology to create hyper-realistic, fabricated imagery from innocent social media photos, fundamentally changing the nature of this threat.
<h2>What is sextortion?</h2>
Sending nude photos has become a common form of flirtation. So long as both parties are consenting adults, there is nothing inherently wrong with such expression. However, when you use webcams or social media for such flirtations, you risk the person not being who they say they are.
Many criminals prey on the lonely, using fake personas to gain their victim&rsquo;s trust. In recent years, these "catfishing" tactics have been amplified by AI voice cloning and live deepfake video filters, making it nearly impossible to tell if the person on the other side of the screen is real. Once trust is established, the perpetrator entices the victim to perform sexual acts or share imagery, which is then used as a coercive tool.
In 2026, a secondary and equally dangerous form of sextortion has emerged: synthetic sextortion. Using publicly available photos from your Instagram or LinkedIn, predators use AI to "pornify" your image. They then threaten to send these forgeries to your family, employer, or spouse. Even though the images are fake, the potential for reputational damage and psychological trauma remains a powerful lever for extortion.
These recordings&mdash;whether real or AI-generated&mdash;are leveraged to force victims into paying money, performing further sexual acts, or even facilitating corporate espionage by handing over company login credentials.
<h2>Sextortion as an abuse of power</h2>
Sextortion as an abuse of power occurs when a person in authority&mdash;such as a judge, teacher, police officer, or employer&mdash;uses their position to coerce someone into sexual acts. This form of abuse was brought to global attention by the #metoo movement and continues to be a systemic issue.
In corporate environments, non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) were historically abused to keep these crimes secret. While many jurisdictions have since passed laws to prevent NDAs from covering sexual assault, the power dynamic makes these crimes incredibly difficult to prove. If you are facing this, the best course of action is to document everything and report it to the authorities or a dedicated legal advocacy group immediately.
<h2>Sextortion as a form of blackmail</h2>
In this form, criminals use sexually explicit material&mdash;real or fabricated&mdash;to force a victim to act. The methods for acquiring this material have become increasingly sophisticated:
<ul>
<li>Data Breach Integration: Scammers often include an old password or a Google Maps image of your home in their extortion email to "prove" they have hacked your devices, even if they haven't.</li>
<li>AI Fabrication: As mentioned, deepfake technology allows criminals to create "evidence" out of thin air using only your public profile pictures.</li>
<li>Webcam Hijacking: Perpetrators may still attempt to <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/what-happened-with-the-zoom-credentials-hack" target="_blank" rel="noopener">take control of webcams</a> to record victims privately.</li>
</ul>
Once the material is "secured," the victim is pressured to pay a ransom (often in cryptocurrency) or provide sensitive business data. <a href="https://teampassword.com" target="_blank" rel="follow noopener">TeamPassword</a> uses state-of-the-art encryption to ensure that even if a hacker targets your business, your credentials remain hashed, salted, and inaccessible.
<a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" target="_blank" rel="follow noopener">Protect your company's digital assets</a> by signing up for a free 14-day TeamPassword trial today.
<h2>Has this happened to you or someone you know?</h2>
If you are a victim of sextortion, understand that it is not your fault. Criminal organizations are now industrialized, using AI playbooks to target thousands of people at once. There is immediate help available for your <a href="https://www.opencounseling.com/suicide-hotlines" target="_blank" rel="noopener">emotional state here</a>. Here are the steps you should take:
<ul>
<li>Don&rsquo;t Panic: You are the victim of a crime. Modern technology can now detect deepfakes, and there are legal avenues to help you.</li>
<li>Don&rsquo;t pay: Statistics show that paying rarely stops the extortion; it only marks you as a "reliable" source of income. Once a criminal releases the images, they lose their leverage, so they often won't actually follow through if you refuse.</li>
<li>Stop all communication: Block the perpetrator on all platforms. They will use every emotional tactic to break your will. Do not engage.</li>
<li>Preserve Evidence: Take screenshots of the threats and the accounts used. Under the Take It Down Act (2025), there are now stricter federal penalties for distributing non-consensual AI-generated explicit imagery.</li>
<li>Use Takedown Tools: If images have been posted, use services like the NCMEC&rsquo;s Take It Down tool, which helps remove non-consensual intimate imagery from the internet.</li>
</ul>
<h2>How can you prevent sextortion?</h2>
Prevention in 2026 requires a "Zero Trust" approach to online interactions. To make yourself a difficult target:
<ul>
<li>Audit Your Privacy: Set your social media profiles to private and be wary of "random" friend requests, even if they appear to have mutual friends.</li>
<li>Verify Identities: If an online acquaintance asks for intimate photos or moves to a private messaging app quickly, they are likely a scammer.</li>
<li>Secure Your Credentials: Use <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/2fa-vs-mfa" target="_blank" rel="follow noopener">two-factor authentication (2FA)</a> and unique, complex passwords. This prevents scammers from using your real account data to add "credibility" to their fake threats.</li>
</ul>
In a world where 90% of online content can be synthetic, protecting your digital identity is more important than ever. Let <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" target="_blank" rel="follow noopener">TeamPassword</a> handle the complexity of your security so you can focus on your life and business.
<a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" target="_blank" rel="follow noopener">Sign up for a 14-day free trial</a> to secure your team today.

This article explains what sextortion is, how it happens, and how to reduce your risk of becoming a victim of sextortion. | TeamPassword

This article explains what sextortion is, how it happens, and how to reduce your risk of becoming a ...

What Is Sextortion and How Can You Prevent It?

This article explains what sextortion is, how it happens, and how to reduce your risk of becoming a victim of sextortion.

Nonprofits face unique constraints that make software choices more consequential than in most businesses. Budget pressure, shared access, volunteer turnover, and compliance needs mean tools must be affordable, secure, and simple to manage from day one. After all, every dollar spent on overhead is one less that goes to serving your cause.
Here are 14 easy-to-use and low-cost essential software packages that your nonprofit can use today.
TeamPassword is the best password manager available for your nonprofit. Don&rsquo;t believe us? <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" target="_blank" rel="follow noopener">Sign up for our free trial to unlock 30% off your first year today and try for yourself.</a>
<h2>Nonprofit organizations have different software needs</h2>
Nonprofits operate under structural constraints that shape every technology decision. Software must support collaboration and accountability without introducing high costs or administrative overhead.
<h3>Limited budgets and pressure to justify every dollar</h3>
Nonprofits must justify every expense to boards, donors, and grant providers. Software that appears inexpensive in isolation can become difficult to defend when multiplied across staff, volunteers, and programs.
As a result, nonprofits favor tools with free tiers, nonprofit discounts, or flat pricing that scales slowly. Cost predictability often matters more than advanced features.
<h3>High turnover and shared access to critical accounts</h3>
Many nonprofits rely on volunteers, contractors, or part-time staff who rotate frequently. This creates a constant need to <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/prevent-password-theft-from-ex-employees" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">grant and revoke access to shared systems</a> without disrupting operations.
It also necessitates the easy-to-use options. Since volunteers might not have pre-existing skills, and training budgets are limited or non-existent, often the best choice is the most intuitive and not the one with the most features.
<h3>Compliance, transparency, and donor trust</h3>
Nonprofits are expected to maintain clear records and defensible processes. Donors and regulators want assurance that data, funds, and decisions are handled responsibly.
Software that supports audit trails, clear permissions, and consistent documentation helps nonprofits maintain trust while reducing administrative risk.
<h2>A practical nonprofit software stack built around free and low-cost tools</h2>
Nonprofits do not need complex or expensive systems to operate effectively. They need reliable tools that solve real operational problems, work well together, and remain affordable as the organization grows.
Here are 14 essential software categories most nonprofits rely on:
<ol>
<li><a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/what-is-a-password-manager" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Password manager and secure credential sharing</a></li>
<li>Office productivity and collaboration tools</li>
<li>Constituent relationship management software</li>
<li>E-signature and document workflow software</li>
<li>Fundraising and donation management tools</li>
<li>Event registration and ticketing software</li>
<li>Point of sale software for in-person donations</li>
<li>Email marketing and supporter communication</li>
<li>Project and task management software</li>
<li>Accounting and bookkeeping software</li>
<li>Volunteer management platforms</li>
<li>Social media management software</li>
<li>Website builders and donation page tools</li>
<li>File storage and collaboration platforms</li>
</ol>
Each category includes at least one free or low-cost option that meets core needs without adding unnecessary cost or complexity.
<h3>Password manager and secure credential sharing</h3>
Nonprofits rely heavily on shared accounts for banking portals, donor platforms, social media, email marketing tools, and vendor services. When <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/how-to-safely-share-passwords-with-coworkers" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">passwords are shared</a> informally through email, chat, or documents, access quickly becomes fragmented and insecure, especially as volunteers and staff rotate in and out.
TeamPassword is a low-cost password manager designed specifically for teams that need to share access safely, making it <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/best-password-manager-for-nonprofits" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">the best password manager for nonprofits</a>. It allows nonprofits to centralize credentials, control permissions, and remove access instantly without changing passwords or disrupting operations.
Here are some key benefits of TeamPassword:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/what-is-password-vaulting" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Secure shared vaults</a>: TeamPassword allows teams to access shared accounts without revealing the actual passwords to individual users. This can save your nonprofit money overall by allowing volunteers to share licenses of other pricy software.</li>
<li>Role-based permissions: Access can be limited by role, department, or project so users only see what they need, keeping your donors&rsquo; data secure.</li>
<li><a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/how-to-audit-passwords" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Clear audit visibility</a>: Activity logs show who accessed credentials and when, supporting accountability and internal controls and helping you eliminate underutilized software from your budget.</li>
<li>Fast onboarding and offboarding: New volunteers and staff gain access quickly, and departing users can be removed instantly.</li>
<li><a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/cheapest-password-managers" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Low, predictable pricing</a>: Flat, affordable pricing makes TeamPassword accessible for nonprofits without enterprise budgets.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Office productivity and collaboration tools</h3>
Nonprofits create and manage a constant flow of documents, spreadsheets, and presentations. Grant applications, budgets, board materials, and internal policies all require tools that support collaboration without complex setup or licensing overhead.
<a href="https://workspace.google.com/intl/en_ca/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Google Workspace</a>, including Docs, Sheets, and Slides, is the strongest free option for most nonprofits. They support real-time collaboration, autosave, version history, and easy sharing. The tools are widely understood, reduce training needs, and integrate cleanly with email and file storage.
<h3>Constituent relationship management software</h3>
Tracking donors, volunteers, partners, and beneficiaries is essential for continuity and accountability. Without a CRM, information becomes scattered across spreadsheets, inboxes, and individual memory, which increases risk as staff and volunteers change.
<a href="https://www.hubspot.com/nonprofits" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">HubSpot CRM</a> offers a robust free tier that covers contact management, notes, and basic reporting as well as special pricing for nonprofits. For nonprofits that need more customization, Zoho CRM provides a low-cost alternative with <a href="https://www.zoho.com/nonprofits/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">nonprofit-friendly pricing</a> and scalable features.
<h3>E-signature and document workflow software</h3>
Nonprofits regularly need signed agreements for volunteers, vendors, partners, and internal governance. Manual signing slows processes, increases errors, and creates storage challenges that complicate audits and reporting.
<a href="https://www.signtime.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">SignTime</a> provides legally valid electronic signatures at a cost that fits nonprofit budgets. It simplifies document workflows, maintains audit trails, and eliminates printing and scanning while supporting compliance requirements across common nonprofit use cases.
<h3>Fundraising and donation management tools</h3>
Digital fundraising supports sustainability by making it easy for supporters to give when motivation is high. Donation tracking and receipts are also critical for transparency and donor trust.
<a href="https://givebutter.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Givebutter</a> offers a free platform with donation pages, campaigns, and donor tracking supported by transaction fees. Donorbox is another low-cost option that integrates easily with existing websites and supports recurring donations.
<h3>Event registration and ticketing software</h3>
Events remain a core channel for fundraising, outreach, and community engagement. Manual registration processes create friction for attendees and staff alike.
Eventbrite provides a free option for no-cost events and simple paid ticketing as well as a <a href="https://www.eventbrite.ca/help/en-ca/articles/585157/can-my-nonprofit-or-charity-get-lower-fees-for-our-events/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">special nonprofits paid tier</a>. Givebutter also supports event registrations tied directly to fundraising campaigns, which works well for nonprofit-hosted gatherings and benefit events.
<h3>Point of sale software for in-person donations</h3>
Many nonprofits collect donations at events, pop-ups, and community spaces. Cash-only systems limit contributions and increase reconciliation work.
<a href="https://squareup.com/us/en/services/nonprofit" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Square</a> offers free point of sale software with affordable hardware and simple reporting. It supports card and contactless payments, issues digital receipts, and integrates smoothly with fundraising workflows.
<h3>Email marketing and supporter communication</h3>
Email remains one of the most effective channels for donor engagement and volunteer coordination. Consistent communication helps maintain relationships and encourage repeat involvement.
<a href="https://mailchimp.com/help/about-nonprofit-discount/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Mailchimp</a> provides a free tier suitable for small lists and basic campaigns as well as a 15% discount on paid tiers for nonprofits. <a href="https://www.brevo.com/blog/email-marketing-for-nonprofits/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Brevo</a> offers another low-cost option with strong transactional email support, making both platforms accessible for growing nonprofits.
<h3>Project and task management software</h3>
Nonprofits often manage multiple programs with limited staff and geographically distributed contributors. Without clear task ownership, important work can stall or be duplicated.
Notion offers a free, visual system for organizing tasks and projects. Its boards and cards are easy to understand, require little training, and work well for teams with mixed technical experience. <a href="https://www.notion.com/nonprofits" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Notion</a> also offers a 50% discount on paid tiers for nonprofits.
<h3>Accounting and bookkeeping software</h3>
Financial transparency is central to nonprofit credibility. Accurate records support audits, grant reporting, and informed decision-making.
<a href="https://www.waveapps.com/accounting/nonprofit" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Wave Accounting</a> provides free tools for income and expense tracking, invoicing, and reporting. It is well suited for small nonprofits that need clear financial visibility without the cost of full accounting suites.
<h3>Volunteer management platforms</h3>
Volunteers are essential to many nonprofits, but coordinating schedules and responsibilities can be complex. Manual systems increase no-shows and burnout.
<a href="https://www.signupgenius.com/how-to-use/nonprofit-volunteer-management" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">SignUpGenius</a> offers a free option for managing volunteer sign-ups and schedules. It reduces administrative effort while giving volunteers clarity about expectations and commitments.
<h3>Social media management software</h3>
Social platforms help nonprofits build awareness and engage supporters. Managing posts manually across channels consumes time and increases inconsistency.
<a href="https://buffer.com/nonprofits" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Buffer</a> provides a free plan that allows scheduling posts and reviewing basic performance metrics. It simplifies content planning and helps maintain a steady online presence. It also offers a 50% discount for non-profits
<h3>Website builders and donation page tools</h3>
A nonprofit website serves as a public trust signal and a primary entry point for donors and volunteers. Poor usability can undermine credibility.
<a href="http://wordpress.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">WordPress.com</a> offers a free starting point with customizable themes and basic SEO tools. It supports content publishing and integrates with donation platforms as needs evolve.
<h3>File storage and collaboration platforms</h3>
Nonprofits need secure, centralized access to documents across staff and volunteers. Local storage creates silos and increases the risk of data loss.
<a href="https://www.google.com/nonprofits/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Google Drive</a> provides free cloud storage with permission controls and version history. It supports collaboration across devices and integrates naturally with Google productivity tools.
<h2>TeamPassword is an essential part of every nonprofit software stack</h2>
Every tool in a nonprofit software stack depends on secure access. Email platforms, fundraising systems, financial tools, and social media accounts all rely on shared credentials that must remain protected as people join and leave the organization.
TeamPassword provides the foundation that makes this stack safe and manageable. By enabling secure sharing, clear permissions, and fast access changes at a low cost, TeamPassword helps nonprofits protect their systems, <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/cybersecurity-threats-for-nonprofits" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">prevent cyberattacks</a>, save money on other costly software, and operate with confidence as they grow.
TeamPassword is the best password manager for nonprofits. 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.

This guide to the essential software for nonprofits covers budget-friendly tools for teams, donors, and operations. Learn what matters most and take a look.

This guide to the essential software for nonprofits covers budget-friendly tools for teams, donors, and operations. Learn what ...

14 essential software packages for nonprofits (low-cost options only)

<article>
As a manager, your schedule is already overflowing. Between strategy meetings, personnel management, and putting out daily fires, finding time for proactive IT security feels nearly impossible. Often, <a href="https://teampassword.com/security" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">security</a> becomes something you only think about when there is a crisis.
But reliance on a "set it and forget it" approach to team access creates dangerous blind spots. A contractor leaves but still has the Google Drive password. An intern changes departments but keeps admin access to the company Twitter account. Over time, these small gaps compound into significant vulnerabilities.
The good news is that you don't need to perform a deep-dive forensic analysis every week to stay safe. Consistency beats intensity. A standardized, high-level scan conducted once a month can prevent an estimated 90% of common security lapses caused by human error and neglect.
Put a recurring 15-minute block on your calendar for the 1st of every month (5 minutes for the review, 10 minutes for coffee), and use this checklist to maintain a tight security perimeter.
<h2>1. The "Offboarding" Check (1 Minute)</h2>
Goal: Ensure no former employees retain access.
The most common security weakness in growing companies is "orphan accounts"&mdash;active accounts belonging to people who no longer work there. These are prime targets for attackers because no one is monitoring them.
<ul>
<li>Review Active Users: Open your main Team Member or User list in your password manager or primary identity tool.</li>
<li>Identify Leavers: Scan the list against mental notes of recent departures. Are there contractors whose projects ended last week? Employees who left in the last 30 days?</li>
<li>Action: If found, offboard them immediately. In TeamPassword, removing them automatically revokes their access to all shared groups and credentials instantly.</li>
</ul>
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/Q7wSEusR6yxZH0sLwBrP" alt="undefined" width="862" height="433">
TeamPassword's People view. Click Edit to remove a user.
<h2>2. The "Anomaly" Scan (2 Minutes)</h2>
Goal: Spot unusual behavior using the <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/activity-log-security-compliance" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Activity Log</a>.
You aren't looking to spy on your employees; you are looking for patterns that don't make sense. A quick glance at the high-level actions in your Activity Log can reveal red flags before they become incidents.
<ul>
<li>Filter by Action: Don't look at everything. Filter your Activity Log specifically for high-risk actions like "Deletions" or bulk "Exports."</li>
<li>Check Volumes and Times: Did one user export the entire client database at 11:30 PM on a Saturday? Did someone delete 15 critical passwords in a row on a Tuesday morning?</li>
<li>Action: If you see a spike in activity that doesn't match a known work project, send a quick, neutral message to that user to verify the intent. (e.g., "Hey, saw a bulk export on the weekend, just making sure that was you preparing for the Monday audit?") <img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/mbSZNLgqSIuWeEtjzf4U" alt="undefined" width="836" height="234"></li>
</ul>
<h2>3. The "Keys to the Castle" Check (1 Minute)</h2>
Goal: Protect your most critical assets by enforcing "<a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/what-is-the-principle-of-least-privilege" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">least privilege</a>."
Not everyone needs access to everything. Access creep happens when temporary permissions are granted for a specific project but never revoked once the project ends.
<ul>
<li>Select Critical Groups: Filter your view for your most sensitive groups, such as "Admin," "Financial Banking," or "Exec Social Media."</li>
<li>Verify Membership: Look at the list of people in those groups. Does the summer marketing intern still have access to the corporate bank login? Does a junior developer have production database access they no longer need? <img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/vLo1Eed4RoiGLbWOulPY" alt="undefined" width="764" height="433"></li>
<li>Action: Downgrade access immediately for anyone who has moved teams or no longer requires high-level clearance to do their daily job.</li>
</ul>
<h2>4. The "Health" Check (1 Minute)</h2>
Goal: Ensure hygiene in credential management.
Old passwords are inherently risky. If a service you use suffered a data breach two years ago, and you haven't changed that password since, you are vulnerable to credential stuffing attacks.
<ul>
<li>Sort by Date: Look at your organization's most frequently used logins.</li>
<li>Identify Stale Passwords: Check the "last modified" date. Are you still using a password created 3 years ago for your main info@ email account?</li>
<li>Action: You don't need to change everything today. Just flag one or two critical, outdated passwords to be rotated (updated) this week.</li>
</ul>
<hr>
<h3><img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/isOsG01EQMO9K6Bvh6GF" alt="undefined" width="834" height="455"></h3>
Feel free to right-click and save this image for future reference
<h3>Small Habits, Big Security</h3>
Security isn't a destination; it's a habit. By dedicating just five minutes a month to this review, you shift your posture from reactive to proactive. You gain the peace of mind that comes with knowing your perimeter is secure, your team has the access they need (and nothing more), and you aren't leaving doors unlocked for former employees.
Stop reading and set a recurring calendar appointment for the first of the month right now. Your future self will thank you.
Don't have a password manager? <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Sign up for TeamPassword's 14 day free trial</a>.&nbsp; 
Gain complete control and peace of mind with robust features designed for team collaboration:
<ul>
<li data-path-to-node="5,0,0">Integrated TOTP Authenticator: Generate time-based one-time passcodes directly within TeamPassword, eliminating the need for separate authenticator apps on your phone.</li>
<li data-path-to-node="5,1,0">Enforceable 2FA: Mandate two-factor authentication for every user across your organization, ensuring a consistent and high standard of security.</li>
<li data-path-to-node="5,2,0">Detailed Activity Logs: Maintain full visibility with a complete audit trail of who accessed what and when, perfect for security audits and accountability.</li>
<li data-path-to-node="5,3,0">Unlimited Records &amp; Groups: Store an infinite number of logins and organize them into logical groups by team, project, or client for easy access and management.</li>
<li data-path-to-node="5,4,0">Multiple User-Roles: Assign granular permissions to control exactly who can view, edit, and create credentials, ensuring access is granted only where it's needed.</li>
<li data-path-to-node="5,5,0">Free Google Sign-In: Simplify onboarding and daily access with secure, one-click login using your team's existing Google accounts.</li>
<li data-path-to-node="5,6,0">One-Time Share: Securely share a single password with an external contractor or partner for a limited time, without giving them permanent access to your records.</li>
</ul>
</article>

Prevent 90% of security lapses in just 5 minutes a month. Use this 4-step manager's checklist to spot orphan accounts, check activity logs, and secure your team.

Prevent 90% of security lapses in just 5 minutes a month. Use this 4-step manager's checklist to spot ...

The 5-Minute Monthly Security Audit: How to Prevent 90% of Breaches

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

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