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

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

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

Top 5 Dangerous Ways to Store Your Passwords

Let's get this out of the way first. Need a strong, secure Wi-Fi password? Don't reinvent the wheel. Head over to <a href="https://teampassword.com/password-generator" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">https://teampassword.com/password-generator</a> and crank out a random password that'd make a cybercriminal cry.
Now, back to the real conversation: how to make your Wi-Fi password both secure and, dare I say,&nbsp;usable.
<h2 data-sourcepos="5:1-5:52">Passphrases: The "Strong, But Not Cryptic" Option</h2>
Memorizing a string of gibberish like "j#42F7%U&amp;" is a recipe for frustration. That's where <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/how-to-build-a-passphrase" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">passphrases</a> come in. These are essentially multi-word passwords that combine dictionary words with symbols and numbers. Think of it like a super-powered sentence for your Wi-Fi network.
Here's why passphrases are a great option for Wi-Fi passwords:
<ul data-sourcepos="11:1-14:0">
<li data-sourcepos="11:1-11:192">Stronger than single words: While a single dictionary word is easily cracked by brute force attacks, throwing in a few extra words makes things exponentially more difficult for hackers.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="12:1-12:219">Easier to remember: Let's be honest, "CorrectHorseBatteryStaple" is way easier to recall than a random mix of letters and numbers. Plus, it becomes a fun little party trick when guests ask for the Wi-Fi password.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="13:1-14:0">More adaptable: Need a password for your guest network? Throw in "Guest_" at the beginning of your passphrase. Boom, instant guest network password that's both secure and distinct from your main network.</li>
</ul>
Here are some tips for creating strong passphrases:
<ul data-sourcepos="17:1-20:0">
<li data-sourcepos="17:1-17:129">Use at least 4 words: The more words, the better. Aim for a minimum of 4 words to make brute-forcing significantly harder.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="18:1-18:154">Combine word types: Mix up noun verbs, adjectives, and adverbs to create a more complex passphrase. "PurpleSkiesOverFridayNight" is a good example.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="19:1-20:0">Include symbols and numbers: To further increase entropy, we recommend adding symbols and numbers to your passphrase. You can replace letters with them or use them as "spaces" in between your words.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<h2 data-sourcepos="21:1-21:64">Using QR Codes for Wi-Fi Access</h2>
Typing in a complex Wi-Fi password on a tiny phone screen can be a nightmare. Enter the magic of QR codes. These little square barcodes can store information, including your Wi-Fi network details. Here's how to use them to breeze through Wi-Fi connection on both Android and iPhone:
Android:
<ol data-sourcepos="27:1-33:0">
<li data-sourcepos="27:1-27:26">Open your Settings app.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="28:1-28:82">Navigate to "Network &amp; internet" or "Connections" depending on your device.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="29:1-29:18">Tap on "Wi-Fi".</li>
<li data-sourcepos="30:1-30:62">Find your Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and tap and hold on it.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="31:1-31:39">Select "Share" from the pop-up menu.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="32:1-33:0">You'll see a QR code generated with your Wi-Fi network information encoded.</li>
</ol>
You can screenshot this for easy access later if you want.
iPhone:
<ol data-sourcepos="36:1-41:0">
<li data-sourcepos="36:1-36:25">Open the Settings app.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="37:1-37:18">Tap on "Wi-Fi".</li>
<li data-sourcepos="38:1-38:77">Find your Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and tap the small "i" icon next to it.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="39:1-39:78">Under "Password", you'll see a QR code icon appear to the right. Tap on it.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="40:1-41:0">Your iPhone will display a QR code containing your Wi-Fi network details.</li>
</ol>
If your guest also has an Apple device, you can <a href="https://support.apple.com/en-us/102635" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">share the WiFi password over Bluetooth</a>.&nbsp;
Now, when your tech-challenged houseguests arrive, simply whip out your phone and display the QR code. Their devices will automatically scan the code and connect to your Wi-Fi network &ndash; no more fumbling with cryptic passwords.&nbsp;
<h2 data-sourcepos="1:1-1:47">The Password Manager Advantage: Beyond Wi-Fi</h2>
While a password manager excels at keeping your Wi-Fi network secure, its benefits extend far beyond your home network. It can truly streamline your entire digital life, making managing your online accounts a breeze.
A password manager acts as a universal vault for your online credentials. From social media accounts to online banking and shopping sites, it securely stores your login details for all your online ventures. No longer will you need to wrack your brain trying to remember that password you used for an obscure travel booking website three years ago.
If you&rsquo;re tired of manually entering login information repeatedly, password managers offer a solution with automatic form filling. They can auto-fill login forms on websites and apps, saving you time and sparing you the frustration of repetitive typing.
Creating strong, unique passwords for every account can be overwhelming, but a password manager simplifies this task. It generates complex, random passwords for all your accounts, eliminating the risk of reusing weak passwords across platforms and strengthening your overall digital security.
Sometimes, you may need to share login credentials with a trusted friend or family member. Password managers make this process secure by offering features that allow temporary access to credentials without exposing the actual password, ensuring convenience without compromising safety.
Most password managers are designed with cross-platform compatibility in mind. Whether you&rsquo;re using a desktop computer, smartphone, or tablet, these tools allow you to access your passwords anytime, anywhere, ensuring seamless functionality across all your devices.
<h2>Choosing the Right Password Manager: It's Not Just About Price</h2>
When selecting a password manager, it's essential to weigh your options carefully. Each manager comes with its own set of features, pricing structures, and capabilities, so making the right choice depends on your needs and priorities.
Security should be your top priority. Look for a password manager that employs robust encryption methods and offers features like two-factor authentication to add an extra layer of protection to your data.
Features play a significant role in determining which password manager will work best for you. Think about what functionalities are most important to your digital life. Do you need automatic form filling? Secure password sharing? Cross-platform compatibility? Be sure to select a manager that aligns with your specific requirements.
Ease of use is another crucial factor. A password manager should simplify your digital life, not complicate it. Opt for one with a user-friendly interface and smooth navigation on all your devices.
Finally, consider pricing. Password managers come in both free and premium versions. While free versions usually provide basic functionality, premium options often include added benefits like secure password sharing, unlimited storage, and priority customer support. Decide what level of service best suits your needs and budget.
Here are a few popular password managers to get you started:
<ul data-sourcepos="22:1-26:0">
<li data-sourcepos="22:1-22:106"><a href="https://teampassword.com/" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">TeamPassword</a>: An affordable, small-business-focused option known for its intuitive UI and stellar customer support.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="23:1-23:126"><a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/1password-alternatives" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">1Password</a>: Known for its user-friendly interface and strong security features. Offers individual, family, and business plans.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="24:1-24:124"><a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/dashlane-alternatives" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Dashlane</a>: Another strong contender with a focus on security and ease of use. Free option is very limited, but has solid premium versions.</li>
<li data-sourcepos="25:1-26:0"><a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/bitwarden-alternatives" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Bitwarden</a>: A great open-source option that offers robust features at a competitive price (including a free tier).</li>
</ul>
<h2 data-sourcepos="27:1-27:42">Wrapping Up: Wi-Fi Security and Beyond</h2>
We covered creating strong, memorable Wi-Fi passwords (thanks, passphrases!), the convenience of QR code access, and the ultimate security blanket &ndash; a password manager. Remember, strong Wi-Fi security is just one piece of the cybersecurity puzzle. By using a password manager and practicing <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/ultimate-guide-to-password-security-teampassword" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">good online hygiene</a>, you can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to cyberattacks and keep your digital life safe and sound.
Now, go forth and conquer the internet with confidence (and maybe even impress your guests with a slick QR code Wi-Fi connection).
Sign up for a <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">14-day free trial of TeamPassword</a> today!

Secure your WiFi network with our comprehensive guide on generating strong passwords, using QR codes for sharing, and managing credentials with password managers.

Secure your WiFi network with our comprehensive guide on generating strong passwords, using QR codes for sharing, and ...

WiFi Password Generator

Social media is the core of modern marketing strategy. It's an opportunity for brands to engage with their target market while driving traffic to products and services.
Many social media platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest only allow a single account login&mdash;meaning team members have to share credentials. It's also common for agencies to use their client's login credentials temporarily while working with them.&nbsp;
Why do you need to share social media credentials securely?&nbsp;
If you're not securely sharing social media credentials with teammates and clients, you could expose your company, clients, and customers to cyberattacks from malicious actors and data leaks.&nbsp;
TeamPassword is a <a href="https://teampassword.com/features" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">password manager</a> designed to help small businesses and agencies <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/how-to-safely-share-passwords-with-coworkers" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">share credentials with coworkers safely</a> and efficiently. Try TeamPassword for your company with a <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">14-day free trial</a>.
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<h2 id="securityrisks">Common Security Risks When Sharing Social Media Passwords</h2>
 Reckless sharing methods like spreadsheets, emails, or text messages increase vulnerability.
What Could Hackers Do With Your Social Media Account? If a hacker gains access, they could:
<ul>
<li>Change your account&rsquo;s login details and lock you out.</li>
<li>Post malicious content to scam your followers.</li>
<li>Steal private customer data from direct messages.</li>
</ul>
What Happens if Your Passwords end up in the Wrong Hands?
Several things could happen if your social media passwords end up in the wrong hands:
<ol>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Attackers could change your email and password, locking you out and holding the account ransom.&nbsp;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Post content to scam users out of money&mdash;one of the fallouts from the <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/what-happened-during-the-twitter-spear-phishing-attack" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">2020 Twitter spear-phishing attack</a>.&nbsp;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Steal customer data from direct messages.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">If you use the same credentials for other social media accounts, hackers could log into those too&mdash;also known as <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/appletree-to-anarchy-credential-stuffing" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">credential stuffing</a>.</li>
</ol>
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<h3>What if you Forget Your Passwords?</h3>
In most cases, you can reset your password very easily using your email address. But there are instances where you might forget your password and no longer have access to the email address&mdash;something that's very possible at a company where the person who set up the social media account has left the company!
If you've forgotten your Facebook password, you have several recovery options, but other social media platforms only allow a standard password reset.&nbsp;
Recovering a social media account without access to an email address is near impossible. Just getting customer support to help you is a monumental challenge. Ever tried to contact customer support at a social media company? They rarely ever reply or offer any meaningful support!
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<h3>The Responsibility of Clients' Social Media Assets</h3>
Marketing agencies also need to consider the risk of losing their clients' social media accounts to hackers&mdash;which could be disastrous for a client's brand and your contract!
Not only do you have to worry about the social media accounts themselves, but hackers using the profile's contact details (like mobile number and email) for spear phishing attacks on your clients.
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You can manage these social media risks with one easy and affordable <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">password management solution from TeamPassword</a>.
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<h2 id="usingapasswordmanager">The Solution: Using a Password Manager for Social Media Credentials</h2>
A password manager lets you store and <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/keeping-data-secure-when-working-with-freelancers" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">share credentials with freelancers</a> and employees. We designed TeamPassword for small businesses and agencies to share credentials with internal and external team members securely.

<h3>1: Share social media credentials through groups</h3>
Create groups for your social media accounts in TeamPassword and invite team members who need access. When someone leaves the team, simply revoke their access with a single click.
TeamPassword lets you connect multiple groups to the same credentials so that you can separate access by internal teams, freelancers, and clients, for example. This separation makes it easier to manage an entire group or set different rules for each team.
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/YcjhIgIrQbiqaYlPjeVI" alt="undefined" width="736" height="480">
<h3>2: Log in to social media using TeamPassword</h3>
Instead of remembering and typing a username and password to log into social media accounts, team members can use TeamPassword's browser extensions or our mobile app.
TeamPassword has browser extensions for Firefox, Chrome, and Safari so that team members can access accounts no matter their preferred operating system.&nbsp;
When a team member logs into a social media platform, TeamPassword's browser extension shows the available accounts. There's also a search function to quickly find the credentials. Select the one you need, and TeamPassword populates the username and password fields for you to log in&mdash;easy!
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/0gCOt5oQBCE1vxckmRZC" alt="TP extension in action GIF (video) (1).gif" width="787" height="443">
Teams can also use TeamPassword's app (iOS and Android) to log into mobile-only applications. They can search for the credentials in TeamPassword, then copy/paste the username and password to log in.
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<h3>3: Create robust usernames and passwords</h3>
Create robust passwords for every social media account with TeamPassword's built-in <a href="https://teampassword.com/password-generator" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">password generator</a>, and learn how to create your own&nbsp;<a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/best-types-of-usernames-username-ideas-to-make-your-logins-more-secure" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">usernames</a> to make credentials extra secure!
TeamPassword's password generator lets you create passwords from 12-32 characters with numbers, uppercase, lowercase, and symbols. When you reset a password in TeamPassword, it updates the new credentials for all team members so work can continue without disruptions.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;
<h3>4: Secure TeamPassword with Two-Step Authentication</h3>
What happens if attackers steal someone's TeamPassword credentials? Every <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/2fa-vs-mfa" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">TeamPassword account has 2FA</a> so that team members can create a second authentication step using the Google Authenticator app (iOS &amp; Android).
So, if attackers steal a team member's TeamPassword account, they can't log in without the six-digital Google Authenticator code. Employees can also generate backup codes, so they never get locked out of their TeamPassword account.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
<h3>5: Tracking Activity</h3>
TeamPassword's activity log lets you track team members' actions like logins, sharing, password resets, new team members, and more. The activity log also helps investigate unauthorized sharing and access.
You can also set up email notifications for all TeamPassword actions to get instant alerts to sensitive accounts.
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/OPlwxwskSCGTs0vVbzgK" alt="undefined" width="735" height="174">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
<h2 id="othertools">Other Tools to Manage Social Media Securely</h2>
Social media management tools not only help manage accounts but also limit access to social media accounts. Teams can do a lot of social media tasks through these apps, minimizing the necessity to log into the actual social media platform.
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Here are some of our top social media tools:&nbsp;
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;
Buffer
Buffer is a popular social media management and analytics platform. You can schedule, publish, and engage with followers, so team members can do most of the work from Buffer rather than logging into the social media account.
You have to pay per social media account and double for the team pack add-on, so it might be best to get the single user and share access through TeamPassword.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
Hootsuite
Hootsuite is one of the largest and most comprehensive social media management tools available. They also have a fantastic resources section and Hootsuite Academy to learn about social media strategies and getting the most out of the tool.
Hootsuite is slightly cheaper than Buffer, but you still pay more for additional users, so we recommend using a <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">password manager</a> and sharing credentials.
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Sprout Social
Sprout Social is another social media management application, but with excellent monitoring and analysis tools. The UI makes it easy to generate reports and insights into hashtags, trends, engagement, user data, and more!
At $99 per month per user, Sprout Social is expensive, so you might want to consider sharing access rather than having a separate login for every person.
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BuzzSumo
BuzzSumo is an excellent tool for discovering the most shared blog content on social media. You can also find influencers in your niche that are likely to share or promote your content.
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MeetEdgar
MeetEdgar is the social media management tool for small businesses and startups. The app automates many mundane social media tasks and will even recycle old content on the days you forget to schedule something!
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<h2 id="managingallyourtools">Managing ALL Your Tools and Digital Assets With TeamPassword</h2>
TeamPassword's password manager is not just for social media accounts but all your company's digital assets.
Each team member can also store their private credentials (Slack, email, LinkedIn, etc.) in TeamPassword, so no company passwords are ever exposed!
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;
<h3>Is TeamPassword Safe?</h3>
TeamPassword uses <a href="https://teampassword.com/security" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">state-of-the-art encryption technology</a> to store your company's passwords. We hash, salt, and encrypt passwords locally on your computer before uploading them to our servers&mdash;not even TeamPassword employees can view your passwords!
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;
Our developers follow strict security protocols when deploying code and updates and carry out frequent vulnerability sweeps to scan our systems for viruses and ensure no backdoors lead to your sensitive data.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
<h3>Getting Started With TeamPassword</h3>
How your company can get started sharing passwords safely in five easy steps:
<ol>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Sign up for a free 14-day trial</a></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Add your company's shared credentials to TeamPassword</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Invite team members to create their TeamPassword account&mdash;make sure you instruct everyone to set up 2FA and security codes before they start using their account</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Create groups and share access with relevant team members</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Team members use TeamPassword's browser extensions or mobile app to log into accounts</li>
</ol>
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;
Secure your company's social media accounts and other digital assets with TeamPassword's robust password management solution today!

Discover the best practices for sharing social media passwords securely. Protect your accounts, streamline collaboration, and prevent unauthorized access with tools like TeamPassword.

Discover the best practices for sharing social media passwords securely. Protect your accounts, streamline collaboration, and prevent unauthorized ...

How to Share Social Media Credentials Securely With Your Team

We've all succumbed to the pressure of Google Chrome's offer to "save this password". If you're concerned about the security or privacy risks of Chrome's password manager or already use a dedicated password manager and are annoyed by Chrome's popup every time you create an account, this article will show you how to disable it quickly.
<a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/5-tips-to-increase-security-for-your-remote-workforce" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Security concerns</a> are often the main reason to disable Google Chrome's built-in password manager. If a cybercriminal hacks the Google account where these passwords are saved and synced, they can go on to breach all your other accounts. Disabling the password manager can reduce this risk.
Many prefer (and we recommend) using a dedicated third-party password manager. These applications provide more robust security features, cross-platform compatibility, and additional functionalities like customizable password generators and sharing. Disabling the browser's password manager allows users to rely solely on their preferred third-party solution.
TeamPassword is a secure, affordable, and modern password manager for businesses. <a href="https://teampassword.com/pricing" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Grab your TeamPassword Free Trial for your organization today!</a>
<h2 id="howtodisablegooglechrome">How to Disable Google Chrome Password Manager</h2>
For Chrome users on Windows and Mac:
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/949BjFiESq6fx28UDdBE" alt="undefined" width="415" height="454">
<ol>
<li>Click your profile icon in the top right corner of your browser window.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Click the key symbol to open Google Password Manager.<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/yVnDVLq1SJqibPtnsfmV" alt="Turn off offer to save passwords.png" width="1090" height="191"></li>
<li>Select&nbsp;Settings, then toggle&nbsp;Offer to save passwords off.&nbsp;</li>
</ol>

For Chrome users on iOS and Android:
<ol>
<li>Tap your profile icon, then Google Password Manager under Basics.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Tab the gear icon (Settings) on the bottom menu.</li>
<li>Turn off Offer to save passwords.&nbsp;</li>
</ol>
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/HXuQeIAQRuKqKMkEVyLi" alt="undefined" width="270" height="525">
<h2 id="howtodeletechromepasswords">How to Delete and Export Saved Passwords in Google Chrome Password Manager</h2>
To delete saved passwords from Chrome Password Manager, follow these 4 steps:
<ol>
<li>Click your profile icon in the top right corner of your browser window.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Click the key symbol to open Google Password Manager.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Click the password you wish to delete. You may have to enter your device password to unlock this view.</li>
<li>Click Delete</li>
</ol>
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/Evpb6ocETgGMwqOQU4dQ" alt="undefined" width="492" height="186">
Before deleting passwords in the Google Password Manager, you may want to export them. 
Here's how to export your passwords from the Google Password Manager in Chrome:&nbsp;
<ol>
<li>Click your profile icon in the top right corner of your browser window.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Click the key symbol to open Google Password Manager.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Select&nbsp;Settings from the tabs on the left</li>
<li>Find&nbsp;Export passwords and click&nbsp;Download file</li>
</ol>
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/r5YTNXjXTXaNs0B4UR8e" alt="undefined" width="708" height="278">
This exports all your passwords into a plaintext 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-microsoft-edge-password-manager" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">How to Disable Microsoft Edge 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="ischromesafe">Is Google Chrome Password Manager Safe?</h2>
As <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/are-chrome-passwords-safe" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">we've written before</a>, Chrome wasn't built to be a password manager.
If someone steals your device at a coffee shop or hacks your Google account, they may have access to all of your passwords. Chrome doesn't automatically log you out at an interval of your choosing or when you close the browser. That would be inconvenient! In a nutshell, Google Chrome's password manager is not as safe as a dedicated password manager.&nbsp;
Chrome's solution focuses on convenience, and if you keep track of which devices you're signed into, lock your devices securely, and don't share passwords, credentials, or devices with anyone, the Google Chrome password manager may be safe enough. Even if you have all that covered, Chrome's password manager lacks support for document storage, other browsers, or non-browser uses, which means you'll need another password manager for those applications.&nbsp;
What if you use Safari on your iPhone or Mac? In that scenario, Chrome's password manager won't help you at all.
That's why we recommend using a dedicated third-party tool that works on&nbsp;all&nbsp;your devices and browsers and encrypts your data with military-grade AES 256-bit encryption, advanced 2FA options, and uses a zero-knowledge design, so don't have to trust Google to keep your passwords safe!
If you need to share passwords with your team, look through our list of the <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/best-password-managers-for-teams" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">best password managers for teams</a>.&nbsp;
<h2>How TeamPassword Can Help</h2>
<a href="https://teampassword.com/" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">TeamPassword</a> is a secure, efficient, and affordable solution for storing and managing your passwords that doesn't leave you vulnerable to Chrome 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 Chrome's built-in features, password managers are significantly more secure.
TeamPassword offers a Chrome 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 Chrome'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.
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 TeamPassword for free</a> today!

Keeping track of passwords has gotten out of hand. Chrome offers a built-in solution, Google Password Manager, which might not be right for you. Learn how to disable it!

Keeping track of passwords has gotten out of hand. Chrome offers a built-in solution, Google Password Manager, which ...

How to Disable Chrome's Password Manager in 3 Steps

How to Disable Google Chrome's Password Manager in 3 Steps

In today's digital world, safeguarding our online accounts and sensitive information is of paramount importance. Traditionally, passwords have been the go-to method for protecting our digital assets. However, a&nbsp;new contender has emerged - passkeys. In this blog post, we will explore the intricacies of passkeys and passwords, highlighting their differences, similarities, benefits, challenges, and limitations. By the end, you'll have a better understanding of which is more secure and what the adoption of passkeys means for you.
<h2 id="whatispasskey">What Is a Passkey?</h2>
In technical terms, a passkey is a unique cryptographic key that is generated and used for authentication purposes. It is based on public-key cryptography, which involves a pair of keys: a public key and a private key.
When a user creates a passkey, the system generates a public-private key pair. The public key is shared with the service provider or server, while the private key is securely stored on the user's device. The passkey is usually protected by a user-generated PIN or biometric authentication.
When the user wants to authenticate themselves, the server sends a challenge to the user's device. The device then uses the private key to sign the challenge, creating a digital signature. The server verifies the signature using the user's public key, and if the signature is valid, the user is granted access.
What does a passkey mean for you?
<ol>
<li>Because passkeys cannot be shared like passwords and only exist on your device, a bad actor can't trick you into sharing them.&nbsp;</li>
<li>You don't have to remember passwords for accounts that support passkeys. Instead, you use a local PIN or the same biometric authentication method you use to unlock you device (like fingerprint or face).</li>
</ol>
Passkeys validate you when you prove that you own the authorized device, rather than when you know the correct password. The PIN or biometric authentication is your private key - it's not shared to a server.
In summary: passkeys are faster and safer. The internet is moving toward passkeys, but it will be years before they're universally supported.&nbsp;
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/v68FqF4QRxyfrp4ZAERc" width="475" height="239" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
Time spent authenticating with passkey vs password (data from March-April 2023). Dashed, vertical lines indicate average duration for each authentication method (n&asymp;100M)&nbsp;
Source: <a href="https://security.googleblog.com/2023/05/making-authentication-faster-than-ever.html" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Google Blog</a>
<h3>How Does a Passkey Work?</h3>
Passkeys offer a more secure alternative to passwords by utilizing asymmetric encryption, a cryptographic technique that employs a pair of mathematically linked keys: a public key and a private key. Here's a breakdown of how it works and its advantages:
The Key Pair:
<ol data-sourcepos="7:1-7:5">
<li data-sourcepos="7:1-7:5">
Private Key: This key is the crown jewel, kept securely on the user's device (phone, computer, etc.) It's like a super-secret recipe only the user possesses. Passwords managers or secure enclaves within the device can be used for secure storage and access control (often requiring biometrics or a PIN).
</li>
<li data-sourcepos="9:1-10:0">
Public Key: This key, as the name suggests, can be shared with the service provider (website, app) during registration. Think of it as a publicly available lock. While anyone can see it, only the private key (the recipe) can unlock it.
</li>
</ol>
The Authentication Dance:
<ol data-sourcepos="13:1-15:5">
<li data-sourcepos="13:1-14:0">
Challenge Issued: During login, the service provider generates a random challenge, a piece of data unique to that login attempt.
</li>
<li data-sourcepos="15:1-15:5">
Challenge Encryption: The service provider encrypts the challenge using the user's public key (the publicly available lock). This encryption ensures only the corresponding private key can decrypt it.
</li>
<li data-sourcepos="17:1-18:0">
Private Key Decryption: The challenge is sent to the user's device. There, the private key decrypts the challenge, proving the user possesses the key that matches the public key shared with the service provider.
</li>
<li data-sourcepos="19:1-20:0">
Verification and Access: The decrypted challenge is sent back to the service provider. If the decrypted challenge matches the original challenge, it confirms the user holds the private key and grants access.
</li>
</ol>
For a more in-depth explanation of how passkeys work, read the article: <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/passkey-technology" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">How do passkeys work?</a>&nbsp;
<h3>Benefits of Passkeys:</h3>
Passkeys offer enhanced security by eliminating vulnerabilities associated with traditional passwords. They are immune to common threats like phishing and password reuse, ensuring that there are no "weak" or "reused" passkeys to exploit. Even if a cybercriminal breaches a website and accesses your public key, it&rsquo;s useless without the corresponding private key, which is securely stored on your device.
In addition to being secure, passkeys are incredibly convenient and user-friendly. They eliminate the need to remember complex passwords, offering a seamless authentication experience that reduces frustration and increases efficiency.
Another advantage is their reduced reliance on servers. Since passkeys aren&rsquo;t stored on centralized databases, they are less vulnerable to large-scale data breaches, giving users peace of mind about the safety of their information.
<h3>Drawbacks of Passkeys</h3>
While passkeys have many advantages, they aren&rsquo;t without drawbacks. One limitation is the reliance on specific devices. Since private keys are stored on your device, losing access to that device can lock you out of your accounts unless you have a secure backup or recovery method in place.
Compatibility can also be an issue, as not all platforms or services currently support passkeys. Users may find themselves juggling multiple authentication methods, reducing the overall convenience.
Finally, transitioning to passkeys requires an upfront investment of time and resources, particularly for organizations. Training users and implementing the necessary infrastructure can pose challenges, especially for businesses with limited IT expertise or budgets.
By weighing these benefits and drawbacks, users can decide if passkeys are the right solution for their security and usability needs.
<h2 id="whatispassword">What Is a Password?</h2>
A password is a string of characters used to authenticate a user's identity. It is a secret piece of information known only to the user and the service provider. Passwords have been widely used as a security measure for online accounts, applications, and various digital services.
<h3>How Does a Password Work?</h3>
Passwords are typically stored on servers, either in plaintext (not secure) or in a hashed and salted format (more secure). During authentication, the user provides their password, which is then compared against the stored value. If the two match, the user is granted access.
If a hacker were to gain access to the server where the passwords are stored, they would have complete control over all the accounts. That's why passwords are hashed using one-way mathematical functions called hashing algorithms.
Here's a deeper dive into how password hashing works:
<ol data-sourcepos="5:1-7:2">
<li data-sourcepos="5:1-6:0">
Hashing Algorithms: When a user creates a password, it's fed through a hashing algorithm. This algorithm scrambles the password into a fixed-length string of characters, called a hash. Common hashing algorithms used include SHA-256 and bcrypt.&nbsp;
</li>
<li data-sourcepos="7:1-7:2">
One-Way Function: A crucial property of hashing algorithms is that they are one-way functions. This means it's easy to compute the hash from the original password, but mathematically impossible to reverse the process and recover the original password from the hash.
</li>
<li data-sourcepos="9:1-10:0">
Hashes Don't Reveal the Password: Since the hash is a scrambled version of the password, even if a hacker steals the hashed passwords, they cannot directly translate the hash back into the original password.
</li>
<li data-sourcepos="11:1-11:138">
Salting: To further enhance security, a random string of characters, called a salt, is often added to the password before hashing. The salt is unique for each user and adds another layer of protection. Even if two users have the same password, their hashed passwords will be different because of the unique salt value.
</li>
<li data-sourcepos="13:1-14:0">
Verification During Login: When a user logs in, the entered password is hashed using the same algorithm and salt (if used) as during account creation. The resulting hash is then compared to the stored hash. If the hashes match, the login is successful, otherwise, access is denied.
</li>
</ol>
Here's an analogy: Imagine a hashing algorithm as a special one-way recipe that turns an ingredient (password) into a unique dish (hash). You can easily follow the recipe to cook the dish, but just by tasting the dish, it's impossible to know the exact ingredients used.<tunable-selection-menu _nghost-ng-c1765655038="" data-test-id="tunable-selection-menu" _ngcontent-ng-c2692474568=""></tunable-selection-menu>

<h3>Benefits of Passwords:</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Familiarity and compatibility: Passwords have been the de facto method of authentication for decades, making them widely supported across various systems and platforms.</li>
<li>Ease of implementation: Implementing password-based authentication is relatively straightforward for service providers and doesn't require specialized infrastructure.</li>
<li>Accessibility: Passwords can be easily shared or communicated, enabling account access for multiple users or in emergency situations.</li>
<li>Incremental security measures: Additional security measures like two-factor authentication (2FA) can be easily integrated with passwords for added protection.</li>
</ul>
<h2 id="similarities">Passkey vs. Password: Key Similarities</h2>
Here are the key similarities between passkeys and passwords:
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Both serve as methods of authentication and identity verification.</li>
<li>They protect access to digital assets, online accounts, and services.</li>
<li>Both can be combined with other security measures, such as multi-factor authentication, for enhanced security.</li>
<li>Both passkeys and passwords require proper management and consideration of security best practices. With passwords, users must keep them private. With passkeys, users must not let their device fall into the wrong hands.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<h2 id="differences">Passkey vs. Password: Key Differences</h2>
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/W77HtYqPR6KP1aTApeoF" alt="Comparison of four differences between passkeys and passwords. Described under the heading Passkey vs. Password: Key Differences " width="711" height="533">
Here are the key differences between passkeys and passwords:
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Passkeys are generated using cryptographic techniques, while passwords are user-generated.</li>
<li>Passkeys are typically not transmitted or stored on servers, whereas passwords are usually stored on servers in some form - albeit in a hashed and salted form.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Passkeys are more resistant to phishing attacks, while passwords are vulnerable to phishing and other social engineering techniques.</li>
<li>Passkeys are not as widely supported as passwords across all platforms and services.</li>
<li>The complexity and security of passkeys are typically higher than those of passwords.</li>
</ul>
<h2 id="challenges">Current Passkey Challenges and Limitations</h2>
While passkeys promise robust security and ease of use, they are not without challenges. One of the most significant barriers to widespread adoption is limited support across platforms and services. Although major companies like Apple, Google, and Microsoft are championing passkeys, many websites and applications have yet to implement this technology. This fragmented adoption creates inconsistencies, forcing users to rely on traditional passwords or other authentication methods for services that don&rsquo;t yet support passkeys. Until universal support becomes a reality, users may face the inconvenience of managing multiple authentication systems.
Another limitation is device dependency. Passkeys are tied to the user&rsquo;s device, where cryptographic keys are securely stored. While this design enhances security by keeping the private key offline and inaccessible to attackers, it also introduces risks. If a user loses access to their device&mdash;due to theft, damage, or a technical malfunction&mdash;they may find themselves locked out of their accounts. For instance, transferring passkeys to a new device can be cumbersome, and not all platforms have seamless migration processes in place.
Recovery and backup are also more complex with passkeys than with traditional passwords. Passwords often come with built-in recovery options, such as "Forgot Password" links or email-based resets. Passkeys, however, require a more robust recovery mechanism, such as securely stored backups or syncing across devices through a trusted cloud service. For users who fail to set up such measures, losing a passkey could mean losing access to critical accounts permanently.
Another challenge arises when it comes to account sharing, particularly for families or teams. Traditional password-sharing methods, while not ideal for security, are straightforward. Passkeys, however, are designed to be unique to the individual and tied to a specific device. This makes sharing credentials for joint accounts&mdash;such as a shared family streaming service or a work-related tool&mdash;impractical with current technology. While companies are exploring ways to enable secure passkey sharing, such as cloud-based sharing systems, the concept raises new security concerns. For example, do users really want their biometric data, like fingerprints, associated with shared accounts or stored in external systems?
These limitations highlight that while passkeys are a step forward in authentication technology, they are not yet a one-size-fits-all solution. Continued innovation and widespread adoption are needed to address these challenges and make passkeys a truly universal and practical option for users and organizations alike.

<h2 id="whichisbest">Passkey vs. Password: Which Is Best for You?</h2>
Passkeys are the inevitable future of authentication. We recommend adopting them where possible, but for now, the possibilities are limited.&nbsp;
Passkeys are undoubtedly more secure than passwords due to their resistance to common attack vectors. However, given the current limitations and challenges surrounding passkey adoption, passwords still play a crucial role in digital security. Implement strong password management practices, such as using unique passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and regularly updating passwords.
While we wait for passkeys to become more mainstream, teams can boost their security by utilizing password management solutions like TeamPassword. TeamPassword offers features like <a href="https://teampassword.com/features" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">secure password sharing</a>, centralized management, and <a href="https://teampassword.com/security" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">strong encryption</a>, enabling teams to maintain robust security practices.
In the ongoing battle between passkeys and passwords, there is no definitive winner. Passkeys offer increased security but are limited in adoption and sharing capabilities, while passwords continue to be widely supported but have their vulnerabilities. As technology evolves, passkeys will become more prevalent, but until then, it's crucial to manage passwords effectively and leverage tools like TeamPassword to ensure optimal security for your team's digital assets.
Get a <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">free trial of TeamPassword</a> now!

What's the difference between a passkey vs. password? In this guide, we answer this question and more so you can choose the best security method for your team.

What's the difference between a passkey vs. password? In this guide, we answer this question and more so ...

Passkey vs. Password: Which Is Right for You?

Quishing is the latest tool cybercriminals are deploying to steal data, personal information, money and anything else they can get their hands on.&nbsp;

Imagine this:&nbsp;

You sit down at a restaurant for a nice meal. The restaurant changes their offerings so often that they&rsquo;ve abandoned printed menus, so now you need to scan a QR code to review the menu on their website. You scan the code and wind up on their website&mdash;or is it? Turns out someone has affixed a QR sticker perfectly over top of the original, leading you to a spoofed page in the hopes of stealing your information. This is a QR code phishing scam, commonly referred to as a quishing attack, and they are becoming a lot more common.&nbsp;

TeamPassword makes it easy to keep your accounts safe from cybercriminals. Don&rsquo;t believe us? Sign up for a <a style="text-decoration: none;" href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">14-day free trial today</a> and try for yourself.
<h2>What is quishing?&nbsp;</h2>

Here is a simple definition of quishing:

Quishing definition: Quishing, for QR codes + phishing, is a cybersecurity attack that uses QR codes to trick individuals into landing on spoofed versions of the websites they are expecting.

Simply put, quishing is the latest version of phishing. As a refresher, here&rsquo;s the progression in cyberattack attack vectors from email through phone calls and text messages and now to:

<ul>
<li>
<a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/spear-phishing" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Phishing</a> uses emails to guide people towards spoofed homepages to steal data.
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/vishing" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Vishing</a>, for voice + phishing, uses the phone with a similar goal in mind&mdash;to get the person to divulge personal or corporate information that can be used in further cyberattacks.
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/smishing" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Smishing</a> takes advantage of the poor spam protection in place for SMS messaging to use text messages as the attack vector.
</li>
<li>
Quishing utilizes QR codes as part of a phishing campaign. As such, quishing can be combined with smishing or traditional email phishing campaigns as well as by itself using QR code stickers in the real world.&nbsp;
</li>
</ul>
<h2>Quishing tactics</h2>
Phishing, smishing and vishing attacks typically attempt to either entice you to click a link with the promise of a reward or scare you into clicking with the warning of some major financial loss.&nbsp;

This is somewhat different from quishing attacks, which can be considered more of a trick or disguised link. Instead of convincing you to click on a link with a reward promise or a threat, quishing utilizes QR codes that lead to seemingly legitimate websites.&nbsp;

This is done in two main ways:
<h3>Online quishing attacks</h3>

Online quishing attacks largely take place in email and SMS messages, but quishing can also occur anywhere QR codes are commonly displayed, including social media, advertisements, and other websites.&nbsp;

The typical approach is to fool someone into scanning the QR code by making an email or advertisement look legitimate.Then, the linked website leads to a spoofed version of a legitimate site where a user may accidentally divulge important information.&nbsp;
<h3>QR stickers</h3>

Quishing attacks often begin with a technology that has been around for almost 100 years: stickers. These tactics are particularly devious because they catch people when they aren&rsquo;t paying attention and using a device that makes some of the first-line defenses difficult.&nbsp;

Imagine you are waiting in line at an airport and need to fill out a form upon arrival that states you&rsquo;ve had no flu-like symptoms in the last 14 days. These are digital forms that can be accessed by scanning a QR code on a poster in the tunnel as you leave the airplane.&nbsp;

You are tired, in a rush, a little confused because you are landing in a new country, and possibly distracted by your children who are also tired and excited. This is the perfect opportunity for a criminal to utilize a QR code attack vector.&nbsp;

The criminals affix their sticker over top of the one on one of the posters, leading some people, unbeknownst to them, to land on a spoofed version of the government page, where they will then input sensitive data such as their name, address, <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/why-do-hackers-want-your-email-address" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">email address</a>, phone number, birth date, and passport number and expiration date.
<h2>Quishing examples</h2>
Here are some quishing examples:

<ol>
<li>
Microsoft authenticator app quishing
</li>
<li>
Railway station QR code scam
</li>
<li>
Restaurant app quishing scam
</li>
</ol>

<h3>Microsoft authenticator app quishing</h3>
In 2023, <a href="https://informationsecurity.wustl.edu/phishing-alert-credential-phishing-via-qr-code/" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Washington University in St. Louis</a> reported that some emails looking like Microsoft Authenticator app emails had been sent to students. If a student scanned the QR code, they would go to what looks like the university&rsquo;s login page. Then, any information inputted would be obtained by the cybercriminals who could then use it for nefarious purposes.&nbsp;

This is a common example of an online quishing attempt.
<h3>Railway station QR code scam</h3>

A woman in the UK lost &pound;13,000 pounds when she scanned a QR code at her local <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-tees-67335952" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">railway station</a>. The quishers covered up the legitimate QR code on a poster with one leading to a spoofed site. The victim then filled out information as normal, leading to cybercriminals stealing her funds.&nbsp;

This is a common QR sticker scam.&nbsp;
<h3>Restaurant app quishing scam</h3>

Some quishing scams are even <a href="https://cybersecuritynews.com/hackers-abuse-qr-codes/" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">more convoluted and long term</a>. Instead of simply sending a person to a spoofed page, they might try to get more information over a longer period. In one example, spoofed QR codes led victims to download what appeared to be a restaurant&rsquo;s app. Instead, it was a facsimile that asked for permission to use the phone&rsquo;s camera, microphone, and keyboard when in the app and otherwise.&nbsp;

The hackers then used the phone to spy on the user to gather information about their banking details so they could drain their accounts.&nbsp;
<h2>How do you prevent quishing attacks?&nbsp;</h2>

Foremost, everyone needs to be skeptical all the time. While it can be exhausting living your life with your guard up, the sad reality is that hackers are using more and more sophisticated means to steal your data. If you become complacent, then it is only a matter of time before someone tricks you.&nbsp;

This is especially true for businesses, which need to <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/creating-a-company-culture-for-security" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">create a culture of security</a> to keep employees and the company safe.

Hackers often target you when you least suspect it. If you see a QR code in a restaurant to fill out a survey for a free dessert, to view their menu, or to download their loyalty app, confirm that these are legitimate with an employee and check to make sure that the QR code isn&rsquo;t a sticker covering the real one.&nbsp;

When you scan a QR code, check the legitimacy of the web address. Similar to other phishing and vishing attacks, it&rsquo;s usually pretty easy to find discrepancies from the real site&rsquo;s URL. Scammers tend to create poor lookalike websites (e.g., chase.com versus chase-banking-online.com) because they are cheaper to purchase than ones that are more similar. If you aren&rsquo;t sure, use Google to navigate to the legitimate page.

Remember that you can and should safely ignore emails if they are unexpected. A Microsoft Authenticator email should only appear when you&rsquo;ve requested it immediately beforehand. If you didn&rsquo;t ask for the email, then it is fake, so don&rsquo;t click on any of the links or scan any QR codes therein!

Along with general training around being skeptical, businesses can equip their employees with the tools needed to enhance their cybersecurity. A password manager that <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/strong-password-generator" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">generates and stores a unique, strong, and random password</a> for each account is the first cybersecurity solution every business or individual should implement.&nbsp;
<h2>Use TeamPassword to prevent quishing attacks</h2>

TeamPassword stores all of your usernames and passwords securely. While spoofed websites might fool an individual who is distracted or not trained to look, it won&rsquo;t prompt your password manager to fill in your protected details.&nbsp;

Furthermore, by creating and securely storing unique, random, and strong passwords for each account, one mistake will never multiply to hackers having all of your credentials. Even if a quisher gains access to your coffee shop loyalty account, the worst they can do is steal your next free coffee and not your bank balance.&nbsp;

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

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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 ...

TeamPassword Blog

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