See the best way to come up with a new username. We break down types of usernames and give you the best username ideas out there.

See the best way to come up with a new username. We break down types of usernames, why ...

How to Make a Good Username | Create a Unique and Secure Username

See the best way to come up with a new username. We break down types of usernames, why secure usernames are important, and how to create them effectively!

Imagine you sent a private letter, but on its way, a rogue mailman opened it, read it, maybe even changed a few words, and then resealed it and delivered it. You and the recipient would never know your conversation had been compromised.
That&rsquo;s exactly what a Man-in-the-Middle (MITM) attack is in the digital world. A cybercriminal secretly places themselves in the "middle" of your connection to an online service&mdash;like your bank, email, or a shopping site&mdash;to steal your passwords, credit card numbers, and personal data.
These attacks are sneaky and difficult to spot once they're happening. The good news? Preventing them is straightforward. This guide will walk you through five practical steps to secure your connection and keep your digital conversations private.
<h2 id="whatismitm">What is a Man-in-the-middle attack?</h2>
A Man-in-the-middle attack is a type of cyberattack where an attacker intercepts and alters the communication between two parties who believe they are directly communicating with each other. The attacker can eavesdrop on, modify, or redirect the data that is being exchanged, without the knowledge or consent of the original parties.
<img alt="undefined" width="638" height="638" src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/49dfYwKbTyycsYTZYmIu">
<h3>How Do Man-in-the-Middle Attacks Actually Happen?</h3>
Circumventing the complex code and jargon, here's how "MITM" attacks happen in everyday situations. The goal is always to trick you or your device into connecting to the attacker instead of the real destination.
Here are a few common ways they do it:
<ul>
<li>
"Evil Twin" Public Wi-Fi: An attacker sets up a fake Wi-Fi network with a convincing name, like "CoffeeShop_Free_WiFi" or "Airport_Guest." When you connect, all your internet traffic goes through their computer first, allowing them to see everything you do.
</li>
<li>
Phishing Emails or Links: You might get an email that looks like it's from your bank, asking you to "verify your account." The link leads to a fake website that looks identical to the real one. When you enter your password, the attacker captures it and then redirects you to the real site, making it seem like you just had a login error.
</li>
</ul>
In both cases, the attacker becomes an invisible eavesdropper on your connection.
<h2 id="howtopreventmitm">5 Practical Ways to Prevent MITM Attacks</h2>
The good news is that there are some effective ways to protect yourself from MITM attacks and ensure your online security and privacy. Here are some of the best practices that you should follow:
<h4>1. Secure Your Home and Personal Wi-Fi</h4>

Your home network is the foundation of your online security. Leaving it unprotected is like leaving your front door unlocked.
<ul>
<li>
What to do:
<ol start="1">
<li>
Ensure your Wi-Fi is protected with the latest security protocol, ideally WPA3 (or WPA2 at a minimum). You can find this setting in your router's administration pane. To access this setting, log in to your router's web interface by entering its IP address - often 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1 - into your browser's address bar and navigating to the administrative or advanced configuration menu.&nbsp;
</li>
<li>
Change your router's default administrator username and password. Cybercriminals have public lists of these default credentials.
</li>
</ol>
</li>
<li>
Why it works: Strong encryption scrambles all the data traveling over your Wi-Fi, making it gibberish to anyone trying to eavesdrop. A unique router password prevents an attacker from taking control of your entire network.
</li>
<li>
Pro-Tip: Make your router's password a long but memorable <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/what-is-a-passphrase" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">passphrase</a>.&nbsp;
</li>
</ul>
<h4>2. Use a VPN, Especially on Public Wi-Fi</h4>
The best security measure is to use your personal hotspot instead of public Wi-Fi. But if you are in a situation where you must connect to a public network, use a reputable VPN service.&nbsp;
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is your best friend when you're using a network you don't control.
<ul>
<li>
What to do: Before you start browsing at a hotel, airport, or coffee shop, turn on a reputable VPN service on your laptop or phone.
</li>
<li>
Why it works: A VPN creates a secure, encrypted "tunnel" for your internet traffic. Even if you're on a compromised network, the attacker in the middle can't see what you're doing. All they can see is scrambled, unreadable data. It's like sending your mail through a locked, armored truck instead of a transparent envelope.
</li>
<li>
Pro-Tip: Choose a well-known, paid VPN provider with a strict "no-logs" policy. This ensures they aren't keeping records of your online activity.
</li>
</ul>
<h4>3. Always Look for the Lock (HTTPS)</h4>

That little padlock icon next to the website address in your browser is more important than you think.
<ul>
<li>
What to do: Always check for a padlock icon and an address that starts with <code>https://</code> before entering any sensitive information on a website. If you see a "Not Secure" warning, do not proceed.
</li>
<li>
Why it works: The "S" in HTTPS stands for "Secure." It means your connection to that website is encrypted and authenticated. This verifies you're connected to the real server, not an imposter, and prevents anyone in the middle from reading the data you exchange.
</li>
<li>
Pro-Tip: Most modern browsers, like Chrome and Firefox, have a setting to automatically warn you or try to upgrade your connection to HTTPS. You can usually find it under <code>Settings &gt; Privacy and Security</code>.
</li>
</ul>
<img height="361" width="790" src="https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/z2-LxUfdGPH3Z6-dd9BZ8xyh9YhYinOEiYP_jGXgvbouPsCQcEH9mxyv2kArXk0320e6PASS-2DCqmlcKWs9zC7kR4X926Y5LsamSxy0x3_DMIJIhYwPIntt0DG-0ooMWLg5Y-koCivu">
<h4>4. Keep Your Devices and Apps Updated</h4>
Those constant "update available" notifications can be annoying, but they are crucial for your security.
<ul>
<li>
What to do: Enable automatic updates on your computer, phone, and web browser. Don't ignore manual update prompts for your apps.
</li>
<li>
Why it works: Hackers find and exploit security flaws, or "vulnerabilities," in outdated software to insert themselves into your connection. Software updates almost always include patches that fix these vulnerabilities, shutting the door on attackers.
</li>
<li>
Pro-Tip: If you have software you no longer use, uninstall it. An old, forgotten app is an unpatched security risk.
</li>
</ul>
<h4>5. Be Skeptical of Unsolicited Links and Pop-ups</h4>
Attackers often don't need to break through digital walls when they can just trick you into opening the door for them.
<ul>
<li>
What to do: Treat unexpected emails, text messages, and social media DMs with suspicion. Be especially wary of messages that create a sense of urgency, like "Your account has been suspended, click here IMMEDIATELY." Scam emails typically engender two feelings: Urgency (I have limited time to take action before something bad will happen) and Fear/anxiety (I've made a mistake, and am too embarrassed to tell anyone or ask for help).&nbsp;
</li>
<li>
Why it works: This is the human element of security. By pausing and thinking before you click, you can avoid the fake websites and malicious links that are the starting point for many MITM attacks.
</li>
<li>
Pro-Tip: If you get an urgent message from a service like your bank, close it. Then, open your browser and type the bank's website address in manually to log in and check for any real alerts.
</li>
</ul>
<h3><img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/ADcV5BQOTSiG0V1ez4NY" alt="undefined" width="675" height="844">&nbsp;</h3>
<h2 id="usingteampassword">Using TeamPassword to minimize MITM attacks</h2>
The primary goal of many MITM attacks is to steal your credentials. If an attacker gets the password to your email, they can reset the passwords for almost all your other accounts.
This is why password security is so critical. Using the same simple password everywhere is a recipe for disaster. But how can you possibly share passwords with your family or work team securely? Emailing them or writing them in a shared document is just as risky as using an unsecured Wi-Fi network.
<a href="https://teampassword.com/security" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">TeamPassword</a> is a secure password manager built for frictionless sharing. TeamPassword uses industry-standard AES 256-bit encryption to secure your passwords in a vault only you can unlock. Use unlimited password groups to distribute access. Turn on the one-time-share feature to securely share credentials - the link will be automatically destroyed after opening.&nbsp;
Password hygiene needs to be so easy that your team will actually do it. Otherwise, people revert to easy, insecure habits like spreadsheets and emails, which results in passwords not being accounted for.&nbsp;
Don't take our word for it. <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Try TeamPassword for free</a> to transform password security for your company.&nbsp;
<h2 id="faqs">FAQs</h2>
<h3>What tool can be used to prevent man in the middle attacks?</h3>
Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) create an encrypted tunnel between your device and a remote server.
This prevents eavesdroppers (including potential MITM attackers) from intercepting your data.&nbsp;However, keep in mind that not all VPNs are equally secure; choose reputable providers, and understand that your VPN provider&nbsp;is the man-in-the-middle.&nbsp;
The best tool against MITM attacks is a secure connection you can verify and control.&nbsp;
<h3>Does a VPN protect against man in the middle attacks?</h3>
Yes, if you trust the VPN.
Essentially, the VPN provider is the man in the middle. If the encryption on your tunnel is solid, then you should be protected against packet sniffing between your endpoint and the VPN provider.
<h4>When does a VPN&nbsp;not protect against MITM attacks?</h4>
VPNs do not improve your endpoint security. Therefore, VPNs do not help in the following situations:
<ul>
<li>
Non-encrypted connections
<ul>
<li>Non-encrypted connections are internet connections where data is transmitted without encryption, meaning the information is sent in plain text. This makes it vulnerable to interception by attackers, who can easily read or manipulate the data without any need for decryption.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>
DNS poisoning
<ul>
<li>DNS poisoning, also known as DNS spoofing, is a cyberattack where a hacker alters the domain name system (DNS) records to redirect users to malicious websites. This can trick users into providing sensitive information like login credentials or personal data, under the guise of legitimate sites.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>
Software vulnerabilities
<ul>
<li>Software vulnerabilities refer to weaknesses or flaws in a software program that can be exploited by cybercriminals to gain unauthorized access, install malware, or steal data. These vulnerabilities often arise from coding errors, outdated software, or unpatched security issues.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
If there are local issues with the WiFi, or malware on your device or browser already, then a VPN won't save you.&nbsp;
<h3>Can you detect a MITM attack?</h3>
When you use HTTP, you can't tell if someone is intercepting your data. But when you use HTTPS, your browser can detect and alert you about it. Exceptions are if your device or the server you're connecting to (or the certificate authority that vouches for it) is already hacked.
Detecting an MITM attack involves vigilance and understanding common signs. Here are some indicators:
<ol>
<li>Certificate Warnings:
<ul>
<li>When accessing a website, your browser checks its SSL/TLS certificate.</li>
<li>If the certificate is invalid or doesn&rsquo;t match the domain, you&rsquo;ll receive a warning.</li>
<li>Pay attention to such warnings, especially if you&rsquo;re not expecting them.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Unexpected Redirects:
<ul>
<li>If a website unexpectedly redirects you to a different domain, it could be a sign of tampering.</li>
<li>Verify the URL and ensure it matches the site you intended to visit.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Unusual Behavior:
<ul>
<li>Unexpected changes in website behavior (e.g., altered content, missing elements) may indicate an attack.</li>
<li>Compare with previous visits to identify anomalies.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Network Monitoring Tools:
<ul>
<li>Use network monitoring tools to inspect traffic.</li>
<li>Look for unusual patterns, unexpected connections, or suspicious IP addresses.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Check SSL/TLS Details:
<ul>
<li>Inspect SSL/TLS details (such as cipher suites) during a connection.</li>
<li>Mismatched or weak encryption can signal an issue.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>
Verify Public Keys:
<ul>
<li>When using public key cryptography (e.g., RSA), verify the authenticity of public keys.</li>
<li>Manually compare fingerprints or use trusted channels to share keys.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ol>
Prevention is the best defense against MITM attacks. MITM is intended to be transparent to the victim. Follow the steps in the article to prevent becoming a victim.&nbsp;
<script type="application/ld+json">
{
 "@context": "https://schema.org",
 "@type": "FAQPage",
 "mainEntity": [
 {
 "@type": "Question",
 "name": "What tool can be used to prevent man in the middle attacks?",
 "acceptedAnswer": {
 "@type": "Answer",
 "text": "Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) create an encrypted tunnel between your device and a remote server. This prevents eavesdroppers (including potential MITM attackers) from intercepting your data. However, keep in mind that not all VPNs are equally secure; choose reputable providers, and understand that your VPN provider is the man-in-the-middle. The best tool against MITM attacks is a secure connection you can verify and control."
 }
 },
 {
 "@type": "Question",
 "name": "Does a VPN protect against man in the middle?",
 "acceptedAnswer": {
 "@type": "Answer",
 "text": "Yes, if you trust the VPN. Essentially, the VPN provider is the man in the middle. If the encryption on your tunnel is solid, then you should be protected against packet sniffing between your endpoint and the VPN provider."
 }
 },
 {
 "@type": "Question",
 "name": "When does a VPN not protect against MITM attacks?",
 "acceptedAnswer": {
 "@type": "Answer",
 "text": "VPNs do not improve your endpoint security. Non-encrypted connections, DNS poisoning, software vulnerabilities. If there are local issues with the WiFi, or malware on your device or browser already, then a VPN won't save you."
 }
 },
 {
 "@type": "Question",
 "name": "Can you detect a MITM attack?",
 "acceptedAnswer": {
 "@type": "Answer",
 "text": "When you use HTTP, you can't tell if someone is intercepting your data. But when you use HTTPS, your browser can detect and alert you about it. Exceptions are if your device or the server you're connecting to (or the certificate authority that vouches for it) is already hacked. Detecting an MITM attack involves vigilance and understanding common signs. Here are some indicators: Certificate Warnings, Unexpected Redirects, Unusual Behavior, Network Monitoring Tools, Check SSL/TLS Details, Verify Public Keys."
 }
 }
 ]
}
</script>

Thwart Man-in-the-middle attacks with our comprehensive guide. We define common types of MITM attacks and provide actionable steps for prevention.

Thwart Man-in-the-middle attacks with our comprehensive guide. We define common types of MITM attacks and provide actionable steps ...

Practical Guide to Man-in-the-Middle Attacks (and How to Stop Them)

Running an autonomous AI agent with shell access on your machine is, as the developers say, "spicy." It is also rapidly becoming the new baseline for engineering productivity. OpenClaw, the viral open-source project formerly known as Clawdbot, is arguably the most compelling argument yet for the future of ambient computing. It sits quietly on your local machine, monitors your Slack and email, writes code, manages your calendar, and proactively solves problems while you sleep. But this shift from reactive chatbots to proactive, agentic AI introduces a terrifying new variable to your tech stack: to do its job, OpenClaw needs unrestricted, persistent access to your most sensitive credentials.
By default, OpenClaw's onboarding flow prioritizes frictionless adoption over basic operational security. It actively encourages users to paste their Anthropic Opus or OpenAI API keys directly into a terminal prompt, which then silently writes them in plaintext to a local `.env` file or an `openclaw.json` directory. If you are experimenting on a weekend, this is a minor oversight. If you are running this on a corporate Virtual Private Server (VPS), or sharing agents across a development team, you are sitting on a security timebomb.
The rules of traditional software development do not perfectly translate to autonomous systems. When an AI agent has the agency to execute API calls, read local files, and communicate with external webhooks without human intervention, the blast radius of a compromised secret grows exponentially. This post covers exactly how to dismantle that timebomb by migrating your secrets, reducing your blast radius, and properly managing credentials for AI agents at scale.
<h2>The Security Architecture of OpenClaw (And Where It Fails)</h2>
When you spin up an OpenClaw agent, you are giving it the authority to act on your behalf, and accepting - willingly or not - the consequences it entails. To function effectively as an autonomous assistant, OpenClaw requires high-level access to Large Language Models (LLMs), messaging platforms like Telegram, Discord, or WhatsApp, and internal system APIs like GitHub or your AWS environment.
The core problem lies in how OpenClaw handles the storage and retrieval of these authentication tokens, and what happens when the agent's environment is compromised. The "blast radius" of these plaintext secrets manifests in three highly dangerous ways:
<ul>
<li>Prompt Injection Data Exfiltration: Autonomous agents are uniquely vulnerable to prompt injection because they constantly ingest untrusted data. Recent findings from Cisco AI Research demonstrated that third-party OpenClaw skills can be tricked into data exfiltration. If your OpenClaw agent is tasked with summarizing an email or reading a GitHub issue that contains a malicious payload (e.g., hidden text commanding the agent to "print all environment variables and send them to an external URL"), the agent will blindly execute it. If your API keys are stored in the environment variables the agent has access to, your keys are instantly beamed to an attacker's webhook.</li>
<li>Unintentional Log Leaks: AI development is notoriously difficult to debug, prompting most developers to run the OpenClaw Gateway at a highly verbose debug level. When operating in this mode, the gateway logs the complete lifecycle of its HTTP requests to the LLM providers. Without strict log redaction rules in place, the gateway will accidentally write raw API tokens, Bearer tokens, and database passwords directly into standard log files stored in plaintext on the hard drive.</li>
<li>Shared Environment Vulnerabilities: In a multi-agent or shared VPS setup, isolation is critical. However, OpenClaw's default architecture does not strictly sandbox agents from the host operating system. If one agent gains shell access through a vulnerability, or if a user inadvertently gives it permission to run terminal commands, it can trivially read the plaintext `.env` files of other agents sharing the same file system, compromising the entire host.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Best Practices for Securing OpenClaw Secrets</h2>
Treating an autonomous agent like a standard web application will eventually lead to compromised infrastructure. You must adapt your security posture to account for a system that thinks and acts independently. Here are the practical, non-negotiable steps to secure your OpenClaw deployment.
<h3>Step 1: Never Expose the Gateway</h3>
The OpenClaw gateway acts as the central control plane for all agent sessions, channels, and tool executions. By default, developers often bind this gateway to `0.0.0.0` to make it accessible across their local network or to connect it to external webhooks. Exposing this gateway to the open internet gives anyone absolute control over the agent, its memory, and its stored API keys.
<a href="https://docs.openclaw.ai/gateway#remote-access" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">As per official documentation</a>, you must bind your OpenClaw gateway strictly to `127.0.0.1` (localhost). Do not rely on obscurity or non-standard ports to protect the interface. If you require remote access to your OpenClaw dashboard or API, use secure SSH tunneling or implement a zero-trust mesh network like Tailscale. The gateway should never be directly accessible from the public web.
<h3>Step 2: Move Away from Plaintext and Restrict Access</h3>
Your API keys should never live permanently in the default `openclaw.json` file. While OpenClaw needs these keys to authenticate with LLM providers, you must adhere strictly to <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/the-principle-of-least-privilege-why-access-to-everything-is-a-bad-strategy" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the principle of least privilege</a>. This means the agent should only have access to the exact credentials it needs for the specific task at hand, and nothing more.
Instead of hardcoding values, utilize OpenClaw's native <code>SecretRef</code> system to reference secrets by a unique ID rather than their actual value. Inject credentials into the runtime environment strictly at boot using a secure secret manager, and ensure the `.env` file permissions are aggressively locked down at the operating system level (e.g., using `chmod 600` so only the owner can read or write to the file). For production deployments, bypass `.env` files entirely and pipe credentials directly into the container from a secure vault at runtime.
<h3>Step 3: Audit Your Logs and Commits</h3>
Developers move fast, and the pressure to build new AI workflows moves faster. It is incredibly common for an engineer to accidentally commit a configuration file loaded with production LLM keys to a public or internal GitHub repository. To prevent this, you must implement automated guardrails.
Install pre-commit hooks using tools like <code>truffleHog</code> or <code>gitleaks</code> across your entire engineering team. These tools scan every line of code before it is committed, blocking the commit if it detects strings that match the entropy or formatting of an OpenAI, Anthropic, or AWS API key.
Furthermore, you must proactively <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/how-to-audit-passwords" target="_blank" rel="noopener">audit your logs</a> for leaked tokens. Make it a standard operational procedure to run a script against your local OpenClaw logs to ensure no secrets are bleeding into plaintext. A simple terminal command like <code>grep -r "sk-ant\|sk-\|Bearer" ~/.openclaw/logs/</code> can quickly reveal if your agent is writing sensitive authentication tokens to disk, allowing you to patch the logging configuration immediately.
<h2>The Lifecycle of an AI Agent Key: Rotation and Revocation</h2>
One of the most persistent vulnerabilities in AI development is credential stagnation. Developers frequently spin up an OpenClaw agent, feed it a high-limit corporate OpenAI key, and forget about it. When dealing with autonomous systems capable of executing thousands of API calls a minute, static credentials are a massive financial and security liability. You need a strict protocol for rotating keys without breaking the AI's ongoing workflows.
Do not simply delete a key and hope the system recovers. Follow this clean, zero-downtime rotation sequence:
<ol>
<li>Generation: Generate a new, separate API key in the LLM provider&rsquo;s dashboard. Do not modify the existing key yet.</li>
<li>Staging: Update the secure environment variable in your vault or deployment pipeline with the new key.</li>
<li>Restart and Drain: Restart the OpenClaw Gateway to force it to pick up the new environment variables. Ensure any long-running agent tasks are allowed to drain and complete before forcing the restart.</li>
<li>Verification: Execute a test prompt through the agent to ensure it is successfully authenticating with the new key and that no permissions are missing.</li>
<li>Revocation: Only after verifying the new connection should you return to the provider's dashboard and permanently revoke the old key.</li>
</ol>
This process ensures that your autonomous agents never experience authentication failures, which can cause them to crash or enter unpredictable error loops.
<h2>How TeamPassword fits into solving the shared AI agent problem</h2>
When multiple developers are building custom OpenClaw skills, deploying test agents, and pushing code to production, tracking who has access to which API keys becomes impossible without the right tool. Relying on shared .env files sent over Slack or plaintext wikis is a massive security violation that will eventually result in a breach.
To safely scale autonomous AI workflows, you need a dedicated credential manager to act as the single, immutable source of truth for your entire AI infrastructure. You need to <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/how-to-manage-passwords" target="_blank" rel="noopener">manage passwords</a> and API keys using encrypted, centralized vaults where access can be tightly controlled and monitored.
By utilizing one of the a shared vault like <a href="https://teampassword.com" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">TeamPassword</a>, you instantly eliminate the "shadow AI" problem. You can securely store all Telegram bot tokens, OpenAI/Anthropic API keys, database credentials, and server passwords in one highly secure environment.
More importantly, TeamPassword allows you to enforce strict <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/role-based-access-control-rbac-guide" target="_blank" rel="noopener">role-based access control (RBAC)</a>. You can grant junior developers and contractors access to heavily rate-limited "dev" agent keys, while strictly restricting access to production-level LLM keys that incur significant real-world costs. If a developer leaves the company, or if an OpenClaw instance is compromised by a malicious prompt injection, you don't have to guess which systems are vulnerable. You can instantly see which keys are shared with that specific team member or project, and revoke them across the entire organization with a single click.
<h2>Conclusion</h2>
OpenClaw represents a massive leap forward in how we interact with software. It is a tireless force multiplier that can handle your most tedious digital tasks, allowing human engineers to focus on high-level architecture. But the exact autonomy that makes it powerful makes it a prime target for credential theft. When a system acts on its own, its access must be guarded flawlessly.
Do not let your company's most sensitive API keys live in a plaintext configuration file on a developer's workstation. Lock down your gateway, enforce strict secret rotation lifecycles, and use a robust, team-oriented credential manager to protect the keys to your kingdom. The future of software is autonomous, but your security strategy must remain firmly in your control.

A practical guide to securing OpenClaw API keys. Learn to bind your gateway to localhost, rotate LLM secrets safely, and manage team access with TeamPassword.

A practical guide to securing OpenClaw API keys. Learn to bind your gateway to localhost, rotate LLM secrets ...

Securing OpenClaw: API Key and Secret Management for Autonomous AI

Standard password tools fail at enterprise scale. Learn how to choose a password manager for security, compliance (SOC 2), and control. See our top 5 picks.

Standard password tools fail at enterprise scale. Learn how to choose a password manager for security, compliance (SOC ...

Securing Your Business with an Enterprise Password Vault

The 5 Best Enterprise Password Vaults (2026 Comparison)

Smishing is the latest form of phishing. Scam SMS text messages are sent in hopes users will click on malicious links and then divulge data.

Smishing is the latest form of phishing. Scam SMS text messages are sent out in hopes users will ...

Smishing: What you need to know to keep yourself safe

Smishing is the latest form of phishing. Scam SMS text messages are sent out in hopes users will click on malicious links and then divulge sensitive data.

Smishing: What you need to know to keep yourself safe in 2026

Learn what to do if you forgot your Facebook password and how to use TeamPassword to make sure you never forget a password again.

Learn what to do if you forgot your Facebook password and how to use TeamPassword to make sure ...

What To Do If You Forgot Your Old Facebook Login

Have you tried to log in to WordPress.com only to find you can't remember your password?
You're not alone. With so many different logins and passwords to remember, it's not easy to keep track of everything! Remembering WordPress passwords can get even more tricky for businesses managing multiple websites and logins.
If you can't log in to your WordPress account, don't fret. It's easy to reset! Follow along below for an easy step-by-step guide to reset your WordPress password.
Critical Clarification:&nbsp;This article is about WordPress.com. WordPress.org is the self-hosted software where you fully control your website, meaning you must reset your password directly through your own domain's admin page or your web hosting provider's database. In contrast, WordPress.com and other premium products like WordPress VIP are managed hosting services, meaning your login is tied to a centralized network and relies on their specific account recovery tools, such as magic links or dedicated support.
<h2 class="p3">Resetting Your WordPress Password From the Login Screen</h2>
The easiest way to reset your WordPress password is through the login screen. You'll need to use this login method if you cannot access your account.
1. Starting on the WordPress login page, you'll find a "lost your password" button beneath the login box.
2. Enter the email address associated with your WordPress account and select "Lost your password?"
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/2BQ1x64SE61YRvA6C3NQ" alt="undefined" width="675" height="476">
3. Check your email for an email from WordPress. When you open this email, you'll find a confirmation email to click through, which will open up a new tab.
&nbsp;<img alt="WordPress Password Reset Instructions" width="440" height="252" src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/cFKL0YVcQyqYLC9UidtK">
4. Enter your new desired password or choose one of the user-generated passwords. Select "Reset Password" to confirm.
<img alt="WordPress new password generator" width="308" height="480" src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/IblQf3QqQeq5syKzi2Vd">
 
5. Your password has been reset. You can now log in with the new WordPress password you've created.
<h2 class="p3">Resetting Your Password From the Admin Panel</h2>
You may want to reset your password even if you haven't forgotten it. The easiest way to reset your WordPress password in this scenario is through the admin panel, using the following steps:
<ol>
<li>Open your WordPress dashboard/admin panel.</li>
<li>Click your email/username in the top right and click "My WordPress.com Account"</li>
<li>Select Security from the panel on the left<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/DC1ya9mRKWBhvPKseTRY" alt="undefined" width="285" height="229"></li>
<li>Here you can create a password if you haven't done so, reset your password, set up two-factor authentication, and more. <img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/4NDPeVVQayfZqSxcDdTQ" alt="undefined" width="496" height="117"></li>
</ol>

<h2 class="p3">Resetting Your Password Through Two-Factor Authentication&nbsp;</h2>
Adding two-step authentication is a great idea to help protect your WordPress account. Furthermore, two-step authentication helps you reset your password. If you've added the <a href="https://wordpress.com/support/security/two-step-authentication/" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">two-step authentication</a> to your account in the past, you'll have the option to reset your WordPress account using your mobile phone number.
<img alt="WordPress SMS Password Reset Example" width="443" height="428" src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/7HQWaYC6To249SXFSpiz">
1. After you've selected SMS password reset, look for a text message code sent to your phone (like the one pictured above in the example).
2. Enter the code in the text message into the password reset box.
3. If the code is entered correctly, you'll be prompted to create a new password.
<h2 class="p3">Resetting Your Password Through phpMyAdmin</h2>
While the two methods of resetting your password above are often the easiest, a few scenarios require different approaches. If you do not have access to the email you used to create your WordPress account, you'll need to reset your password using phpMyAdmin. This method is also used if you aren't receiving the "reset my password" email from WordPress (due to email spam settings). Resetting your password through phpMyAdmin can get tricky, so check with your domain provider on how to access your database.
<h2 class="p3">Using the WordPress Admin to Reset Another User&rsquo;s Password</h2>
If you're managing a team of WordPress users, you can also assist them in resetting their passwords (as long as you are an administrator user). Here's how:
1. Enter the WordPress dashboard. On the left-hand side, select "Users."
2. Find the person listed whose password you wish to reset. Select "Edit" underneath their name.
<img alt="WordPress Account Management New Password" width="820" height="236" src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/u8nd7WSTDaLuulFEzjuD">
3. Scroll down to account management to find the reset password area.
4. Either use the generated password or erase it and enter your desired password.
 
5. Click "Update User" to change the user's password. You're all set!
Avoid the Hassle by Using a Password Manager
While the WordPress password reset process is quite simple, repeatedly resetting your passwords can still be frustrating. Using a password manager such as <a href="https://teampassword.com/" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">TeamPassword</a> can help eliminate this hassle. TeamPassword is the fastest, easiest, and most secure way to store all your passwords in one place. Along with your WordPress password, save all of your most-used passwords for easy access at any time.
Sharing passwords amongst your team? TeamPassword allows you and your team to share login details and passwords across the entire team with ease. No longer will anyone on your team wonder, "What's the new password for 'X'?" or ask, "Who has the password for 'Y'?"
Create, Store, and Share Logins in One Place
Tired of resetting your passwords? We know it's hard to remember so many logins across many websites. It's even more frustrating to go through the process of resetting your passwords every time you've forgotten! Instead, use <a href="https://teampassword.com/" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">TeamPassword</a> to create, store, and share logins with your team.
Have questions about using TeamPassword? <a href="https://teampassword.com/support" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Contact us</a> via email or chat. We're happy to assist.

Can't remember your WordPress password? Don't fret! Use this easy step-by-step guide to reset your WordPress password.

How to Reset a WordPress Password

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

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

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

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

Top 5 Dangerous Ways to Store Your Passwords

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.

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

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

TeamPassword Blog

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

Most popular articles

Password Management

December 13, 2024 ∙ 13 min read

How to Make a Good Username | Create a Unique and Secure Username

Top 5 Dangerous Ways to Store Your Passwords

Have I Been Hacked? How to Know for Sure.

What is password encryption and how does it work?

Cybersecurity

April 7, 2026 ∙ 12 min read

Practical Guide to Man-in-the-Middle Attacks (and How to Stop Them)

Cybersecurity

April 6, 2026 ∙ 9 min read

Securing OpenClaw: API Key and Secret Management for Autonomous AI

Business

April 6, 2026 ∙ 13 min read

The 5 Best Enterprise Password Vaults (2026 Comparison)

Cybersecurity

April 5, 2026 ∙ 9 min read

Smishing: What you need to know to keep yourself safe in 2026

Password Management

April 5, 2026 ∙ 13 min read

What To Do If You Forgot Your Old Facebook Login

Product Information

April 3, 2026 ∙ 5 min read

How to Reset a WordPress Password

The Password Manager for Teams

Product

Support

Channels

Legal