Improve your Security with a Password Manager
“Open sesame!” If only the passwords that were required of us every day could be so simple, right? But no, this simply enables cybercriminals. So, for the sake of our accounts and their security, we have to use multiple, complex passwords that meet today's best practices. However, passwords can sometimes be too secure. As in, preventing us from accessing our resources ourselves, because we can’t remember which password we used (or what it was). Fortunately, there is a method that can eliminate all of these issues - making use of a password manager. Let’s go over a few benefits of using one of the available password managers out there.
Less Pressure with Less to Remember
According to a study from 2007, the average computer user had around eight online accounts that required passwords. That was a long time ago. How much do you think that number has increased by now? 168
According to a 2024 survey by NordPass, the average person has 168 passwords for personal use and 87 for work use.
While human memory is capable of incredible things, it requires work to enable it to reach its full potential; and, is it really realistic to expect your employees to remember all of these passwords, putting in the time and adapting their memories each time a password is updated?
In this context, a password manager effectively serves as an extension of a user’s memory - much like the cloud serves as an extension of a business’ available resources. As long as a user with a password management tool can remember one password, to access the tool itself, they potentially have access to every password they could need.
Higher Security Standards
It is important to address why it is necessary that each account gets its own strong password. Consider the potential ramifications if someone used the same credentials for everything, and their security was undermined. In this scenario, the outside party now has access to everything. Not the ideal situation.
However, with a password manager, there is absolutely no reason not to use a different set of credentials for each account, as well as nothing to stop you from using the most complicated passwords you can come up with. Doing so prevents the risk of a breach escalating exponentially, allowing you greater control of your accounts.
Most password managers come with a random password generator that generates a password from eight to 100 characters in seconds that includes uppercase and lowercase letters, special characters, and numbers and then securely stores those passwords. Password length is a significant factor in its strength (as long as it’s random).
Password Auditing and Monitoring
Password managers often include tools to check for weak, reused, or compromised passwords. They may suggest improving passwords or notifying users if one of their passwords has been exposed in a data breach. Some password managers monitor the dark web for any signs of leaked email addresses or login credentials.
Password Sharing
It’s pretty unlikely that everyone in an organization will need the same levels of access. It’s much more likely that multiple people will share similar needs, like access to a particular, business-owned online account. Using a password manager, users can access certain credentials, based on their needs and responsibilities. Password managers offer the ability to securely share passwords with trusted contacts without revealing the actual password. This is useful for shared accounts like family or work-related resources.
Convenience
Password managers automatically fill in usernames and passwords on websites, saving users from having to remember or type them out manually. Also, many password managers sync across multiple devices (e.g., computers, smartphones, tablets), so they can securely access their accounts no matter where they are.
A password manager helps enhance businesses overall digital security, making it easier to manage and protect passwords, while reducing the risks associated with weak or reused passwords and potential data breaches. It’s a simple, yet effective way to stay safer online. For help implementing a password manager, or any other security solution, lean on Digital Sky Solutions! Reach out to us to learn more.
