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

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

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

Have I Been Hacked? How to Know for Sure.

Cybersecurity is a vital issue for any organization, but especially for nonprofits. Nonprofits often handle sensitive data such as donor information, volunteer records, financial transactions etc. They rely on online platforms and tools to communicate, collaborate, and fundraise. These factors make them attractive targets for cybercriminals who want to steal data, extort money, or disrupt operations.
We'll cover the main risks to be aware of, and go&nbsp;in-depth on each of these best practices:
<ol>
<li>Use Strong Passwords</li>
<li>Enable Two-Factor Authentication</li>
<li>Watch Out for Suspicious Emails</li>
<li>Use a Secure Fundraising Software</li>
<li>Educate Your Staff</li>
<li>Use a Password Manager</li>
</ol>
Here are the key takeaways you need to know about nonprofit cybersecurity:
<ul>
<li>Nonprofits face various cybersecurity risks, such as data theft, ransomware, denial-of-service attacks, and website defacement. These risks can have serious consequences for their operations, reputation, funding, and beneficiaries.</li>
<li>Nonprofits can protect themselves by following cybersecurity best practices, such as using strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, watching out for suspicious emails, using a secure fundraising software, implementing access management, and educating their staff.</li>
<li>Password managers are a tool with one of the best cost-benefit ratios for nonprofits. They shore up security and save time.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
[Table of Contents]
<ul>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><a href="#commoncybersecurityrisks" rel="follow">Common Cybersecurity Risks for Nonprofits</a></li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><a href="#bestpractices" rel="follow">Cybersecurity for Nonprofits: Best Practices to Follow</a></li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><a href="#howteampasswordcanhelp" rel="follow">How TeamPassword Can Help You Secure Your Nonprofit</a></li>
</ul>
<h2 id="commoncybersecurityrisks">Common Cybersecurity Risks for Nonprofits</h2>
Nonprofits face many of the same cybersecurity risks as any other organization, but they may have fewer resources and expertise to deal with them. Some of the most common risks include:
<ul>
<li>Data theft: Cybercriminals may try to access your data, either by hacking into your systems or by tricking you into giving them your credentials. They may use this data for identity theft, fraud, blackmail, or selling it on the dark web.</li>
<li>Ransomware: Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts your files and demands a ransom to unlock them. If you don&rsquo;t pay, you may lose your data permanently. Ransomware can affect your computers, servers, cloud storage, or even your website.</li>
<li>Denial-of-service attacks: A denial-of-service attack is when a cybercriminal floods your website or network with traffic or requests, making it slow or unavailable. This can affect your online presence, reputation, and ability to serve your beneficiaries.</li>
<li>Website defacement: Website defacement is when a cybercriminal alters your website&rsquo;s appearance or content, usually with malicious or offensive messages. This can damage your credibility and trust with your audience.</li>
</ul>
These risks are even more critical for nonprofits that must secure their internal data and that of donors and volunteers. If you suffer a data breach or a cyberattack, you may face legal liability, regulatory fines, reputational damage, loss of funding, and loss of trust. You may also jeopardize the safety and privacy of the people you serve.
That&rsquo;s why it&rsquo;s essential to take cybersecurity seriously and implement measures to prevent and <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/5-cybersecurity-mistakes-every-boss-should-be-aware-of-in-2023" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">mitigate these risks</a>. Here are some best practices to follow.
<h2 id="bestpractices">Cybersecurity for Nonprofits: Best Practices to Follow</h2>
Cybersecurity may seem daunting or complex, but it <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/10-easy-cybersecurity-strategies-for-small-businesses" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">doesn&rsquo;t have to be</a>. There are some simple and effective steps you can take to improve your security posture and reduce your exposure to cyberthreats. Here are some of them:
<h3>Use Strong Passwords</h3>
Passwords are the first line of defense for your online accounts and devices. They should be long, complex, unique, and hard to guess. A strong password should include a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, symbols, and spaces. It should also avoid common words, names, dates, or phrases.
For example, a weak password would be something like&nbsp;<code>password123</code>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<code>nonprofit2023</code>. A strong password would be something like&nbsp;<code>!4nPr0f!t$3cur!ty@2023</code>.
<h3>Enable Two-Factor Authentication</h3>
Two-factor authentication (2FA) is an extra layer of security that requires you to enter a code or use a device in addition to your password when logging in to an account. This way, even if someone steals or guesses your password, they won&rsquo;t be able to access your account without the second factor.
You should enable 2FA for all your online accounts that support it, especially those that handle sensitive data or transactions. You can use various methods for 2FA, such as SMS codes, email codes, authenticator apps, or hardware tokens.
<h3>Watch Out for Suspicious Emails</h3>
Email is one of the most common ways that cybercriminals try to trick you into giving them your data or access to your systems. They may send you emails that look legitimate but contain malicious links or attachments that can infect your device with malware or direct you to fake websites that ask for your credentials.
These emails are known as phishing scams and they can be very convincing. They may use logos, names, addresses, or other details that mimic those of legitimate organizations or people you know. They may also create a sense of urgency or curiosity to make you click on their links or attachments.
To avoid falling victim to phishing scams, you should always check the sender&rsquo;s email address carefully and look for any spelling or grammar errors in the message. You should also hover over any links before clicking on them and see if they match the expected destination. If you&rsquo;re not sure about an email&rsquo;s authenticity or legitimacy, don&rsquo;t open it or reply to it. Instead, contact the sender directly using another channel or report it as spam.
If you do get breached, read our guide on the subject <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/cybersecurity-complete-guide" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">here</a>.&nbsp;
<h3>Use Secure Fundraising Software</h3>
Fundraising is a core activity for most nonprofits, and it often involves collecting and processing personal and financial data from donors. This data needs to be protected from unauthorized access, use, or disclosure.
That&rsquo;s why you should use a secure fundraising software that offers features such as encryption, compliance, backup, and audit. Encryption is the process of transforming data into an unreadable format that can only be decrypted with a key. Compliance means that the software follows the relevant laws and regulations for data protection, such as GDPR or PCI DSS. Backup means that the software creates copies of your data and stores them in a safe location in case of loss or damage. Audit means that the software keeps track of who accesses or modifies your data and when.
By using a secure fundraising software, you can ensure that your donor data is safe and that you meet your legal and ethical obligations.
<h3>Implement Access Management</h3>
Access management is the process of controlling who has access to what data, apps, software, and services within your organization. It helps you prevent unauthorized or unnecessary access to your resources and reduce the risk of data leakage or misuse.
To implement access management, you should follow the principle of least privilege, which means that you should only grant access to the minimum amount of resources that each user needs to perform their role. You should also regularly review and update your access policies and permissions, and revoke access from users who no longer need it or who leave your organization.
Access management also involves using tools such as single sign-on (SSO) and password managers. SSO is a feature that allows users to log in to multiple apps or services with one set of credentials, instead of having to remember and enter different passwords for each one. Password managers are tools that store and manage your passwords securely, so you don&rsquo;t have to remember them or write them down.
<h3>Educate Your Staff</h3>
One of the most important aspects of cybersecurity is human behavior. Your staff are the ones who use your systems and devices, and they can either be your greatest asset or your weakest link when it comes to security.
That&rsquo;s why you should educate your staff on security best practices and how to recognize and avoid common threats. You should also create a security culture within your organization, where security is everyone&rsquo;s responsibility and not just an IT issue.
You can use various methods to educate your staff, such as training sessions, webinars, newsletters, quizzes, or simulations. <a href="https://www.wizer-training.com/" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Wizer Training</a> is one such tool. You should also provide them with clear guidelines and policies on how to handle data, devices, passwords, emails, and incidents.
<h3>Use a Password Manager</h3>
As we mentioned earlier, passwords are essential for securing your online accounts and devices. However, managing passwords can be challenging and time-consuming. You may have dozens or hundreds of passwords to remember and enter for different apps or services. You may also have to change them frequently or share them with others.
That&rsquo;s where a password manager can help you. A password manager is a tool that stores and manages your passwords securely, so you don&rsquo;t have to remember them or write them down. It also helps you create strong passwords for each account and autofill them when you log in.
TeamPassword is a password manager <a href="https://teampassword.com/features" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">designed specifically for teams and businesses</a>. It allows you to store and share passwords with your colleagues easily and safely. It can autofill to the hundreds of websites you use everyday with its extension, available for all major browsers.
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/0gCOt5oQBCE1vxckmRZC" alt="TP extension in action GIF (video) (1..." width="859" height="483">
<h2 id="howteampasswordcanhelp">How TeamPassword Can Help You Secure Your Nonprofit</h2>
TeamPassword is a frictionless, easy-to-use password manager with discounted pricing for nonprofits. Here are some of the key features and benefits of TeamPassword:
<ul>
<li>Security: TeamPassword uses industry-standard encryption to protect your passwords and data. It also offers enforceable 2FA, SSO, activity logs, admin and member permission levels, and more.</li>
<li>Simplicity: TeamPassword is easy to use and set up. You can create groups for different teams or projects and add users with a few clicks. You can also import or export passwords from other sources or formats.</li>
<li>Integration: Use browser extensions and mobile apps to access your passwords from anywhere.</li>
<li>Support: TeamPassword offers live support Monday through Friday. You can contact us anytime via email or chat if you have any questions or issues. We also offer discounts for nonprofits.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
TeamPassword can help you secure your nonprofit by making password management easy, fast, and convenient. You can save time and hassle by storing all your passwords in one place and accessing them with one click. You can also improve collaboration by sharing passwords with your team members securely and efficiently.
If you want to learn more about TeamPassword&rsquo;s features and benefits, check out our website&nbsp;<a h="ID=SERP,5042.1" target="_blank" href="https://teampassword.com/features" rel="noopener">here</a>. If you want to see how TeamPassword works in action, <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">sign up for a free trial</a>.

Cybersecurity is critical for all organizations, including nonprofits. Learn more in this guide about cybersecurity for nonprofits.

Cybersecurity for Nonprofits: Keeping Your Nonprofit Secure

A password generator is a tool that generates a random combination of numbers, letters, and symbols to be used as a password. Password generators let you exclude or include certain characters, allowing you to customize the password complexity to your needs.&nbsp;
Password generators are a fast and convenient way to generate secure passwords. Password managers typically include built-in password generators so you can create a secure password on the fly when signing up for a new account (or updating an old one).&nbsp;
Some password generators allow you to create <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/what-is-a-passphrase" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">passphrases</a>, which are passwords that use words instead of fully random characters. Passphrases are easier to remember while still being very secure, assuming they're long enough.&nbsp;
<h2>Why should I Use a Password Generator?</h2>
The most common way for cybercriminals to hack accounts is guessing the password. They use programs that can try hundreds of passwords per second. Simple, common passwords are breached almost instantly.
One part of the solution is to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.teampassword.com/blog/tips-and-tricks-to-create-a-strong-password" target="_blank" rel="follow noopener">use strong passwords</a> to protect your information (you should also enable <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/2fa-vs-mfa" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">MFA</a>). Password generators help you create strong passwords with a click and store them in a password manager.&nbsp;
<h3>How do password generators work?</h3>

<h3>What Makes a Great Password Generator?</h3>
A great password generator:
<ul>
<li>Creates secure passwords</li>
<li>Allows you to customize complexity and length</li>
<li>Tells you how secure your passwords are</li>
</ul>
You don't need to pay for a password generator. I recommend our&nbsp;<a href="https://teampassword.com/password-generator" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">free password generator</a>, which lets you customize complexity and length. With the strength checker, you can test passwords and passphrases to make sure they're secure.
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/JE5qj71EQeOBSisESmFu" alt="undefined" width="518" height="365">
Too short and predictable!
<h3>Do you need a password generator to create secure passwords?</h3>
You are not required to use a password generator to create secure passwords. In theory, you could mash the keyboard to get a random mix of letters, numbers, and symbols; chances are accidentally activate a shortcut.
If you need to remember the password, I recommend creating a <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/how-to-build-a-passphrase#:~:text=How%20to%20Create%20a%20Strong%20Passphrase" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">passphrase that is unique to you</a>. Then, test it using the password generator strength test.&nbsp;
Password generators are typically used in combination with a manager to make creating and storing password convenient and secure.&nbsp;
You should use a password generator if:
<ul>
<li>You are creating passwords for tens or hundreds of accounts</li>
<li>You are using a password manager with a built-in password generator</li>
<li>Security is of paramount concern, and you need 20+ character, complex passwords</li>
</ul>
You might&nbsp;not want to use a password generator if:
<ul>
<li>You are creating a passphrase to commit to memory that is personal to you</li>
</ul>
This can be done by combining things such as a license plate number, your wedding anniversary date, your favorite movie and the author of your favorite book. Mix in a few special characters, and you'll easily have a 30+ character password that will takes centuries to crack with today's technology.
<h3>How to use a password generator</h3>
Using a password generator is easy.&nbsp;
If your password manager has a built-in generator, just click 'generate' and set the parameters to your liking.&nbsp;
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/eVkl3C8oQG2fZrQ1RTVd" alt="undefined" width="540" height="540">
With online password managers, copy the generated password and paste it into the account you're creating.&nbsp;
Important:&nbsp;when copy-pasting passwords, clear your clipboard afterward. Instructions for Windows can be found <a href="https://www.windowscentral.com/how-clear-clipboard-data-shortcut-windows-10" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">here</a>. If clipboard history is off, you can copy something else to clear the password from your clipboard. The same applies to Macs.&nbsp;
<h3>Never forget a password with TeamPassword</h3>
Passwords are the first defense mechanism from online criminals trying to access your sensitive data. Always aim at making things difficult for them by using strong, unique passwords.
<a target="_blank" rel="follow noopener" href="https://teampassword.com/features">TeamPassword</a> was designed for businesses who share passwords. It has a built-in password generator - no excuses for using weak passwords! It's one of the easiest password managers to use, while offering industry-standard AES 256-bit vault encryption (see our security page <a target="_blank" rel="follow noopener" href="https://teampassword.com/security">here</a>).&nbsp;
We offer a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="follow noopener" href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup">14-day free trial</a>.&nbsp;

Find out how to keep your passwords long, random, unique, and un-hackable.

The most prevalent way hackers can break through computers is by guessing your password. Use of simple and ...

What is a Password Generator and Should I Use One

The most prevalent way hackers can break through computers is by guessing your password. Use of simple and common passwords creates an opportunity for hackers to get access to your electronic devices. Since no one would wish to have their personal information stolen, use strong passwords to protect your information.

What is a Password Generator?

Utility companies, such as those that provide electricity, natural gas, and water, are increasingly vulnerable to cyberattacks. According to&nbsp;<a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://www.cisco.com/c/dam/en_us/solutions/industries/docs/energy/security-benchmark-study-utilities.pdf" href="https://www.cisco.com/c/dam/en_us/solutions/industries/docs/energy/security-benchmark-study-utilities.pdf">recent data</a> compiled by Cisco, 73% of IT security professionals who work in utilities say they've experienced a public security breach. This is a startling percentage when compared to the 55% in other industries.
Organizations within the utility sector must improve their cybersecurity posture to prevent dangerous threats. After all, threats are not only harmful to business operations but also potentially detrimental to the communities that rely on utility services.
In this cybersecurity for utilities guide, we'll discuss the common threats these companies are up against, the unique challenges they face when adopting cybersecurity principles, and the best practices required to mitigate risks.
First, here are the five key things to understand about cybersecurity for utilities:
<ul>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1">The utility sector includes companies that supply many utilities, from water to natural gas. These companies also manage the delivery of these services and the utility infrastructure.</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1">There are many cyber threats facing utility companies, including hacking, phishing, ransomware, and other risks.</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1">Utility companies face many challenges when improving their security posture, including the use of legacy systems, the need to comply with ever-evolving standards, and the cost of security initiatives.</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1">These companies can improve their security posture quickly by implementing threat detection, improving their password hygiene, securing their physical infrastructure, and following other best practices.</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1">TeamPassword can help utility companies protect their critical data through secure password management and generation.</li>
</ul>
<h3>[Table of Contents]</h3>
<ul>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><a href="#understandingutilities" rel="follow">Understanding the Utilities Sector &amp; Its Technology</a></li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><a href="#commoncyberthreats" rel="follow">Common Cyber Threats Facing Utility Companies</a></li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><a href="#challenges&amp;roadblocks" rel="follow">Cybersecurity for Utilities: Challenges &amp; Roadblocks</a></li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><a href="#7bestpractices" rel="follow">Cybersecurity for Utilities: 7 Best Practices</a></li>
</ul>
<h2 id="understandingutilities">Understanding the Utilities Sector &amp; Its Technology</h2>
The utilities sector includes a wide range of companies that supply various types of utilities. Some examples include electricity, water, natural gas, and sewage. These companies must also manage the delivery of these public services and the infrastructure required to provide them.
Managing utilities is complex. These companies must provide services such as electricity and water to an ever-growing population. At the same time, they must comply with many government regulations and heed the call to provide utilities in a way that supports the environment. Plus, they must do all of this while keeping a close eye on consumer costs and overall supply.
Luckily, the critical responsibilities of a utility company are being simplified through the support of modern technology. For example, using data analytics, utility companies can spot potential issues within the grid before outages occur, streamlining operations and saving costs.
Another example is found in the "<a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://www.smartgrid.gov/the_smart_grid/smart_grid.html" href="https://www.smartgrid.gov/the_smart_grid/smart_grid.html">smart grid</a>," which is inspiring electricity providers to adopt advanced technology such as digital meters that automatically report outages and usage. As a result, providers can boost the efficiency of utility delivery, lower costs for consumers, and more.
<h2 id="commoncyberthreats">Common Cyber Threats Facing Utility Companies</h2>
It's true that modern technology is improving the way utility companies deliver services and how consumers experience them. However, each new tech tool or solution implemented extends the attack surface, leaving utility companies vulnerable.
Some of the most common cyber threats facing utility companies include:
<ul>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1">Hacking: According to the Threat Intelligence Index <a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://securityintelligence.com/articles/todays-biggest-threats-against-the-energy-grid/" href="https://securityintelligence.com/articles/todays-biggest-threats-against-the-energy-grid/">report</a>, 40% of cyber attacks were cybercriminals trying to exploit or hack a public-facing application. These applications often include websites or databases.</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1">Phishing: Another common threat is <a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://teampassword.com/blog/10-cyberattacks-recently-used-by-hackers-2023" href="https://teampassword.com/blog/10-cyberattacks-recently-used-by-hackers-2023">phishing</a>. Using this method, cybercriminals send emails pretending to be from reputable companies or authorities. These emails ask for personal information, such as passwords, that can help attackers gain access to your systems.</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1">Ransomware: Using ransomware, attackers will use malicious software to block access to your critical computer systems until you pay a ransom.</li>
</ul>
Beyond these risks, utility companies are also susceptible to physical infrastructure attacks, data theft, and other threats. According to IBM's <a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://www.ibm.com/downloads/cas/DB4GL8YM?_ga=2.218868441.1301765225.1695318790-485307925.1692896475&amp;_gl=1*1acfkmr*_ga*NDg1MzA3OTI1LjE2OTI4OTY0NzU.*_ga_FYECCCS21D*MTY5NTMxODc4OS4yLjEuMTY5NTMxOTc1MC4wLjAuMA.." href="https://www.ibm.com/downloads/cas/DB4GL8YM?_ga=2.218868441.1301765225.1695318790-485307925.1692896475&amp;_gl=1*1acfkmr*_ga*NDg1MzA3OTI1LjE2OTI4OTY0NzU.*_ga_FYECCCS21D*MTY5NTMxODc4OS4yLjEuMTY5NTMxOTc1MC4wLjAuMA..">Security X-Force Threat Index</a>, energy firms were at the top of the victim list for cyber crimes in 2022, making up 20% of attacks.
For example, in 2022, Colorado Springs Utilities was a victim of <a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://www.cpr.org/2022/07/14/colorado-springs-utilities-customer-personal-information-st/" href="https://www.cpr.org/2022/07/14/colorado-springs-utilities-customer-personal-information-st/">data theft</a> when criminals gained access to the personal information of 200,000 customers. And in Europe, the Amsterdam-Rotterdam-Antwerp (ARA) <a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://www.argusmedia.com/en/news/2297896-cyberattack-causing-problems-at-ara-storage-terminals" href="https://www.argusmedia.com/en/news/2297896-cyberattack-causing-problems-at-ara-storage-terminals">refining hub</a> experienced an attack on six oil storage terminals that affected the loading and unloading of oil.
<h2 id="challenges&amp;roadblocks">Cybersecurity for Utilities: Challenges &amp; Roadblocks</h2>
Cybersecurity for utilities is different when compared to typical IT security. When attempting to improve their cybersecurity posture, it's common for utility companies to face roadblocks. To start, many companies are still using legacy systems that are difficult to secure and fail to play well with more modern security methods.
Another challenge is the need to comply with ever-evolving standards, such as those set forth by the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (<a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://www.nerc.com/pa/Stand/Pages/default.aspx" href="https://www.nerc.com/pa/Stand/Pages/default.aspx">NERC</a>). Compliance can be difficult, especially as utility companies work to implement new technology for which security guidelines may not exist just yet.
Of course, cost is a consistent challenge for those providing power and other services. Since energy rates are heavily regulated, utility companies must be careful when budgeting for any improvements, including those surrounding security.
<h2 id="7bestpractices">Cybersecurity for Utilities: 7 Best Practices</h2>
Even with the above challenges, there are steps you can take to improve your company's security posture. These steps include:
<ol>
<li data-gc-list-style="ordered" data-gc-list-depth="1">Implementing threat detection.</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="ordered" data-gc-list-depth="1">Securing your physical utility infrastructure.</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="ordered" data-gc-list-depth="1">Performing regular system security audits.</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="ordered" data-gc-list-depth="1">Training staff on security protocols.</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="ordered" data-gc-list-depth="1">Implementing data backups and recovery plans.</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="ordered" data-gc-list-depth="1">Improving password use and management.</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="ordered" data-gc-list-depth="1">Using a security framework as a guide.</li>
</ol>
<h3>#1. Implement Threat Detection</h3>
Threat detection is the process of identifying potential cyber risks and putting a process in place to mitigate them. Through threat detection, you can prevent attacks from damaging your critical systems and infrastructure.
In the past, threat detection was a manual process that was overwhelmingly time-consuming. Now, through <a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://teampassword.com/blog/automated-cybersecurity" href="https://teampassword.com/blog/automated-cybersecurity">modern automation technology</a>, you have access to many threat detection and response (TDR) tools. For example, artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms can be used to identify threats by analyzing data from various sources.
<h3>#2. Secure Physical Utility Infrastructure</h3>
Not all attacks may target your computer systems. It's possible that attackers may come against your physical utility infrastructure. In fact, there have been threats of terrorism directed at infrastructure such as power grids.
Other threats, such as natural disasters, may not be malicious in nature. However, they can quickly damage your facilities and leave consumers without the resources they need. The key is to secure your physical infrastructure and systems.
There are many ways to do this. For example, you can implement robust access control features that require all who must enter your location or access your systems to use a fob or key card. Other methods can also be used, such as the installation of surveillance cameras and sensors that can detect unauthorized access.
<h3>#3. Perform Regular System Security Audits</h3>
The threat landscape is changing rapidly. Securing your systems isn't a one-and-done process. You must ensure your security protocols are up to the challenge of even the newest threats. One way to make sure you're ready for whatever comes your way is to perform regular security audits.
A security audit is the process of testing your security protocols to identify and mitigate any weaknesses. These audits typically involve diving into data security, network security, and other critical elements to ensure they're compliant and free of potential security holes.
For most companies, security audits should be performed at least once per year. However, for utility companies, more frequent audits may be necessary.
<h3>#4. Train Staff on Security Protocols</h3>
Your staff is on the frontlines when it comes to defending your utility company against threats. And unfortunately, human error is often the cause of security risks. In fact, <a href="https://edubirdie.com/blog/the-psychology-of-human-error" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">88% of data breaches are caused by human error</a>.
It's critical to ensure your <a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://teampassword.com/blog/cybersecurity-best-practices-for-employees" href="https://teampassword.com/blog/cybersecurity-best-practices-for-employees">employees understand security protocols</a> and know what to do in the event of an attack. To start, document your cybersecurity policies and protocols and keep them readily available to your team. Hold regular training sessions to discuss any policy changes or new threats.
It's also important to ensure your team understands how to use email correctly, how to access and use company data, and how to protect company information when using a mobile device.
<h3>#5. Implement Data Backups &amp; Recovery Plans</h3>
A critical element of threat detection and prevention is planning. You can get a jumpstart on preventing risks by implementing data backups and creating a recovery plan.
A data backup simply means creating a copy of your critical data and storing it elsewhere, such as in the cloud. Why back up your data? In the case of data theft or ransomware, for example, you'll still have access to the data you need to keep utilities available.
You should also have a <a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://teampassword.com/blog/cybersecurity-complete-guide" href="https://teampassword.com/blog/cybersecurity-complete-guide">recovery plan</a> in place. In the event of a data breach or attack, the recovery plan outlines the necessary steps you should take to recover. Following a plan can help you mitigate threats faster, prevent long periods of downtime, and reduce the costs associated with cyber attacks.
<h3>#6. Improve Password Use &amp; Management</h3>
There's one thing that often stands between a cybercriminal and your critical systems: the humble password. One simple yet incredibly effective way of improving security is by creating stronger passwords and managing them effectively.
First, what makes a <a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://teampassword.com/blog/tips-and-tricks-to-create-a-strong-password" href="https://teampassword.com/blog/tips-and-tricks-to-create-a-strong-password">strong password</a>? These passwords are longer than 12 characters, feature a mix of letters, numbers, and special characters, and don't include personal information. For the best results, use a <a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://teampassword.com/password-generator" href="https://teampassword.com/password-generator">password generator</a> that can provide unhackable passwords at the click of a button.
Strong passwords should still be managed appropriately. For example, it's time to stop using spreadsheets to share passwords across teams. Instead, opt for a <a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://teampassword.com/features" href="https://teampassword.com/features">password manager</a> tool, such as TeamPassword. Password managers store passwords for quick and <a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://teampassword.com/security" href="https://teampassword.com/security">secure logins</a> while also enabling seamless sharing for your employees.
<h3>#7. Use a Security Framework as a Guide</h3>
When it comes to cybersecurity for utilities, you don't have to start from scratch. There are various frameworks you can use as a guide for improving your security posture.
For example, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (<a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://www.nist.gov/cyberframework" href="https://www.nist.gov/cyberframework">NIST</a>) provides an in-depth cybersecurity framework that covers everything from identifying threats to recovering from attacks. In addition, the Office of Cybersecurity, Energy Security, and Emergency Response offers the Cybersecurity Capability Maturity Model (<a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://www.energy.gov/ceser/cybersecurity-capability-maturity-model-c2m2" href="https://www.energy.gov/ceser/cybersecurity-capability-maturity-model-c2m2">C2M2</a>) for utility companies that must assess their security capabilities.
<h2>Protect Your Critical Systems With TeamPassword</h2>
By following the above best practices and using the tools and frameworks at your disposal, you'll be able to better protect your critical systems and infrastructure.
One step you can take today is to improve the way you use and manage passwords. TeamPassword can help. Our password management tools are designed especially for teams and offer a wide range of capabilities, from password generation to password sharing. Plus, it's easy to use! Get started today by <a rel="follow noopener" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://app.teampassword.com/signup?_gl=1*14nmsrj*_gcl_au*MjEyNDYyMjE4Ny4xNjk0MDE3MDM2" href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup">signing up for TeamPassword</a>.

The utilities sector is ripe for cyber threats. Learn more about these threats and how to prevent them in this guide about cybersecurity for utilities.

The utilities sector is ripe for cyber threats. Learn more about these threats and how to prevent them ...

Cybersecurity for Industrial Control Systems: Best Practices

Cybersecurity for Utilities: Common Threats & Best Practices

You've probably heard the term 'WebAuthn' used in conjunction with passkeys. And while you've probably set up a passkey here and there and enjoyed the convenience of using your fingerprint to sign in to an application, you may be wondering how WebAuthn and passkeys are connected.&nbsp;
We'll clear up the difference between passkeys and WebAuthn in this article.&nbsp;
Here is the key difference between Passkeys and WebAuthn:
<ul>
<li>Passkey is a credential - it is one method for passwordless login</li>
<li>WebAuthn is a specification that helps developers implement passkeys on web applications</li>
</ul>
<h3>[Table of Contents]</h3>
<ul>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><a href="#whatisapasskey" rel="follow">What Is a Passkey?</a></li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><a href="#whatiswebauthn" rel="follow">What Is WebAuthn?</a></li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><a href="#keysimilaritiesdifferences" rel="follow">Passkey vs. WebAuthn: Key Similarities &amp; Differences</a></li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><a href="#arepasswordontheirwayout" rel="follow">Are Passwords On Their Way Out?</a></li>
</ul>
<h2 id="whatisapasskey">What Is a Passkey?</h2>
A passkey is a type of authentication method that allows users to access online services <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/passkey-vs-password" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">without using passwords</a>. Passkeys use asymmetric <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public-key_cryptography" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">public key cryptography</a>.
'Passkey' is a marketing term popularized by vendors like Google and Apple, and refers to Multi-Device FIDO Credentials implemented with the <a href="https://fidoalliance.org/specifications/" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">WebAuthn specification</a>.&nbsp;After reading that mouthful, you understand why everyone calls them passkeys!&nbsp;
More specifically, Passkey refers to a credential that uses public-private key cryptography and, rather than locking the private key to a single device, syncs it across devices. When passkeys were first rolled out, vendors would only sync within their ecosystem. If you created a passkey on an Apple device, it would only automatically sync to other Apple devices. If you needed to access that account on an Android device, you would need to create a separate passkey. We've written about this process thoroughly in our <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/passkey-technology#:~:text=device%20FIDO%20credentials-,Passkey%20Login%20Examples,-Note%3A%C2%A0Below" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">article on passkey technology</a>.&nbsp;
In the second half of 2023, third-party password managers started supporting passkey syncing. This is great news for the consumer - your passkeys don't have to be vendor or browser locked (e.g. Google Password Manager with Chromium-based browsers, and iCloud Keychain with Safari).&nbsp;
<h3>How Does a Passkey Work?</h3>
The public key is registered with the online service, while the private key never leaves the device (unless it is synced to other devices, as is commonly the case now). When the user wants to log in, the online service sends a challenge to the device, which uses the private key to sign it and send it back. The online service verifies the signature using the public key and grants access to the user.
There are several protocols running in the background to help make this possible: CTAP (client to authenticator protocol) which helps your browser talk to the authenticator, and WebAuthn which tells the browser how to talk to the web application for authentication.
<h3>Benefits of Passkeys</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Enhanced Security:&nbsp;Passkeys offer a higher level of security than traditional passwords, as they rely on unique and immutable biometric data that is difficult to forge or steal.</li>
<li>Convenience: Passkeys use an auhentication mechanism that the user already uses every day - the biometrics or PIN that unlocks their device. No more resetting passwords.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Protection Against Phishing Attacks: Passkeys are not susceptible to phishing attacks, as the private key is never seen by the user, unlike text-based passwords.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Reduced Credential Fatigue: Passkeys eliminate the temptation to reuse passwords across accounts - a bad habit that's all too easy when juggling hundreds of passwords.</li>
<li>Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Enhancement:&nbsp;Passkeys can be integrated into multi-factor authentication strategies, further fortifying account security.</li>
</ul>
<h2 id="whatiswebauthn">What Is WebAuthn?</h2>
WebAuthn is a web standard that defines an API for accessing public key credentials by web applications. It's goal is secure user authentication without passwords. The specification was published by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) and the FIDO Alliance, and is a core component of the FIDO2 Project. &nbsp;
<h3>How Does WebAuthn Work?</h3>
WebAuthn works by allowing web applications to communicate with authenticators, which are devices or software that can generate and store cryptographic keys and perform operations with them. Authenticators can be built-in to the platform (such as a Trusted Platform Module or a biometric sensor), or external (such as a USB security key or a smartphone). Web applications can request the creation of new credentials, or the assertion of existing ones, by calling the WebAuthn API methods in the browser. The browser then mediates the interaction with the authenticator, and returns the result to the web application. &nbsp;
In simpler terms, WebAuthn enables web applications to verify your identity using something you have (your device with its unique private key) in conjunction with the biometric data or PIN you use to unlock your device, instead of requiring you to create and remember/store a unique password for every website you use.&nbsp;
This way, you can have stronger and more convenient security for your online accounts, without having to rely on passwords that can be forgotten, stolen, or compromised.
<h3>Benefits of WebAuthn</h3>
Some of the benefits of WebAuthn are:
<ul>
<li>Resistant to phishing, man-in-the-middle, and replay attacks, since the authenticator only responds to legitimate requests from the origin that created the credential, and signs a challenge that is unique for each authentication session.</li>
<li>Privacy-preserving, since the authenticator does not reveal any personal or identifiable information to the web application, and does not link credentials across different origins.</li>
<li>Interoperable, since it is based on widely supported web standards and cryptographic algorithms, and allows for various types of authenticators and user verification methods.</li>
<li>User-friendly, since it reduces the need for passwords and offers a consistent and simple user experience across different platforms and devices.</li>
</ul>
Some of the criticisms of WebAuthn are:
<ul>
<li>It is not widely adopted yet, since it requires support from both web applications and browsers, and not all users have access to compatible authenticators.</li>
<li>It is not backward compatible with legacy systems that rely on passwords, which may limit its usability and acceptance by some users and organizations.</li>
<li>It is not foolproof, since it still depends on the security and integrity of the authenticator, the browser, the platform, and the user. For example, authenticators can be lost, stolen, or damaged; browsers can be compromised by malware or vulnerabilities; and platforms can be infected by rootkits or keyloggers.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<h2 id="keysimilaritiesdifferences">Passkey vs. WebAuthn: Key Similarities and Differences</h2>
Passkeys and WebAuthn are complementary, not competing technologies. WebAuthn is one piece of the supporting structure that makes passkeys work.&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>Passkeys and WebAuthn work together to create a passwordless login experience for the user</li>
</ul>
Key difference:
<ul>
<li>Passkeys are a digital credential, whereas WebAuthn is a specification that allows browsers and websites to communicate regarding passkey authentication.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
WebAuthn tells the browser how to talk to the website for authentication.&nbsp;
Your browser knows how to talk to the authenticator (usually your phone or laptop) using CTAP (client to authenticator protocol).
Once that&rsquo;s done, WebAuthn can tell the browser how to talk to the relying party (the website on which you&rsquo;re using the passkey) for authentication.
<h2 id="arepasswordontheirwayout">Are Passwords On Their Way Out?</h2>
Passwords are a hassle, and often a weak point in online security. There's no denying that. However, they are still essential for many websites and applications that do not support passwordless authentication methods. Until these technologies become more widely available and compatible, <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/ultimate-guide-to-password-security-teampassword" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">passwords remain a critical layer of protection</a> for our personal and professional data. It's important to improve our password hygiene and use strong, unique, and hard-to-guess passwords for each account.
The easiest and most secure way to do this is to use a password manager, which can <a href="https://teampassword.com/password-generator" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">generate</a> and store complex passwords for us, and autofill them when we need to log in. This way, we can avoid using the same password for multiple accounts, or writing them down on paper or digital notes. Password managers can also alert us if our passwords have been compromised or leaked, and help us change them quickly. By using a password manager, we can enhance our online security and prepare for the transition to passwordless authentication in the future.
<h2>Keep Your Passwords Safe &amp; Secure With TeamPassword</h2>
Passkeys are being rolled out with a focus on individual users and individual accounts. Many businesses need to share account access with multiple users, granting and removing access as needed.
Until passkeys can handle this use-case securely and with ease, and until enterprise applications support them, passwords are a fact of life for business.&nbsp;
<a href="https://teampassword.com/features" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">TeamPassword</a> was designed for businesses who share passwords. It's one of the easiest password managers to use, while offering industry-standard AES 256-bit vault encryption (see our security page&nbsp;<a href="https://teampassword.com/security" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">here</a>).&nbsp;
We offer a <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">14-day free trial</a>.&nbsp;

What's the difference between Passkeys and WebAuthn? Learn more about the new authentication method and the specification on which it is built.

What's the difference between Passkeys and WebAuthn? Learn more about the relationship between the authentication method and the ...

Passkey vs. WebAuthn: What's the Difference?

What's the difference between Passkeys and WebAuthn? Learn more about the relationship between the authentication method and the specification on which it is built.

Industrial control systems (ICSs) are the backbone of critical infrastructure. Power plants, water treatment facilities, and manufacturing plants rely on their smooth operation. These systems monitor and control physical processes, such as temperature, pressure, and flow. However, these systems are also increasingly exposed to cyber threats that can compromise their availability, integrity, and safety. In this guide, we will discuss the common threats to ICSs, why cybersecurity is important for these systems, and the best practices to secure them.
Here are the key things you need to know about cybersecurity for industrial control systems:
<ul>
<li>ICSs face various cyber threats, such as ransomware, malware, and advanced persistent threats (APTs), that disrupt service and cause permanent damage.&nbsp;</li>
<li>ICS cybersecurity is important to protect critical infrastructure, ensure operational continuity, and prevent physical and environmental harm.</li>
<li>ICS cybersecurity differs from traditional IT security and presents challenges such as legacy systems, new technology integration, and regulatory compliance.</li>
<li>ICS security requires a holistic approach that includes network segmentation, patching and updating software, training employees, implementing multi-factor authentication, and more.</li>
</ul>
<h3>[Table of Contents]</h3>
<ul>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><a href="#commonthreats" rel="follow">Common Threats for Industrial Control Systems (ICS)</a></li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><a href="#whyICScybersecurityisimportant" rel="follow">Why ICS Cybersecurity Is Important</a></li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><a href="#challengesofsecuringICS" rel="follow">The Challenges of Securing Industrial Control Systems</a></li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><a href="#7bestpractices" rel="follow">Cybersecurity for Industrial Control Systems: 7 Best Practices</a></li>
</ul>
<h2 id="commonthreats">Common Threats for Industrial Control Systems (ICS)</h2>
ICSs are not immune to cyberattacks. In fact, they are often targeted by malicious actors who seek to disrupt or damage critical infrastructure. Some of the common threats to ICSs include:
Ransomware: This is a type of malware that encrypts data or systems and demands a ransom for decryption. Ransomware can affect ICSs by locking operators out of their systems or preventing them from accessing vital information. For example, in 2017, the <a href="https://www.cisa.gov/news-events/alerts/2017/07/01/petya-ransomware" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">NotPetya ransomware</a> infected several industrial organizations, including a Ukrainian power company and a Danish shipping company.
Malware: This is a general term for any malicious software that can harm or compromise a system. Malware can affect ICSs by stealing data, altering settings, disrupting operations, or causing physical damage. In 2010, the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stuxnet" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Stuxnet malware targeted Iranian nuclear facilities</a> and caused centrifuges to spin out of control.
APTs: These are advanced persistent threats that are carried out by sophisticated and well-resourced adversaries who aim to infiltrate and persist in a network for a long time. APTs can affect ICSs by conducting espionage, sabotage, or theft. In 2015, the BlackEnergy APT group launched a cyberattack against Ukrainian power grids and caused blackouts for hundreds of thousands of customers.
<h2 id="whyICScybersecurityisimportant">Why ICS Cybersecurity Is Important</h2>
The importance of ICS cybersecurity cannot be overstated. Securing these systems is essential for:
<ul>
<li>Protecting critical infrastructure: ICSs are responsible for delivering essential services that support the economy and society. A cyberattack on these systems can have severe consequences for public health, safety, and security. For example, a cyberattack on a water treatment plant could contaminate the water supply or cause flooding.</li>
<li>Ensuring operational continuity: ICSs are vital for maintaining productivity and efficiency in various industries. A cyberattack on these systems can cause downtime, loss of revenue, or reputational damage. For example, a cyberattack on a manufacturing plant could halt production or compromise product quality.</li>
<li>Preventing physical and environmental harm: ICSs control physical processes that involve hazardous materials or high-energy equipment. A cyberattack on these systems can cause physical injury or death to workers or civilians or environmental damage. For example, a cyberattack on a gas pipeline could cause an explosion or a fire.</li>
</ul>
<h2 id="challengesofsecuringICS">The Challenges of Securing Industrial Control Systems</h2>
Securing ICSs is not an easy task. There are several differences between traditional IT security and ICS security that pose various challenges:
<ul>
<li>Legacy systems: Many ICSs were designed decades ago when cybersecurity was not a priority. These systems often run on outdated hardware and software that have known vulnerabilities or lack security features. Moreover, these systems are difficult to replace or upgrade due to high costs or operational constraints.</li>
<li>New technology integration: As technology evolves, many ICSs are adopting new technologies such as cloud computing, internet of things (IoT), or wireless communication. These technologies can improve performance and functionality but also introduce new attack vectors and risks. Furthermore, these technologies may not be compatible with legacy systems or existing security measures.</li>
<li>Regulatory compliance: ICSs operate in highly regulated environments that require adherence to various standards and regulations. These regulations may vary by industry or region and may impose specific requirements or limitations on security practices. Additionally, these regulations may not keep pace with the changing threat landscape or technology trends.</li>
</ul>
<h2 id="7bestpractices">Cybersecurity for Industrial Control Systems: 7 Best Practices</h2>
To secure ICSs effectively, it is important to adopt a holistic approach that covers all aspects of security from prevention to detection to response. Here are some of the best practices to follow:
<h3>#1. Segment Networks</h3>
Network segmentation is the practice of dividing a network into smaller subnetworks or zones based on functionality, security level, or access control. Network segmentation can help secure ICSs by:
Isolating critical systems from non-critical systems or external networks. This can reduce the attack surface and prevent lateral movement of attackers within the network. Applying different security policies and controls to different segments based on their risk profile and needs. This can ensure that each segment has the appropriate level of protection and monitoring. Enhancing visibility and management of network traffic and activity. This can help detect and respond to anomalies or incidents faster and more effectively.
Some of the methods of segmenting networks for ICSs include:
<ul>
<li>Using firewalls, routers, switches, or gateways to create physical or logical boundaries between segments.</li>
<li>Using virtual local area networks (VLANs) or virtual private networks (VPNs) to create virtual boundaries between segments.</li>
<li>Using encryption, authentication, or authorization to secure data and access between segments.</li>
</ul>
<h3>#2. Regularly Patch and Update Software</h3>
Patching and updating software is the process of applying fixes or improvements to software or firmware to address bugs, vulnerabilities, or performance issues. Patching and updating software can help secure ICSs by:
<ul>
<li>Eliminating known vulnerabilities that can be exploited by attackers. This can reduce the likelihood and impact of cyberattacks.</li>
<li>Enhancing functionality and compatibility of software or firmware. This can improve performance and reliability of systems and devices.</li>
<li>Complying with regulatory requirements or industry standards. This can avoid penalties or sanctions for non-compliance.</li>
</ul>
Some of the challenges of patching and updating software for ICSs include:
<ul>
<li>Finding and testing patches or updates that are compatible with legacy systems or devices. This may require coordination with vendors or manufacturers.</li>
<li><a href="https://www.darkreading.com/ics-ot/unpatched-iot-ot-devices-pile-up-ics-cyberattacks#:~:text=Why%20ICS%20Patching%20Takes%20So%20Long" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Scheduling downtime or maintenance windows</a> to apply patches or updates without disrupting operations. This may require planning and communication with stakeholders. Balancing security and stability of systems or devices. This may require prioritizing patches or updates based on their criticality and risk.</li>
</ul>
<h3>#3. Train Employees to Build Awareness</h3>
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/efjYkgHOSX2QsDjNeEsC" alt="undefined" width="618" height="618">
Training employees is the process of <a href="https://teampassword.com/password-generator" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">educating and informing employees about cybersecurity</a> policies, procedures, and best practices. Training employees can help secure ICSs by:
<ul>
<li>Increasing awareness and understanding of cyber threats, risks, and impacts. This can help employees recognize and avoid potential attacks or incidents.</li>
<li>Improving skills and knowledge of cybersecurity tools and techniques. This can help employees perform their tasks securely and efficiently.</li>
<li>Fostering a culture of security and responsibility among employees. This can help employees report incidents, follow guidelines, and support security initiatives.</li>
</ul>
Some of the methods of training employees for ICSs include:
<ul>
<li>Providing regular training sessions or workshops on cybersecurity topics relevant to ICSs, such as common threats, security controls, incident response, etc.</li>
<li>Developing online courses or modules that employees can access anytime and anywhere.</li>
<li>Creating posters, flyers, newsletters, or videos that convey cybersecurity messages or tips in an engaging way.</li>
</ul>
<h3>#4. Implement Multi-Factor Authentication</h3>
<a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/maximize-security-with-2fa" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Multi-factor authentication</a> (MFA) is the practice of requiring two or more factors to verify the identity of a user before granting access to a system or resource. The factors may include something the user knows (such as a password), something the user has (such as a token), or something the user is (such as a fingerprint). MFA can help secure ICSs by:
<ul>
<li>Preventing unauthorized access to systems or resources by attackers who may have stolen or guessed passwords or credentials. This can protect sensitive data and prevent tampering with settings or operations.</li>
<li>Enhancing accountability and traceability of user actions by linking them to specific identities. This can help monitor and audit user activity and behavior.</li>
<li>Complying with regulatory requirements or industry standards that mandate MFA for certain systems or resources. This can avoid penalties or sanctions for non-compliance.</li>
</ul>
Some of the challenges of implementing MFA for ICSs include:
<ul>
<li>Finding and deploying MFA solutions that are compatible with legacy systems or devices. This may require coordination with vendors or manufacturers.</li>
<li>Educating and training users on how to use MFA solutions correctly and securely. This may require providing guidance and support to users.</li>
<li>Balancing security and usability of MFA solutions. This may require choosing MFA factors that are convenient and reliable for users.</li>
</ul>
<h3>#5. Improve Password Hygiene</h3>
According to research from Nozomi Networks, poor <a href="https://www.nozominetworks.com/blog/new-nozomi-networks-labs-report-august-2023#:~:text=Findings%20from%20Real%2DWorld%20OT/IoT%20Deployments" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">password hygiene continues to top the lists</a> for critical alerts affecting industrial control systems.&nbsp;
Passwords are the first line of defense for securing ICS systems. They prevent unauthorized access to critical systems and data. However, passwords can also be the weakest link if they are not managed properly.
Good password hygiene means following some best practices, such as:
<ul>
<li>Using strong and unique passwords for each account and system</li>
<li>Changing passwords regularly and avoiding reusing old passwords</li>
<li>Storing passwords securely and not sharing them with others</li>
<li>Using multi-factor authentication when possible</li>
</ul>
Managing passwords for ICS systems can be challenging, especially when there are multiple users, devices, and systems involved. That's why you need a password management solution like TeamPassword.
TeamPassword is a <a href="https://teampassword.com/password-generator" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">security-first</a> password vault that allows you to share passwords with your teammates within an AES 256-bit secured environment.&nbsp;
TeamPassword helps you&nbsp;<a href="https://teampassword.com/features" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">create, store, and share</a> passwords securely and easily. You can organize your passwords into groups and assign access permissions to different users. You can also sync your passwords across devices and browsers, so you can access your ICS systems from anywhere. TeamPassword includes a <a href="https://teampassword.com/password-generator" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">built-in password generator</a> so you can quickly create secure passwords.
Password management is tedious without the right tools - and if that's the case, people usually don't do it. TeamPassword works to make good password hygiene easy.&nbsp;
<h3>#6. Continuously Monitor ICS for Threats</h3>
ICS systems are constantly exposed to various threats, such as malware, ransomware, denial-of-service attacks, and phishing. These threats can disrupt the normal operation of ICS systems, cause damage to equipment and infrastructure, and endanger public safety and health.
To prevent these threats from compromising your ICS systems, you need to continuously monitor them for any signs of suspicious or malicious activity. You need to have a clear visibility of your network traffic, system performance, and user behavior. You also need to have a reliable detection system that can alert you of any anomalies or incidents.
<h3>#7. Ensure Physical Assets Are Secure</h3>
Securing your ICS systems is not only about protecting them from cyber threats, but also from physical threats. Physical threats can include theft, vandalism, sabotage, fire, flood, or natural disasters. These threats can damage or destroy your ICS equipment and data, as well as harm the people who operate or depend on them.
To ensure your physical assets are secure, you need to implement some measures, such as:
<ul>
<li>Locking and securing the locations where your ICS equipment and data are stored</li>
<li>Restricting access to authorized personnel only and verifying their identity</li>
<li>Installing surveillance cameras and alarms to deter intruders</li>
<li>Having backup power sources and data recovery plans in case of emergencies</li>
<li>Conducting regular inspections and maintenance of your ICS equipment</li>
</ul>
<h2>Protect Your ICS Passwords &amp; Data With TeamPassword</h2>
We've discussed some tips on how to protect your ICS systems from cyber and physical threats. If you're looking for a password management solution designed for teams, give TeamPassword a serious look.
TeamPassword is designed to be so easy to use that your employees won't be tempted to revert to insecure password habits. Divide passwords into groups so that teammates only access what they need, and ensure that your passwords never leave a secure environment. Features like the password generator, reminders, and enforceable 2FA work together to create a practical solution for securing company passwords.&nbsp;
To learn more about how TeamPassword can help you protect your ICS passwords and data,&nbsp;<a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">sign up for a free trial today</a>!

When it comes to protecting your ICS, there are some best practices to follow. Learn more about cybersecurity for industrial control systems in this guide.

When it comes to protecting your ICS, there are some best practices to follow. Learn more about cybersecurity ...

As cyber threats continue to grow in complexity and frequency, the need for robust defenses is more pressing than ever. Enter cybersecurity artificial intelligence (AI), a technology that holds the promise of enhancing our digital defenses. However, it's essential to acknowledge that while cybersecurity AI is advancing rapidly, it still faces significant shortcomings. In this guide, we will explore the current landscape of cybersecurity AI, its shortcomings, and the exciting potential for growth in this field.
[Table of Contents]
<ul>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><a href="#currentlandscape" rel="follow">The Current Landscape of Cybersecurity AI</a></li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><a href="#howiscybersecurityaibeingimproved" rel="follow">How Is Cybersecurity AI Being Improved?</a></li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><a href="#theevolution" rel="follow">The Evolution of Cybersecurity AI: Potential Challenges</a></li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><a href="#simpletips" rel="follow">Simple Tips for Strengthening Your Cybersecurity</a></li>
</ul>
<h2 id="currentlandscape">The Current Landscape of Cybersecurity AI</h2>
Cybersecurity AI is already <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/ai-cybersecurity-solutions" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">playing a pivotal role</a> in safeguarding digital assets. From threat detection to response automation, AI algorithms are being deployed across various domains of cybersecurity.&nbsp;
However, AI also has some shortcomings that limit its effectiveness and pose new challenges for security professionals. Some of these shortcomings are:
<ul>
<li>Resources: AI systems require a lot of computing power, memory, and data to function properly. These resources are not always available or affordable for small and medium-sized businesses, making them less able to leverage AI for security purposes.</li>
<li>Data sets: AI models are trained with learning data sets that reflect the patterns and behaviors of cyber threats. However, these data sets may be incomplete, outdated, or biased, affecting the accuracy and reliability of AI predictions. Additionally, data sets may contain sensitive information that could be compromised or misused by malicious actors.</li>
<li>Hackers also use AI: Cybercriminals can also use AI to create more sophisticated and stealthy malware, evade detection, and launch targeted attacks. For example, they can use AI to generate convincing phishing emails, create realistic deepfakes, or manipulate data. Therefore, security professionals need to constantly update and monitor their AI systems to counter these threats.</li>
</ul>
<h2 id="howiscybersecurityaibeingimproved">How Is Cybersecurity AI Being Improved?</h2>
As we said above, cybercriminals are using AI to enhance their attacks. In response, cybersecurity experts are leveraging the power of AI to defend against the enhanced attacks.
Here are some of the ways cybersecurity AI is being improved:
<h3>Data-Driven Improvements</h3>
By collecting and processing data from various sources, such as network devices, applications, sensors, and user behavior, AI can learn to identify patterns and trends that indicate malicious activity. AI can also use data to optimize security policies and configurations, as well as to provide actionable insights and recommendations to security teams. For example, AI can help detect and prevent data breaches by monitoring data access and usage, alerting security teams of suspicious or unauthorized activities, and enforcing encryption and authentication protocols. &nbsp;
<h3>Better Machine Learning Models</h3>
Machine learning is a subset of AI that enables systems to learn from data and improve their performance without explicit programming. <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/automated-cybersecurity#:~:text=for%20Automated%20Cybersecurity-,What%20Is%20Automated%20Cybersecurity%3F,-Automated%20cybersecurity%20is" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Machine learning models</a> can be trained to recognize and classify different types of cyber threats, such as malware, phishing, ransomware, denial-of-service attacks, etc. Machine learning models can also be updated and refined with new data and feedback, making them more accurate and adaptable over time. For example, machine learning can help detect and block malware by analyzing the behavior and characteristics of malicious code, comparing it with known malware signatures and variants,&nbsp;
<h3>Adaptive Learning</h3>
Adaptive learning is a form of machine learning that enables systems to adjust their behavior and strategies based on changing conditions and feedback.
Adaptive learning can help cybersecurity AI to cope with the dynamic and evolving nature of cyber threats, as well as to respond to new or unknown attacks. It can also help cybersecurity AI to balance between security and performance, as well as to avoid false positives and negatives. For example, adaptive learning can help optimize firewall rules by analyzing network traffic patterns, detecting anomalies and intrusions, and modifying firewall settings accordingly. &nbsp;
<h3>Human &amp; AI Collaboration</h3>
Human &amp; AI Collaboration: Human &amp; AI collaboration is the integration of human expertise and judgment with AI capabilities and automation. Human &amp; AI collaboration can help cybersecurity AI to leverage the strengths of both parties, such as human creativity and intuition, and AI speed and scalability. Human &amp; AI collaboration can also help cybersecurity AI to overcome the limitations and challenges of both parties, such as human bias and fatigue, and AI exploitability and trustworthiness. For example, human &amp; AI collaboration can help improve incident response by combining human analysis and decision making with AI automation and orchestration, enabling faster and more effective detection, containment, and remediation of cyber threats. &nbsp;
<h2 id="theevolution">The Evolution of Cybersecurity AI: Potential Challenges</h2>
One challenge is the knowledge gap between cybersecurity experts and AI developers. Cybersecurity is a complex and dynamic field that requires specialized skills and experience. AI is a rapidly developing technology that requires technical expertise and creativity. The two domains may not communicate well or share common goals, leading to misunderstandings, conflicts, or inefficiencies.
For example, cybersecurity experts may not trust or adopt AI solutions that they do not understand or control, while AI developers may not address the security risks or ethical issues that their solutions may create or worsen.
Another challenge is the privacy concern from using AI in cybersecurity. AI relies on large amounts of data to learn and improve. Some of this data may be sensitive or personal, such as user behavior, preferences, or identity. The collection, processing, storage, and sharing of such data may threaten the privacy of individuals or organizations, especially if the data is not protected or anonymized. Moreover, AI may generate or infer new information from the data that was not intended or consented by the data owners, such as predictions, recommendations, or decisions. This raises questions about the transparency, accountability, and fairness of AI in cybersecurity.
A third challenge is the lack of data that hinders AI in cybersecurity. Data is essential for AI to learn and function effectively. However, data in cybersecurity is often scarce, noisy, imbalanced, or outdated. This is because cyberattacks are rare events that are hard to detect and collect; they vary widely in their types, sources, targets, and impacts; and they change and adapt to evade security measures. It is hard to obtain high-quality and representative data that can capture the diversity and complexity of cyberattacks and enable AI to generalize and respond appropriately.
<h2 id="simpletips">Simple Tips for Strengthening Your Cybersecurity</h2>
While we await further advancements in cybersecurity AI, there are steps you can take to bolster your digital defenses:
<ol style="list-style-type: none;">
<li>
Use Strong Passwords: Create <a href="https://teampassword.com/password-generator" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">complex, unique passwords</a> for each online account, and consider using a password manager like TeamPassword to securely store them.
</li>
<li>
Utilize Antivirus Software and Firewalls: Install reliable antivirus software and firewalls to provide an additional layer of protection against malware and network threats.
</li>
<li>
Employee Training: <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/cybersecurity-best-practices-for-employees" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Educate your team</a> about potential cyber threats and how to recognize phishing attempts or other suspicious activities.
</li>
<li>
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Enable MFA wherever possible to add an extra layer of security to your accounts.
</li>
<li>
Continuous Monitoring: Regularly scan your systems for vulnerabilities and keep software and applications up to date to patch known security issues.
</li>
</ol>
By following these simple tips and considering the potential advantages of tools like TeamPassword, you can strengthen your cybersecurity posture while also keeping an eye on the exciting developments in cybersecurity AI. As AI technology continues to grow, it will undoubtedly become an even more integral part of our defense against evolving cyber threats.
<h2>Improve Your Cybersecurity With TeamPassword</h2>
If you share passwords with colleagues and need an easy, secure, and cost-effective way to do so,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="follow noopener" href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup">try TeamPassword</a>. If you have questions,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="follow noopener" href="https://teampassword.com/support">reach out to our team</a>&nbsp;- we're happy to hear from you.&nbsp;
TeamPassword focuses on&nbsp;frictionless implementation,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="follow noopener" href="https://teampassword.com/features">ease of use</a>,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="follow noopener" href="https://teampassword.com/security">security</a>, and&nbsp;exceptional customer support.
Need proof? Read what&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="follow noopener" href="https://www.g2.com/products/teampassword/features">our customers are saying about us on G2</a>.&nbsp;

How is cybersecurity AI being improved? The use of AI in cybersecurity is ever-evolving. Learn more about this growth and what the future may hold here.

How is cybersecurity AI being improved? The use of AI in cybersecurity is ever-evolving. Learn more about this ...

How Is Cybersecurity AI Being Improved? Shortcomings & Growth

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

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

What To Do If You Forgot Your Old Facebook Login

What To Do If You Forgot Your Old Facebook Login | TeamPassword

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, 1 in 3 US workers engaged in freelance work during 2020. Some of the most successful freelancers earn hundreds of thousands of dollars per year through platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, and Toptal.
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Does your company hire freelancers? How do you <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/should-i-share-data-with-freelancers">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/dashboard#signup/testimonial">Sign up for a 14-day free trial</a> today.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;
<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!
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
<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;
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
<h3>2. Kathy Edens - Marketing Consultant / Freelance Copywriter - United States</h3>
<a href="https://www.upwork.com/freelancers/~016177d19f0624c1a7?viewMode=1">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.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;
<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">portfolio website Koenvo</a> was nominated for a <a href="https://www.awwwards.com/sites/koenvo-ui-ux-portfolio">2021 awwwards. Award</a>.
&nbsp; &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.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
<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/">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">Top Rated Upwork Freelancer</a> with over $70k in platform earnings. Jana's rates start at $100 per hour for copywriting and brand consulting.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
<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="follow noopener" target="_blank">Upwork profile</a>.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
<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/">Marcos Rezende's website</a> was nominated for the prestigious <a href="https://www.awwwards.com/sites/ux-portfolio-marcos-rezende">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">Tanya is a Top Rated Upwork Freelancer</a> with more than $200k platform earnings. Her current rate starts at $162.50 per hour.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
<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/dashboard#signup/testimonial">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.
<a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">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">password generator</a> lets you create secure passwords between 12-32 characters using numbers, letters (uppercase/lowercase), and symbols.
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Ready to onboard clients and freelancers securely with TeamPassword's robust <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">password management solution</a>? <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial">Sign up for a free trial</a> to secure your company's digital assets today!

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