<p>In an increasingly digital world, we&rsquo;re switching more and more of our daily lives over to the Internet. While this brave new world is exciting and convenient, it&rsquo;s not without its problems.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The issue of unsafe passwords has been around for a while. But have you ever thought about where and how to store them?</p>
<p>Most of us have several passwords, and we&rsquo;re encouraged to never duplicate them. Some people simply write them all down on a piece of paper &mdash; which is fraught with danger. But others store their passwords electronically.</p>
<p>As you&rsquo;re about to find out, not all electronic systems of password storage are <a href="https://www.teampassword.com/blog/10-things-you-need-to-do-to-keep-passwords-safe" target="_blank" rel="noopener">safe</a>. Here are five of the most dangerous ways to store your passwords.&nbsp;</p>
<p>But before we begin:</p>
<p>Avoid bad idea passwords and dangerous storage methods with TeamPassword. This advanced <a href="https://www.teampassword.com/blog/why-you-need-a-password-manager" target="_blank" rel="noopener">password manager</a> features a selection of security features, including password encryption and two-step verification. Sign up for a <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial" rel="follow">free trial</a> today.&nbsp;</p>
<p></p>
<h2>1. Email</h2>
<p>Have you ever emailed yourself a password to ensure you&rsquo;re never without it? Great idea, right? Actually, emailing yourself your passwords is a really bad idea, and here&rsquo;s why:</p>
<ul>
<li>Emails are usually sent in plain text. Without encryption, your passwords are susceptible if your email account is ever compromised.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Unsafe passwords sent via email often pass through several systems and servers. There&rsquo;ll also be a copy in your sent folder. If someone else can access your email account, your passwords become vulnerable.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Some email platforms store data locally on a drive. If someone steals your computer, phone, or tablet, your passwords become vulnerable.</li>
</ul>
<p>A really bad idea for passwords is to send them via email &mdash; either to yourself or someone else. <a href="https://www.teampassword.com/blog/have-i-been-hacked-how-to-know-for-sure" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hackers </a>and scammers are more resourceful than ever, and they can often steal your information before you realize you&rsquo;ve been compromised.&nbsp;</p>
<p>It&rsquo;s tempting to send a quick email to yourself containing unsafe passwords when you sign up for new online services. For the sake of an extra minute or two, don&rsquo;t give fraudsters easy access to your accounts. Use an encrypted email vault to safeguard all your passwords.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>2. Online Documents</h2>
<p>A lot of people like the convenience of saving crucial information using online document systems such as Google Docs. But this is a bad idea for passwords, as these systems are designed for text &mdash; not sensitive data.</p>
<p>Yes, a password might protect your online document manager from unauthorized access. But what happens if that password is compromised? Many document software platforms don&rsquo;t offer encryption, two-step verification, or even the most basic security measures.&nbsp;</p>
<p>If you use online documents regularly, you&rsquo;re probably accessing your account on a regular basis &mdash; across several devices. What happens if you step away for a moment to buy a coffee, speak to a friend, or use the bathroom?</p>
<p>A criminal can access an unattended online document platform in seconds. And if this happens, it doesn't take a lot of effort to steal your unsafe passwords.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>3. Instant Messaging Service</h2>
<p>Instant messaging services provide us with a convenient way of staying in touch with friends and family. WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and Snapchat were designed for private online conversations &mdash; not for storing passwords.</p>
<p>People who store their passwords on these apps do so because they believe they&rsquo;re fully encrypted. While that&rsquo;s often the case, it&rsquo;s important to remember that instant messaging services are often left open and operating in the background.</p>
<p>Imagine someone picks up your phone while you&rsquo;re not paying attention. If you left your device unlocked, that person would be able to access your password in seconds.</p>
<p>It&rsquo;s always a bad idea when passwords are stored on instant messaging services. By nature, these apps are designed to operate in the background &mdash; alerting you when someone sends a message. And because they&rsquo;re open, anyone with the device in their hand might be able to steal your unprotected passwords.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Don&rsquo;t fall into the trap of utilizing bad ideas for password storage. Sign up for a <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial" target="_blank" rel="noopener">free trial</a> with TeamPassword, and give your unsafe passwords the protection they require.</p>
<h2>4. Online Note-taker</h2>
<p>Developers design online note-takers for everyday lists and reminders. While they&rsquo;re great for creating to-do and shopping lists, they&rsquo;re not so good for storing unsafe passwords.&nbsp;</p>
<p>An app such as Apple Notes is easy to use, accessible, and convenient. But it doesn&rsquo;t offer two-step authentication, encryption, or any sophisticated form of security.&nbsp;</p>
<p>If your computer or mobile device is unlocked, your saved passwords are vulnerable. In many cases, a criminal would simply need to open the app to gain access to your sensitive information.&nbsp;</p>
<p>OK, you might be extra vigilant when it comes to keeping your phone or computer locked. But hackers are resourceful, and they&rsquo;re very good at discovering unsafe passwords. Once they access your phone, any passwords stored in your note-taking app become vulnerable.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>5. On a Non-Password-Protected Device</h2>
<p>Of all the bad ideas for passwords, storing them on non-password-protected devices is about the worst. You might think that your tablet or laptop never leaves your side. But if your device is ever stolen, you&rsquo;ve given the criminals the easiest possible opportunity to access your saved passwords.&nbsp;</p>
<p>If you&rsquo;re determined to store passwords on a physical device &mdash; which is never a good idea &mdash; make sure the device password is a complex combination of letters, numbers, and symbols. And it should contain at least 12 characters.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Use TeamPassword for Extra Protection</h2>
<p>Remembering and safely storing a dozen or more passwords isn&rsquo;t a simple task. By locking away all your passwords in a digital vault, you get maximum protection and easy access.&nbsp;</p>
<p>TeamPassword offers a range of <a href="https://www.teampassword.com/security" target="_blank" rel="noopener">security features</a> &mdash; designed to keep your passwords safe. Offering two-step authentication and encryption, this powerful protection system solves the problem of unsafe passwords with ease. Sign up for a <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial" target="_blank" rel="noopener">free trial</a> to see these exciting features for yourself.&nbsp;</p>

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

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

Top 5 Dangerous Ways to Store Your Passwords

<p dir="ltr"><span>Passwords and passphrases are essential in the digital age. With so much of our lives online, we must ensure that our accounts and personal information remain secure. But what is the difference between a password and a passphrase, and which is better? Let&rsquo;s take a closer look.</span><b></b></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>A password is a string of characters used to authenticate a user, while a passphrase is a sequence of words or phrases used for the same purpose. A passphrase is usually longer and more complex than a password, making it harder to guess or crack.</span></p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><span>What is a Password?</span><b></b></h2>
<p dir="ltr"><span>A password is a string of characters, such as letters, numbers, and symbols, used to authenticate a user's identity. When you create an account on a website, you are usually asked to choose a password. You enter this password when you log in to the website to prove that you are who you say you are.</span><b></b></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Passwords have been around for a long time and are still widely used today. However, as hackers become more sophisticated, using strong passwords to protect your online accounts is becoming increasingly important.</span><b></b></p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><span>What is a Passphrase?</span><b></b></h2>
<p dir="ltr"><span>A passphrase is similar to a password, but instead of a random string of characters, it is a series of words. For example, "correct-horse-battery-staple".&nbsp;</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>The hyphens are important, as they increase the number and type of characters, thus the passphrase's overall security. You can use any symbol to separate the words and increase security.&nbsp;</span><b></b></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Passphrases are becoming more popular as people realize that they are easier to remember than passwords while still being secure. Due to their length, they resist brute-force attacks, where an attacker tries to guess your password by systematically trying every possible combination of characters.</span><b></b></p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><span>Passphrase vs. Password: Which is Better?</span><b></b></h2>
<p><span>Passphrases are easier to remember and are typically more secure if they use a larger number of characters. However, if the system limits you to less than 20 characters, you'll be more secure with a randomly generated password that includes a healthy mix of numbers and symbols.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p>A password is better than a passphrase in some situations, such as:</p>
<ul>
<li>When the system has a strict limit on the number of characters or symbols allowed</li>
<li>When the user needs to type the password frequently or quickly</li>
<li>When the user has a reliable and secure way to store or remember the password</li>
<li>When the password is randomly generated and has high entropy</li>
</ul>
<p>A passphrase is better than a password in other situations, such as:</p>
<ul>
<li>When the system allows for longer and more complex inputs</li>
<li>When the user wants to avoid common password cracking techniques</li>
<li>When the user can create a memorable and unique phrase</li>
<li>When the passphrase is composed of words from different languages or domains</li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"></span></p>
<h2><strong>How to Create a Strong Passphrase</strong></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">For most people,<span style="color: #000000;"> </span></span><span style="color: #40d8e3;"><a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2016/10/06/passwords-are-the-weakest-link-in-cybersecurity-today-michael-chertoff-commentary.html" style="color: #40d8e3; text-decoration: underline;" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">the weakest link in their security is their password</span></a></span><span style="font-weight: 400;">. There are a few strategies to write good passphrases that I recommend.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Start by choosing a few of your favorite things. For example, I will start with my favorite band, Guided by Voices. I will also use one of my favorite songs from them, like &ldquo;Echos Myron.&rdquo; Take some words from each source, and mix them up with some significant numbers for you.</span></p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">VoicesJMY6ASMyron7988Liberty</span></i></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">This password is constructed of the third word from the name of the band, a license plate number for a car, the second word from the song title, part of a phone number, and a standout term from the song. Since you built this phrase yourself, you should be able to remember it quickly, and you now have a 28-character password!&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Passphrases improve your password security by helping you remember a long string of characters that don't make sense to anyone else. If you build all of your passphrases like this, your passwords will be nearly impossible for another human to guess.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">You can take it further by substituting letters or numbers for symbols. For example, in the password above, you can replace all the &lsquo;i&rsquo; characters with the &lsquo;!&rsquo; symbol. This will break most of the dictionary words in your password, making it even more impenetrable and easy to remember!</span></p>
<h3><span>Here are Some Tips to Building a Strong Passphrase&nbsp;</span></h3>
<h4 dir="ltr"><span>1.Use a Random Combination of Words</span></h4>
<p dir="ltr"><span>The key to a strong passphrase is randomness. Don't use a common phrase or saying that someone else might guess. Instead, use a combination of random words that have no connection to each other or only have meaning to you.&nbsp;</span><b></b></p>
<h4 dir="ltr"><span>2. Use a Long Phrase</span></h4>
<p dir="ltr"><span>The longer your passphrase, the more secure it will be. Aim for at least 20 characters or more.</span><b></b></p>
<h4 dir="ltr"><span>3. Include Numbers, Symbols, and Capital Letters</span></h4>
<p dir="ltr"><span>While a passphrase comprises words, you can still include numbers, symbols, and capital letters to make it even more secure. For example, you could replace letters with numbers, such as "l3monad3", or include symbols, such as "!n3w_y0rk_C1ty".</span><b></b></p>
<h4 dir="ltr"><span>4. Don't Reuse Passphrases</span></h4>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Just like passwords, you should never reuse a passphrase across multiple accounts. If one of your accounts is compromised, an attacker could use the same passphrase to access your other accounts.</span><b></b></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>In summary, passwords and passphrases each have their own use cases. Passwords are still suitable for some situations, but passphrases are a better choice if you need to remember your login details. When creating a passphrase, aim for randomness, length, and complexity, and never reuse the same passphrase across multiple accounts. By following these tips, you can help keep your online accounts secure.</span></p>
<p>Most people have well over one hundred online accounts. You&rsquo;ll never remember 100 unique passphrases, so get a password manager.<b id="docs-internal-guid-14322e72-7fff-ae94-b4c5-ca449982fc4a"><span> </span><a href="https://teampassword.com/pricing" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank"><span>Try us out for free today</span></a><span>!</span></b></p>

Passphrase vs. Password. Which one should you choose? They each have strengths and weaknesses depending on the context. Learn the difference.

If you’ve been keeping up with the news, you know that the internet is essentially the Wild West. ...

Password vs. Passphrase: A Comprehensive Overview | TeamPassword

If you’ve been keeping up with the news, you know that the internet is essentially the Wild West. Hackers and career criminals take advantage of computer users by extorting them for ransom and forcing them to pay in bitcoin. Like in the real world, criminals can attack when you least expect it. But just like in the real world, you can become more precautious, gain some spacial awareness, and make yourself safe when surfing and working on the web.

<p>In today's interconnected world, where technology advancements are rampant, the need for robust cybersecurity solutions has never been greater. Cyberattacks are growing in frequency and sophistication, posing significant challenges to individuals, businesses, and governments.</p>
<p>The first six months of 2022 saw 2.8 billion malware attacks and a 60% increase in malicious DDoS attacks in the same period, <a href="https://www.getastra.com/blog/security-audit/cyber-security-statistics/#:~:text=Interesting%20Facts%20About%20Cyber%20Attacks%202022" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">reports show</a>.&nbsp;</p>
<p>In this landscape, artificial intelligence (AI) emerges as a powerful ally in the battle against cyber threats. Leveraging AI for cybersecurity holds the promise of revolutionizing defense strategies and enabling more proactive and efficient protection against malicious activities.</p>
<p>This guide delves into the realm of AI-powered cybersecurity solutions, exploring their potential benefits and practical applications. From eliminating manual tasks to accelerating threat detection, this article outlines key takeaways that shed light on the transformative impact of AI in safeguarding digital assets.</p>
<p>Key Takeaways: Here are the key things you need to know about AI-powered cybersecurity solutions:</p>
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>AI streamlines manual tasks and enhances overall efficiency.</li>
<li>AI simplifies complex cybersecurity practices, benefiting small IT teams and non-experts.</li>
<li>AI accelerates threat detection and response, bolstering cybersecurity efforts.</li>
<li>AI-driven anomaly detection enhances proactive defense strategies.</li>
<li>AI's continuous learning improves adaptive threat mitigation.</li>
</ul>
<p>[Table of Contents]</p>
<p><a href="#potentialbenefits" rel="follow">The Potential Benefits of Using AI for Cybersecurity</a><br><a href="#5effective" rel="follow">5 Effective AI Cybersecurity Solutions</a><br><a href="#realworld" rel="follow">Real-World Examples of AI Cybersecurity Solutions</a><br><a href="#potentialchallenges" rel="follow">Potential Challenges of Using AI for Cybersecurity</a></p>
<h2 id="potentialbenefits">The Potential Benefits of Using AI for Cybersecurity</h2>
<h3>#1. Eliminates Tedious Manual Tasks</h3>
<p>Manual cybersecurity tasks are time-consuming and prone to human error. With the implementation of AI, routine activities like log analysis, patch management, and vulnerability assessments can be automated. This frees up security professionals to focus on more strategic and creative tasks, improving overall efficiency and reducing the risk of oversight. For instance, AI-driven tools can continuously monitor network traffic, identifying unusual patterns that might indicate a breach or unauthorized access.</p>
<h3>#2. Simplifies Complex Cybersecurity Practices</h3>
<p>Cybersecurity is intricate, often requiring a deep understanding of various technologies and threat landscapes. Small IT teams or those without extensive cybersecurity expertise can find it challenging to keep up. AI steps in as a knowledgeable assistant, offering threat intelligence and insights that simplify complex concepts. It can provide recommendations for security configurations and policies tailored to an organization's specific needs, helping bridge the knowledge gap and ensuring effective protection. It could also help teach <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/cybersecurity-best-practices-for-employees" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">best practices for employees</a>.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>#3. Helps to Uncover &amp; Mitigate Threats Faster</h3>
<p>One of the most significant advantages of AI in cybersecurity is its ability to rapidly identify and respond to threats. Traditional methods of threat detection often involve manual monitoring and analysis, which can delay response times. AI-powered solutions, on the other hand, can analyze vast amounts of data in real-time, identifying anomalies and potential breaches with remarkable speed. For example, AI algorithms can detect unusual user behavior, such as an employee accessing sensitive data at an unusual time, prompting an immediate investigation.</p>
<h3>#4. Enhances Adaptive Threat Mitigation</h3>
<p>The fourth benefit delves into the concept of adaptive threat mitigation. Unlike traditional security systems that rely on fixed rule sets, AI continuously learns and evolves based on new data and patterns. This adaptability enables AI to anticipate emerging threats that might evade conventional defenses. For instance, AI algorithms can identify subtle changes in malware patterns and behaviors, enabling quicker adjustments to counter new attack vectors.</p>
<h3>#5. Proactive Defense Through Anomaly Detection</h3>
<p>Beyond its role in incident response, AI also plays a vital role in proactive defense by identifying anomalies that might go unnoticed by human operators. Anomalous activities, such as unauthorized access attempts or unusual data transfers, can be swiftly flagged by AI systems. By baselining normal behavior and recognizing deviations, AI can significantly reduce the time taken to detect and respond to potential threats.</p>
<h2 id="5effective">5 Effective AI Cybersecurity Solutions:</h2>
<p>In the rapidly evolving landscape of cybersecurity, AI-powered solutions are emerging as indispensable tools to thwart <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/10-cyberattacks-recently-used-by-hackers-2023" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">evolving digital threats</a>. Here, we explore five impactful AI cybersecurity solutions that are reshaping the way organizations defend against cyberattacks.</p>
<h3>#1. Automated Incident Response</h3>
<p>Automated incident response is a crucial aspect of cybersecurity, as it ensures swift actions are taken to contain and mitigate the impact of security breaches. AI plays a pivotal role by rapidly identifying and categorizing potential incidents. Machine learning algorithms can analyze patterns and historical data to determine the severity of an incident, trigger appropriate responses, and even suggest remediation steps. This real-time capability significantly reduces the response time, limiting potential damage.</p>
<h3>#2. Faster Threat Detection</h3>
<p>Threat detection is the foundation of effective cybersecurity. AI enhances this process by scrutinizing immense volumes of data, such as network logs, user behavior, and application activities, in real-time. Machine learning algorithms can detect unusual patterns and behaviors that might indicate a breach, even when such activities might be imperceptible to human analysts. This leads to quicker identification of potential threats, allowing security teams to respond promptly.</p>
<h3>#3. Continuous Monitoring</h3>
<p>Cyber threats can emerge at any time, making continuous monitoring a critical requirement. AI-driven solutions excel in this aspect, as they can tirelessly monitor vast networks and systems 24/7 without fatigue. This proactive approach ensures that potential vulnerabilities and breaches are detected and addressed in their early stages, reducing the risk of prolonged exposure and data loss.</p>
<h3>#4. Task Automation</h3>
<p>The realm of cybersecurity involves a plethora of manual tasks, from software patching to vulnerability assessments. AI excels in automating these repetitive processes, ensuring that critical tasks are executed consistently and accurately. This reduces human error and enables security professionals to focus on strategic activities that require human expertise, such as threat analysis and response planning.</p>
<h3>#5. Endpoint Protection</h3>
<p>Endpoints, such as computers, smartphones, and IoT devices, are often the entry points for cyberattacks. AI-powered endpoint protection solutions use behavioral analysis to identify abnormal activities on devices. They can detect malware, phishing attempts, and unauthorized access by analyzing patterns of usage. This proactive defense mechanism prevents threats from infiltrating the network through vulnerable endpoints.</p>
<h2 id="realworld">Real-World Examples of AI Cybersecurity Solutions:</h2>
<p>Several companies are at the forefront of delivering AI-powered cybersecurity solutions. One notable example is <a href="https://www.crowdstrike.com/falcon-platform/artificial-intelligence-and-machine-learning/" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">CrowdStrike</a>, which offers a cloud-native platform that utilizes AI and machine learning for threat detection and response. The platform's Falcon AI identifies threats in real-time by analyzing behavioral data across endpoints, enabling organizations to swiftly mitigate risks.</p>
<h2 id="potentialchallenges">Potential Challenges of Using AI for Cybersecurity:</h2>
<p>While AI offers immense potential for bolstering cybersecurity defenses, it's not without its challenges. Let's explore three key hurdles that organizations may face:</p>
<h3>#1. Evolving Threat Landscape</h3>
<p>The cyber threat landscape is constantly evolving, with attackers adopting sophisticated tactics to bypass defenses. AI models may struggle to keep up with rapidly changing attack vectors, potentially leading to false positives or negatives. Ongoing AI model updates and human oversight are necessary to ensure accuracy.</p>
<h3>#2. Data Privacy Concerns</h3>
<p>AI-driven cybersecurity solutions rely on vast amounts of data for training and analysis. However, handling sensitive data raises concerns about privacy and compliance. Striking a balance between effective threat detection and respecting user privacy is a delicate challenge that organizations must navigate.</p>
<h3>#3. Adversarial Attacks</h3>
<p>Adversarial attacks involve manipulating AI models by feeding them malicious data crafted to exploit vulnerabilities in the model's decision-making process. These attacks can lead to incorrect threat assessments and undermine the trustworthiness of AI-powered defenses. Developing robust models that are resistant to such attacks requires ongoing research and innovation.</p>
<h2>Improve Your Cybersecurity With TeamPassword</h2>
<p>Regardless of the safety - or threats - that AI offers to cybersecurity, your organization needs a password manager. If you need a shared password vault with a low barrier to entry, no-frills interface, and white-glove customer support, <a href="https://app.teampassword.com/signup" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">give TeamPassword a try for free</a>.&nbsp;</p>
<p></p>

AI cybersecurity solutions are growing in number, helping companies boost their IT security posture. Learn more about how AI can improve cybersecurity here.

AI cybersecurity solutions are growing in number, helping companies boost their IT security posture. Learn more about how ...

AI Cybersecurity Solutions: 4 Ways AI Can Improve Security

AI Cybersecurity Solutions: 5 Ways AI Can Improve Security

<p>In the digital age, our brains are flooded with passwords. The average person is estimated to hold <a href="https://webtribunal.net/blog/password-stats/#gref" data-gc-link="https://webtribunal.net/blog/password-stats/#gref">34 active passwords</a>! If you consider this in combination with the login info we need at work, that number jumps significantly. Even with a great memory, no one should have to memorize all those numbers and symbols.</p>
<p>You never want to compromise security for memorability. While '123456' is easy to remember, it's also easy to guess. As our passwords get more complicated, we need a secure and accessible place to store them. Enter password managers.</p>
<p>Password managers have become an increasingly popular way to keep login info secure. With many helpful features that keep your passwords stored away safely while still being accessible to you and your whole team, you'll never have to worry about the security of your various accounts.</p>
<p>With so many password managers on the market, it's hard to know which one is best for you or your company. Fortunately, we've got you covered! We've compiled an in-depth comparison between the top passwords available so you'll have all the information you&rsquo;ll need to choose the best option for you.</p>
<p>In this article, we'll look at Dashlane, 1Password, and TeamPassword. Each manager has different strengths and weaknesses. What's good for personal use may not be the best fit for a business. With our side-by-side comparison, you'll be able to review the different features of each password manager and find what suits your needs.</p>
<p>[Table of Contents]</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="#overview" rel="follow">Features Overview</a></li>
<li><a href="#commonfeatures" rel="follow">Common Features</a></li>
<li><a href="#unique" rel="follow">Unique Features</a></li>
<li><a href="#sharing" rel="follow">Sharing Capabilities</a></li>
<li><a href="#security" rel="follow">Security</a></li>
<li><a href="#compatibility" rel="follow">Device Compatibility</a></li>
<li><a href="#pricing" rel="follow">Pricing</a></li>
</ul>
<h2 id="overview">Features Overview</h2>
<p style="text-align: center;"></p>
<h3><img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/zhKJXvuoRnCfZfhEJpXL" alt="undefined" width="828" height="828" class="butter-float-left"></h3>
<h3></h3>
<h3></h3>
<h3></h3>
<h3></h3>
<h3></h3>
<h3></h3>
<h3></h3>
<h3></h3>
<h3></h3>
<h3></h3>
<h3></h3>
<h3></h3>
<h3></h3>
<h3></h3>
<h3></h3>
<h3></h3>
<h3></h3>
<h3></h3>
<h3></h3>
<h3></h3>
<h3></h3>
<h3></h3>
<h3>Dashlane Features</h3>
<p><img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/CnbgbwGJQOJQp93mDiNg" alt="Dashlane Homepage.webp" width="607" height="257" class="butter-float-left"></p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Dashlane brands itself as a "security-first password manager." Dark web monitoring and high-scoring encryption have protected the software from ever being breached. It includes an array of helpful features including on-the-go access, unlimited sharing, and a unique password generator.</p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">1Password Features</h3>
<p><img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/sysUqVPQqK2FVFjIEmLg" alt="1Password Homepage.webp" width="608" height="279" class="butter-float-left"></p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p>1Password is simple and accessible. It is a strong choice for those looking for a personal-use password manager but has less comprehensive options for teams and businesses. It scores high on encryption, using Watchtower to alert you of suspicious activity.</p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">TeamPassword Features</h3>
<p><a href="https://teampassword.com/" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank"><img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/rpPzMTSMyzMUwfJKVwwH" alt="TeamPassword Homepage.webp" width="608" height="253" class="butter-float-left"></a></p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p>TeamPassword prides itself on being the password manager built for teams and businesses. TeamPassword is arguably the most business-friendly of the three, with affordable rates and easy sharing capabilities. Its features include: a favorites list, automated reminders to update records and refresh passwords, and access to Google single sign-on. It has been voted one of the most user-friendly password managers for businesses.</p>
<h2 id="commonfeatures">Common Features</h2>
<p>Before we break down how each password manager is different, let's look at what they all have in common! Sometimes companies advertise certain features as if they're unique to their product, when in fact that feature is part of the industry standard. That's why it's important to know what's shared between password managers before you pick one.</p>
<h3>Common features of Dashlane, 1Password and Team Password:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Custom Groups for Team Organization</li>
<li>Two-Factor Authentication</li>
<li>Group Sharing</li>
<li>Password Generator</li>
</ul>
<p>Whichever password manager you choose, you can expect these helpful features! Keep in mind that while these features are shared among the different products, they will differ in how they operate based on the company.</p>
<h2 id="unique">Unique Features</h2>
<h3>Dashlane Unique Features</h3>
<p>Dashlane has a few features that aren't offered by the competition. Unlike 1Password and TeamPassword, Dashlane allows you to change all of your passwords with just one click. Other unique features include a public wi-fi VPN, advanced reporting, enterprise mass deployment and identity theft protection</p>
<h3>1Password Unique Features</h3>
<p>1Password's most significant unique feature is Travel Mode. Once you leave your local network, your data becomes more vulnerable. This risk increases when you cross national borders. 1Password allows you to choose which vaults you'd like to make accessible when you travel. That way, when you turn on Travel Mode, only vaults marked travel safe will be available to you and other vaults will have an added layer of security.</p>
<h3>TeamPassword Unique Features</h3>
<p>Unlike Dashlane and 1Password, TeamPassword is specifically built for teams, and unlike its competitors, TeamPassword prioritizes simplicity. This platform allows you to build an unlimited number of groups to easily share passwords with a small subset of collaborators or your entire team. This can be done in just a couple of clicks and is so intuitive that password management is one training you won't need to add to your onboarding process. TeamPassword's interface is designed to store information for many groups in one secure location.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Usability</p>
<h3>Dashlane Usability</h3>
<p>Dashlane features an elegant user interface. Like its competitors, it has many features that prioritize security like breach notifications and dark web insight alerts making it a multi-skilled platform.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>1Password Usability&nbsp;</h3>
<p>1Password scores high on usability because of its many options. and changes can be made quickly without sacrificing security. However, users have criticized its complexity, meaning it may not be the answer for regular basic use.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>TeamPassword Usability&nbsp;</h3>
<p>TeamPassword has worked hard to create an intuitive UI experience that every user will love. Extensive <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/using-first-click-testing-to-improve-ux-for-teampassword-mobile" data-gc-link="https://teampassword.com/blog/using-first-click-testing-to-improve-ux-for-teampassword-mobile">testing</a> has gone into TeamPassword's platform to ensure that managing your business' login info is as efficient and enjoyable as possible. Furthermore, TeamPassword has live customer support and routinely surveys its users to better meet their needs.</p>
<h2 id="sharing">Sharing Capabilities</h2>
<h3>Dashlane Password Sharing</h3>
<p>Dashlane sharing enables users to share multiple passwords with multiple people using sharing groups. However, users must have a Dashlane account.</p>
<h3>1Password Password Sharing</h3>
<p>With 1Password, sharing is an easily accessible feature. You can share your passwords with anyone regardless of if they have an account.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>TeamPassword Password Sharing</h3>
<p>Quite simply, TeamPassword was built for sharing. With TeamPassword, your organization is made up of groups of records. Typically, these Groups are attached to a department (Marketing, Sales, Billing) or projects (iOS Dev Team). Users can be added and removed from the Groups with a couple of clicks. Users can also add a record they've made to one or multiple Groups. However, like Dashlane, users must have an account in order to share passwords.&nbsp;</p>
<h2 id="security">Security</h2>
<h3>Dashlane Security Features</h3>
<p>Dashlane uses AES-256 encryption to securely transfer your data to its servers. They use dark web monitoring to prevent threats to your data. They also have a VPN Wi-Fi feature that keeps your information safe when you're on the go.</p>
<h3>1Password Security Features</h3>
<p>1Password also uses AES-256 encryption but instead of dark web monitoring, they use Watchtower, which alerts users of potential threats. 1Password uses end-to-end encryption so only you have access to your password information.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>TeamPassword Security Features</h3>
<p>TeamPassword uses, you guessed it, AES-256 encryption! Google Single Sign-on is available to all users regardless of the size of your plan. This makes it easier for admins to manage users and for users to log in. TeamPassword uses backend fraud analytics to detect and block suspicious activity. Its platform features built-in audit tools for admins that enables them to see which members have accessed, edited, and removed which records. Admins can also make two-factor authentication mandatory across the organization.</p>
<h2 id="compatibility">Device Compatibility</h2>
<p>When it comes to device compatibility, these three password managers match up evenly.</p>
<p>Dashlane, 1Password and TeamPassword are compatible with Windows and Mac OS. They all have a mobile app that is compatible with both iPhone and Android. All of them are also available as web browser apps, for faster access.</p>
<h2 id="pricing">Pricing</h2>
<p>All three password managers have great features but, when it comes down to it, price is going to place a huge role in which one is right for you.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Dashlane Pricing</p>
<ul>
<li>$0 to $8.99 per month per user</li>
<li>Team plan: $5 per month per user</li>
<li>Business: $8 per month per user</li>
</ul>
<h3>1Password Pricing</h3>
<ul>
<li>$2.99 to $7.99 per user per month</li>
<li>Teams Plan: $19.95 per month</li>
<li>Business Plan: $7.99 per month per user</li>
</ul>
<h3>TeamPassword Pricing</h3>
<ul>
<li>$1.66 to $7.60 per user per month</li>
</ul>
<p>Of all the ways Dashlane, 1Password and TeamPassword differ, the price may be the most significant. Dashlane and 1Password offer similar price points across the board but their value will depend on your priorities. Dashlane is the only manager that offers a free version of its product, however, it has limited capabilities. This has little value for businesses.</p>
<p>TeamPassword is in a tier of its own. For the first 6 months, TeamPassword offers its yearly plans for just $1.66 per month per user. After six months, the cost rises to $4.16 per month per user, which is still less than the competition.</p>
<h2>Get Started with TeamPassword</h2>
<p>Each password manager has distinct strengths and weaknesses. Dashlane has an extensive list of features. 1Password has a refined user interface for administrative control. TeamPassword is the most affordable and is the only password manager of the three that is built specifically with teams and businesses in mind.</p>
<p>Only you can decide which password manager is the best option for you. Hopefully, you now have the knowledge and tools you need to find the platform that properly suits your needs!</p>
<p>Still not convinced you need a password manager at your company? Find out the <a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/seven-signs-you-need-a-password-manager" data-gc-link="https://teampassword.com/blog/seven-signs-you-need-a-password-manager">seven signs</a> you do on the TeamPassword Blog.&nbsp;</p>

An in-depth comparison of 3 password managers Dashlane vs 1Password vs TeamPassword. Decide for yourself which is best!

An in-depth comparison of 3 password managers, Dashlane vs 1Password vs TeamPassword. Learn about their pros and cons ...

Dashlane vs 1Password | A 2023 Comparison With Competitors

An in-depth comparison of 3 password managers, Dashlane vs 1Password vs TeamPassword. Learn about their pros and cons and decide for yourself which is best!

<p>Whether you run your own firm or work in-house, you're at high risk of cyber attack as an accountant. After all, you work with critical financial data daily that's desired by bad actors. Other factors, such as remote work and a boost in the use of cloud technology are muddying the cybersecurity waters even further.</p>
<p>A <a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://www.slideshare.net/DeloitteUS/almost-half-of-executives-expect-a-rise-in-cyber-events-targeting-accounting-and-financial-data-in-year-ahead" href="https://www.slideshare.net/DeloitteUS/almost-half-of-executives-expect-a-rise-in-cyber-events-targeting-accounting-and-financial-data-in-year-ahead">recent poll</a> by Deloitte found that almost half of executives expect the number and size of cyber events targeting accounting and financial data to increase in 2023. This comes after a staggering 300% increase in <a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://www.accountingtoday.com/opinion/the-rise-of-cybercrime-in-the-accounting-profession-continues" href="https://www.accountingtoday.com/opinion/the-rise-of-cybercrime-in-the-accounting-profession-continues">cyberattacks</a> that occurred in 2020 due to the pandemic.</p>
<p>The best way forward is to keep your accounting data under lock and key. In this guide, we dive into the basics of cybersecurity for accountants, so you can safeguard your data and protect your clients.</p>
<p>Before we get started, here are the five key things you should know:<em><br></em></p>
<ul>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1">Accountants access and use large volumes of financial and customer data making them a common target for cybersecurity threats.</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1">There are many types of data at risk in accounting firms or departments, including bank account numbers, tax records, and credit card information.</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1">Common accounting cybersecurity risks range from data breaches and phishing to ransomware and data misuse.</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1">To protect your critical data, there are various best practices to follow, such as implementing data backups and developing a cybersecurity strategy.</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1">Using a password management tool like TeamPassword is a simple way to protect your critical accounting data from security threats.</li>
</ul>
<h3>[Table of Contents]</h3>
<ul>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><a href="#Whyconcerned" rel="follow">Why Should Accountants Be Concerned With Cybersecurity?</a></li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><a href="#what%20are%20risks" rel="follow">What Are the Cyber Risks for Accounting Firms?</a></li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><a href="#safeguard" rel="follow">Cybersecurity for Accountants: 7 Ways to Safeguard Your Data</a></li>
</ul>
<p><img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/mD7pZpF7QOeSi1zKzfMU" alt="undefined"></p>
<h2 id="Whyconcerned">Why Should Accountants Be Concerned With Cybersecurity?</h2>
<p>As technology expands, cyber threats follow suit, making <a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://teampassword.com/blog/cybersecurity-for-startups" href="https://teampassword.com/blog/cybersecurity-for-startups">cybersecurity</a> a necessity. This is especially true for accountants, who must access, use, and manage large volumes of financial data.</p>
<p>Cybersecurity events of any kind can be detrimental to your organization. For example, a data breach can lead to severe financial loss. According to <a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://www.ibm.com/reports/data-breach" href="https://www.ibm.com/reports/data-breach">IBM</a>, the average cost of a data breach in 2023 is $4.45 million in the US. Other potential losses include reputational damage that could prevent the growth of your organization.</p>
<p>These events not only threaten to harm your business; financial or other personally identifiable information (PII) falling into the wrong hands can lead to many consequences for your clients too. For example, clients could become victims of identity theft or suffer financial loss from leaked social security or bank account numbers.</p>
<p>Rest assured, it's not all doom and gloom. Putting a <a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://teampassword.com/blog/10-easy-cybersecurity-strategies-for-small-businesses" href="https://teampassword.com/blog/10-easy-cybersecurity-strategies-for-small-businesses">cybersecurity strategy</a> in place can help you prevent these consequences and protect everyone involved.</p>
<h3>Types of Accounting Data at Risk</h3>
<p>Protecting your data requires you to understand the types of data at risk. In accounting specifically, there are many critical data types, including:</p>
<ul>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1">Bank account numbers</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1">Tax records</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1">Client demographics (name, date of birth, address, etc.)</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1">Social security numbers (SSN)</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1">Credit card and payment information</li>
</ul>
<p>Of course, various data types are at risk across all industries, including passwords, emails, employee files, and beyond.</p>
<h2 id="what are risks">What Are the Cyber Risks for Accounting Firms?</h2>
<p>Accounting firms and organizations face a wide range of <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">cybersecurity risks</a> that threaten their critical data. Some of these risks include:</p>
<ul>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><strong>Data breaches: </strong>A data breach occurs when an unauthorized individual gains access to sensitive data. These breaches may happen due to hackers trying to steal data or by mistake. For example, an employee may accidentally share a confidential document.</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><strong>Phishing: </strong>Phishing occurs when a cybercriminal pretends to be another entity to try and get personal or financial information. For example, they may pose as a bank looking for financial information about a client. Phishing can happen via phone, email, or even text message.</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><strong>Ransomware: </strong>Ransomware is a type of malware used by cybercriminals to hold your data for ransom. This often happens after clicking a suspicious email link or visiting a website infected with ransomware.</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><strong>Data misuse: </strong>Some threats happen simply due to the misuse of data. For example, data may be stored improperly or there may be a lack of access control for critical files.</li>
</ul>
<p><img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/jbfmW7yKTmihXnMYM6La" alt="undefined"></p>
<h2 id="safeguard">Cybersecurity for Accountants: 7 Ways to Safeguard Your Data</h2>
<p>To protect your critical accounting data from the above risks, there are several <a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://teampassword.com/blog/small-business-cybersecurity-checklist" href="https://teampassword.com/blog/small-business-cybersecurity-checklist">cybersecurity best practices</a> to put into place. And luckily, you can take many of these steps today.</p>
<h3>#1. Know Your Risks</h3>
<p>How can you prevent accounting cybersecurity risks when you're not sure what they are? The first step in securing your data is performing a risk assessment. This assessment will help you pinpoint the specific risks threatening your organization so you can take the necessary action to eliminate them.</p>
<p>To get started with a <a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://teampassword.com/blog/what-is-a-security-audit-and-does-my-business-need-one" href="https://teampassword.com/blog/what-is-a-security-audit-and-does-my-business-need-one">risk assessment</a>, take inventory of the devices and services you use to access and store data. Do a thorough review of these devices and services to pinpoint security risks. Then, determine your next steps based on which risks should be mitigated first.</p>
<h3>#2. Backup Your Data</h3>
<p>Data backups ensure your organization can continue serving your clients in the event of a breach or other security incident. In its simplest form, a data backup is simply a copy of all of your critical data. If something happens to your primary dataset, you'll still have access through your backup.</p>
<p>To get started, most experts recommend the <a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://www.uschamber.com/co/run/technology/3-2-1-backup-rule" href="https://www.uschamber.com/co/run/technology/3-2-1-backup-rule">3-2-1 rule</a> for backups. This means you should:</p>
<ul>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1">Have <strong><em>one</em></strong> primary backup and <strong><em>two</em></strong> copies of your data.</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1">Save backups to<strong><em> two </em></strong>different media types.</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1">Keep <strong><em>one</em></strong> backup file in another location.</li>
</ul>
<h3>#3. Enable Data Encryption</h3>
<p>While the devices and services you use to access data are probably password-protected, that's simply not enough. For iron-clad data security, you must implement data encryption.</p>
<p>With encryption, even if an authorized individual were to get through using your password, they would be unable to read the "encrypted" data. Many apps, services, and devices include some level of encryption. However, it's best to reach out to a cybersecurity professional who can ensure your data is protected.</p>
<h3>#4. Use Email Safely</h3>
<p>It's a common practice for accountants to use email to communicate with colleagues and clients. While convenient, email comes with its own security challenges. For example, email inboxes are common targets for phishing scams and malware.</p>
<p>It's important to use email safely by following these best practices:</p>
<ul>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1">Don't click suspicious links or open attachments from unknown senders.</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1">Avoid sending out sensitive information (such as bank account numbers or social security numbers) via email.</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1">Log out of your email after every session (a <a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://teampassword.com/blog/best-password-managers-for-teams" href="https://teampassword.com/blog/best-password-managers-for-teams">password manager</a> makes this less of a pain).</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1">Use a spam filter to push suspicious emails out of your inbox.</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1">Don't use your personal email for business, and vice versa.</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1">Change your email password regularly (every three months at least).</li>
</ul>
<h3>#5. Share Files Appropriately</h3>
<p>Accounting requires numerous different types of files, from tax returns to balance sheets. Often, these documents must be shared between clients and colleagues. To avoid these documents being accessed by the wrong party, it's important to share them appropriately.</p>
<p>Use a secure file-sharing service that offers security features such as end-to-end encryption and access control. And for highly sensitive files, consider password-protecting them before you share.</p>
<h3>#6. Create a Cybersecurity Strategy</h3>
<p>A cybersecurity strategy outlines how your accounting team or firm secures its data and how you'll respond to security incidents when they occur. Having a clear strategy in place ensures all the necessary steps are followed in the event of a breach. Plus, it keeps all stakeholders on the same page, from threat detection to mitigation.</p>
<p>When developing your cybersecurity strategy, there are several components to include. Some of these components are as follows:</p>
<ul>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1">Inventory of devices, apps, and services</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1">Risk assessment</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1">Data privacy policy</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1">Acceptable use policy</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1">Security incident response plan</li>
</ul>
<p><em>Want to learn more about cybersecurity strategy? Check out the </em><a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://us.aicpa.org/interestareas/frc/assuranceadvisoryservices/cyber-security-resource-center" href="https://us.aicpa.org/interestareas/frc/assuranceadvisoryservices/cyber-security-resource-center"><em>Cybersecurity Resource Center</em></a><em> offered by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants.</em></p>
<h3>#7. Improve Your Password Hygiene</h3>
<p>Passwords are the first line of defense when protecting your critical data. That's why it's important to follow these password best practices:</p>
<ul>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><strong>Use strong passwords: </strong>Avoid using easy-to-guess words and phrases such as your name and birthdate. Instead, <a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://teampassword.com/password-generator" href="https://teampassword.com/password-generator">create passwords</a> that are at least 12 characters long using a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters.</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><strong>Update passwords regularly: </strong>Update those strong passwords at least every three months for the best protection.</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><strong>Use two-factor authentication (2FA): </strong>Two-factor authentication (2FA) requires a second factor for access, such as a passcode, in addition to your password. Using <a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://teampassword.com/blog/maximize-security-with-2fa" href="https://teampassword.com/blog/maximize-security-with-2fa">2FA</a>, if your password was compromised, the individual would also need to have the second factor to gain access to your data.</li>
<li data-gc-list-style="bullet" data-gc-list-depth="1"><strong>Implement a password manager: </strong>For the best protection, use a <a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://teampassword.com/blog/what-is-password-management" href="https://teampassword.com/blog/what-is-password-management">password manager</a> to keep your passwords secure. <a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://teampassword.com/features" href="https://teampassword.com/features">TeamPassword</a> allows you to securely share passwords with your team while reaping the security benefits of robust <a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://teampassword.com/security" href="https://teampassword.com/security">access control</a>. Using a password manager, all of your passwords are stored in one centralized location&mdash;no risky spreadsheets required.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Manage &amp; Share Passwords Safely With TeamPassword</h2>
<p>Taking the above steps will help you protect your critical accounting data. And if you're ready to get started quickly, implementing a password manager is an excellent first step.</p>
<p>TeamPassword was built for teams who want to store and share passwords securely. We can help you in protecting your most valuable assets through access control, password generation, two-factor authentication (2FA), and more. <a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-gc-link="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard?_gl=1*12l6f5j*_gcl_au*MTIzMDk3OTY2Ny4xNjg1OTcxMjM2#signup/testimonial" href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard?_gl=1*12l6f5j*_gcl_au*MTIzMDk3OTY2Ny4xNjg1OTcxMjM2#signup/testimonial">Sign-up for TeamPassword</a> to get started!</p>

Accountants use and store critical financial data. Learn how to safeguard that data with this cybersecurity guide for accountants. Find out!

Accountants use and store critical financial data. Learn how to safeguard that data with this guide focused on ...

Cybersecurity for Accountants: How to Safeguard Data

Accountants use and store critical financial data. Learn how to safeguard that data with this guide focused on cybersecurity for accountants. Check it out!

Cybersecurity for Accountants: How to Safeguard Your Data

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">We love Google. It can be used daily to search, email, store, and share documents and keep our lives in and outside of work more organized. Honestly, how did we ever function without it?</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">For a company that has no system in place to keep track of their passwords, then Google Sheets is a great place to start. It allows you to separate, label, and categorize, plus it autosaves your work. It giv</span><span style="font-weight: 400;">es some level of access control as to who can view, edit, and comment on a document. It's free, and almost everyone is already using it.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">[Table of Contents]</span></p>
<ul>
<li><a href="#issheetssecure" rel="follow"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Is Google Sheets Secure?</span></a></li>
<li><a href="#whynotsheets" rel="follow"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Why You Should Not Store Passwords in Google Sheets</span></a>
<ul>
<li><a href="#security" rel="follow"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Security</span></a></li>
<li><a href="#operations" rel="follow"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Operations</span></a></li>
<li><a href="#convenience" rel="follow"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Convenience</span></a></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h2 id="issheetssecure">Is Google Sheets Secure?</h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The question of Google Sheet's security often arises due to the sensitive data that users might store within these sheets. Let's delve into whether Google Sheets is secure or not, along with supporting reasons for both sides.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ways Google Sheets is secure:</span></p>
<p>1. Data Encryption: Google Sheets employs strong encryption protocols to protect your data while it's being transferred and stored on their servers. This helps ensure that unauthorized parties cannot easily access your information.</p>
<p>2. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Google offers 2FA, an additional layer of security that requires you to provide a second form of verification, usually a code sent to your phone, when logging into your account. This prevents unauthorized access even if your password is compromised.</p>
<p>3. Access Controls: Google Sheets provides you with granular control over who can access your documents. You can share sheets with specific individuals, granting them view or edit permissions, or keep them entirely private.</p>
<p>Ways Google Sheets is not secure:</p>
<p>1. Data Breaches: While Google has stringent security measures in place, no system is entirely immune to data breaches. There have been instances of high-profile breaches affecting various Google services, raising concerns about the safety of stored data.</p>
<p>2. Third-Party Add-ons: Google Sheets allows third-party add-ons that can sometimes access your data. While Google vets these add-ons to some extent, there's still a possibility that a malicious add-on could compromise your data's security.</p>
<p>3. Account Compromise: If your Google account is compromised, unauthorized individuals could potentially gain access to your Google Sheets. This is why it's crucial to maintain a strong, unique password and enable 2FA.</p>
<p></p>
<h2 id="whynotsheets">Why You Should Not Store Passwords in Google Sheets&nbsp;</h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">There are three main areas of concern when Google Sheets becomes the sole keeper of your passwords.</span></p>
<h3 id="security">#1. Security</h3>
<blockquote>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The fact that you've taken the initiative to create an access-restricted spreadsheet shows that you are aware of the need to be secure and have taken steps to ensure that. Whilst Google Sheets is more reliable than sticky notes or Excel spreadsheets, things can get complicated quickly when you start using a Google spreadsheet for highly sensitive or work-related passwords. As soon as you hire someone who doesn't need access to everything &mdash; or fire someone who had access to everything, then that's when a safety hazard occurs.</span></p>
</blockquote>
<h3 id="operations">#2. Operations</h3>
<blockquote>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If you don&rsquo;t want everyone to have total control over the Google Spreadsheet, you'll need to create different spreadsheets for different accounts to control who can read/write each spreadsheet. You may want to give someone "view only" access, but when their job requires them to create a new account for the company, they'll have to find the document's owner to update that login information in the spreadsheet. Giving everyone editing access exposes the spreadsheet and the sensitive data it keeps to human error and malicious opportunities.</span></p>
</blockquote>
<h3 id="convenience">#3. Convenience</h3>
<blockquote>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Having multiple spreadsheets with different security levels requires more management and more time to maintain &mdash; valuable time that you could apply to your role.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Once you start managing clients' information, you open a door that'll lead to more complications. Clients trust that their information is being correctly handled and securely stored. To ensure accountability, you're going to need better processes in place.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/n08yKOIWRpyyDu2o66WX" alt="undefined" width="601" height="338" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"></span></p>
</blockquote>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">These are just a few examples of situations where using a Google spreadsheet is inefficient and inconvenient. A password manager like TeamPassword can vastly improve your company's security processes, increase efficiency, and step-up security. TeamPassword lets you easily create groups to manage who has access to what, write detailed labels to distinguish accounts used by several clients, and quickly onboard new employees and clients by giving or removing access in just a few clicks. Our</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span><a href="https://teampassword.com/features"><span style="font-weight: 400;">browser extensions</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">allow you to access all your login information right in your browser window without interrupting your workflow.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ready to step up your data security? See why TeamPassword is your best option to securely store and share your passwords by starting </span><a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard?utm_source=blog&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=bcms#signup/testimonial"><span style="font-weight: 400;">our free 14-day trial </span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">today!</span></p>

We love Google. But there are three main areas of concern when Google Sheets becomes the sole keeper of your passwords.

We love Google. But there are three main areas of concern when Google Sheets becomes the sole keeper ...

Is Google Sheets Secure | Dangers of Storing Sensitive Data

We love Google. But there are three main areas of concern when Google Sheets becomes the sole keeper of your passwords. A password manager like TeamPassword can vastly improve your company's security processes, increase efficiency, and step-up security.

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">While there is no hard and fast rule, experts agree that it is best practice to change your passwords every 90 days. Yup, every 90. If the very thought of going through each and every one of your 127 passwords and updating them every 90 days makes you want to click off this article - don&rsquo;t.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">With a little knowledge, this tedious task can be made easier and safer. We&rsquo;ll also share why it&rsquo;s an essential part of securing your accounts and that it's:</span></p>
<ol>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Worth your time, and</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Not as overwhelming as it seems if you&rsquo;re using the right tools</span></li>
</ol>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Aside from learning to spot </span><a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/your-passwords-are-only-as-secure-as-your-teams" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">social engineering attacks</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, regularly changing your passwords is one of the easiest actions you can take to minimize the probability of being hacked.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">[Table of Contents]</span></p>
<ul>
<li><a href="#why" rel="follow"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Why should I Change My Password?</span></a></li>
<li><a href="#specialoccurrences" rel="follow"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Special Occurrences That Should Prompt a Password Change</span></a></li>
<li><a href="#how" rel="follow"><span style="font-weight: 400;">How to change your passwords</span></a></li>
<li><a href="#what" rel="follow"><span style="font-weight: 400;">What is a password manager?</span></a></li>
</ul>
<h2 id="why">Why Should I Change My Password?&nbsp;</h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Does changing my password really make a difference?&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Statistics from 2019 found that over 1 million passwords are stolen every week, and that number has only increased during the pandemic. Today, there are over </span><a href="https://www.securitymagazine.com/articles/97825-24-billion-usernames-passwords-available-on-the-dark-web#:~:text=There%20are%20more%20than%2024,to%20new%20Digital%20Shadows%20research." rel="follow noopener" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">24 billion username and password combinations available on the dark web</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Changing your passwords absolutely makes a difference in keeping your accounts safe, provided they&rsquo;re strong. Some stolen passwords are exploited right away, but others are leveraged months later. Changing your password could foil months of a cybercriminal&rsquo;s work, which may lead to them focusing their attention on lower-hanging fruit.</span></p>
<h3><span style="font-weight: 400;">Are my accounts more secure the more I change my password?</span></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Yes, and no. Provided you are using randomly generated or unique passwords of 12+ characters with symbols and numbers, then updating your most valuable accounts frequently absolutely keeps your accounts more secure.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Frequent, scheduled password changes are only an issue when the task is thrust upon an uneducated employee who hasn&rsquo;t been given the right tools for the job.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Most software solutions that mandate frequent password changes are rendered virtually useless by not giving the user the proper tools. People feel annoyed at being forced to change and memorize a new password, and often game the system, first adding a 1, then a !, then a 2 etc. I was certainly guilty of this at past jobs.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Requiring people to change their passwords without providing a password manager (more on this below) irritates people and does little to bolster your company&rsquo;s security.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Cybersecurity exists on a spectrum: convenient and frictionless on one end, and security on the other. In a perfect world you would change your password every day, but the cost/benefit analysis buckles when you realize that a program like </span><a href="https://www.zdnet.com/article/following-oldsmar-attack-fbi-warns-about-using-teamviewer-and-windows-7/" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">TeamViewer can get hacked</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, rendering a simple security measure such as a password useless.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ultimately, a combination of new, complex passwords and a </span><a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/one-time-passwords-vs-two-factor-authentication" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">second authentication factor</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> is the best we can do.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If your systems require the best available security, look into hardware keys such as Yubico, Google Titan, and Thetis.&nbsp;</span></p>
<h2 id="specialoccurrences">Special Occurrences That Should Prompt a Password Change</h2>
<p>In the realm of cybersecurity, certain events or circumstances necessitate an immediate password change to maintain the integrity of your accounts and sensitive information. Here are some scenarios that should prompt you to update your passwords:</p>
<h3>1. Known Password Breach</h3>
<p>If a service or platform you use has experienced a data breach, especially one involving user passwords, you should change your password for that account immediately. Breached passwords can be exposed to hackers, who might attempt to use them across multiple platforms.</p>
<h3>2. Reused Passwords Across Accounts</h3>
<p>If you've been using the same password for multiple accounts and one of those accounts becomes compromised, it's essential to change the password for all other accounts using the same credential. Cybercriminals often try credentials obtained from one breach on various platforms.</p>
<h3>3. Sharing Passwords with Others</h3>
<p>If you've shared a password with someone and their access is no longer necessary, change the password. Even if you trust the person, their device might be compromised or stolen, potentially leading to unauthorized access.</p>
<h3>4. Employee Departure or Role Changes</h3>
<p>In a business context, when an employee leaves the organization or changes roles, change their account passwords immediately. This prevents former employees from accessing sensitive data and systems, reducing the risk of insider threats.</p>
<h3>5. Suspicious Account Activity</h3>
<p>If you notice unfamiliar activity in your account, such as unauthorized logins, emails you didn't send, or changes to your account settings, it's a strong indication of a potential compromise. Change your password and review your account security settings.</p>
<h3>6. No Longer Using an Account</h3>
<p>If you've stopped using an account or service, it's best practice to change the password and then deactivate or delete the account altogether. Dormant accounts can be targeted by attackers, and maintaining unnecessary accounts increases your risk exposure.</p>
<h3>7. Loss or Theft of Device</h3>
<p>If you've lost a device (such as a smartphone or laptop) or it's been stolen, change the passwords for all accounts accessible from that device. This prevents unauthorized access by whoever gains possession of the device.</p>
<h3>8. Updated Security Practices by the Service Provider</h3>
<p>If the service provider or platform you use announces security improvements, such as implementing stronger encryption or enhanced authentication methods, consider changing your password to align with these enhanced security measures.</p>
<h3>9. Phishing or Social Engineering Attacks</h3>
<p>If you suspect that you've fallen victim to a phishing attack or have inadvertently shared your password through social engineering tactics, change your password immediately to prevent unauthorized access.</p>
<h2 id="how">How to change your passwords</h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The most common reason people cite for not wanting to change passwords is the time required. It&rsquo;s a manual process, and right now, there&rsquo;s no way around that. But if you're not using a password manager, your vision of what the process looks like may be needlessly convoluted.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The unknown can be scary.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/kE8Uzu4ESfebb0whlxAV" alt="undefined" width="752" height="386"></span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">With a password manager, updating passwords is as simple as:&nbsp;</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Navigate to the &ldquo;change password&rdquo; page of your account settings&nbsp;</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Click your browser extension. The extension will most likely have pulled up the appropriate record, but if not simply search for it&nbsp;</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Click &ldquo;edit&rdquo; in your password manager on the account you&rsquo;re updating</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Use the Password Generator to create a new, strong password</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Save the password in your manager and on your account</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Change your passwords with a movie or music in the background! There&rsquo;s no reason it has to be </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">all </span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">boring.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p>
<h3><span style="font-weight: 400;">How to make strong passwords</span></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If the account you&rsquo;re using allows for symbols, then generating a long, random string of symbols, digits, and letters is the easiest and safest option.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If you need to remember the password, try creating a passphrase. Passphrases are strings of words, with a few symbol and number substitutions, that are easy to remember but hard to guess. Part of the reason passphrases are effective is that when it comes to password strength, </span><a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/tips-and-tricks-to-create-a-strong-password" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">longer is better</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. Don&rsquo;t use song lyrics, lines from poems, or anything that can be found in a Google search.&nbsp;</span></p>
<h3><span style="font-weight: 400;">What are bad passwords?</span></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Every year, a few websites take the time to bemoan the state of password management by compiling the </span><a href="https://www.tomsguide.com/news/worst-passwords-2022" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">worst passwords of the year</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. The list typically looks much the same. These passwords can be cracked in less than a second by modern software, yet continue to be widely used.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Avoiding bad passwords is mostly common sense. If you use a password generator or take the time to create a 14+ character passphrase, you&rsquo;re probably good. The key is to avoid patterns and personal information.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If someone is choosing to target you, they will scour the internet and social media for personal information. Pet&rsquo;s names, birthdays, your first car&hellip;it&rsquo;s hard to remember everything you&rsquo;ve ever said on the internet. We recommend avoiding such personal information when building your password.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Here are a few that always make the worst passwords list:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">123456</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">123456789</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">qwerty</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">password</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">12345</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">12345678</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">111111</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">1234567</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">123123</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">qwerty123</span></li>
</ul>
<h2 id="what">What is a password manager?</h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">So far, I&rsquo;ve asseverated that a password manager is a critical tool in your mission for effective password hygiene. But what is its purpose?</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In its most basic form, a password manager is a single vault that stores unique passwords for all your accounts. The benefit is that you only need to remember one master password to access the vault.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A good vault such as TeamPassword uses </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Client-side_encryption#:~:text=Client%2Dside%20encryption%20is%20the,as%20a%20cloud%20storage%20service." rel="follow noopener" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Client-Side Encryption</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, which means that even TeamPassword employees, or anyone with access to TeamPassword&rsquo;s database, cannot see your passwords. They also feature AES 256-bit encryption and security accreditations such as ISO 27001, SOC 1 and SOC 2, SSAE 16 and ISAE 3402.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The best vaults allow users to share passwords with team members - be they friends, family, or colleagues. With organizational tools like groups and different user settings, you can control who sees what without exposing your data.&nbsp;</span></p>
<h3><span style="font-weight: 400;">Should I let my browser save my passwords?</span></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">While Chrome is working to make its password manager more secure, it does not provide enterprise level security or secure sharing.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Chrome is designed to be the most convenient browser on the market, and it succeeds. But if your Google account is breached, your passwords will be revealed. Most of us sync our Chrome profiles so that we can access bookmarks from anywhere. This works against us if one of our devices is stolen.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">I won&rsquo;t claim that a real password manager is as convenient as letting your browser handle everything. As I said above, cybersecurity is often a tradeoff between easy and secure. However, if you need to share passwords with team members or family, then Chrome is definitely not the appropriate tool. A dedicated password manager built for sharing is both easier to use and safer.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/how-to-disable-google-chrome-password-manager" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Here's a guide</a> on disabling your Chrome password manager.&nbsp;</span></p>
<h3><span style="font-weight: 400;">How does a password manager work?&nbsp;</span></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Let&rsquo;s start with what a password manager is not.&nbsp;</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Not a magical tool that automatically updates all your account passwords without you lifting a finger.&nbsp;</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Does not guarantee that you&rsquo;ll never be locked out of an account again - you could accidentally save different passwords between your password manager and the account you&rsquo;re trying to manage.&nbsp;</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Does not replace account settings or have administrative control over your accounts. That is, just changing your Instagram password in your password manager does not actually change your Instagram password. You still need to go to your Instagram account settings and make the change there.&nbsp;</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">What <em>does</em> it do?</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">By storing your sensitive credentials in a host-proof and locally encrypted vault, a password manager stores complex passwords for all your accounts while only requiring you to remember the master password that accesses your vault. Team plans let you safely share account credentials with your team without the credentials leaving an encrypted environment.</span></p>
<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Is TeamPassword a good password manager?</span></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">TeamPassword is one of the best - especially for sharing passwords on teams.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">TeamPassword exists so teams can effortlessly access the credentials they need&hellip;and </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">only</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> the credentials they need. Here are a few of the features that make this possible:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Unlimited number of completely customizable groups such as Marketing, HR, and Billing</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Records can be part of multiple groups</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Admins grant or revoke access to each group with the click of a button</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">TeamPassword is designed so that your team will actually use it. The interface is simple and only shows you what you need. We integrate with Google SSO for seamless login into your vault.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/S5jNIC3TtuXldRHK5V4w" alt="undefined" width="511" height="418"></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">We offer a mobile app and extension so your records are accessible everywhere, all the time.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If you&rsquo;re looking for an affordable, easy-breezy to set-up password manager for your team, please </span><a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial"><span style="font-weight: 400;">sign up for our free trial</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> and let us know what you think.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p>

Changing passwords can seem like a tedious task, but with the right technology, it can be easy! Learn how often it should be changed to stay secure.

Changing passwords can seem like a tedious task, but with the right technology, it can be easy! Learn ...

How Often Should You Change Your Password | Tips to Stay Secure

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

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

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

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

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

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Password encryption is essential to store user credentials stored in a database securely. Without password encryption, anyone accessing a user database on a company's servers (including hackers) could easily view any stored passwords.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Even a strong 32-character password created using a </span><a href="https://teampassword.com/password-generator"><span style="font-weight: 400;">secure password generator</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> is useless without password-encryption! If someone can read your password on a server, they can use it simply by copy/pasting it&mdash;no matter how long or complicated the password might be!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Encryption scrambles your password before saving it on the server. So, if someone hacks the server, instead of finding </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">password123</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">, they find a random series of letters and numbers.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In this article, we're going to explore the world of password encryption, why </span><a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/tips-and-tricks-to-create-a-strong-password"><span style="font-weight: 400;">strong passwords matter</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, and how you can practice better password management!</span></p>
<p><a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial"><span style="font-weight: 400;">TeamPassword</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> is </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">the</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> password management solution for small businesses! Create, store, and share login credentials safely with employees, contractors, and clients. </span><a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Sign up for a 14-day free trial</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> today!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">&rlm;&rlm;&lrm; &lrm;[Table of Contents]</span></p>
<ul>
<li><a href="#understandingpasswordencryption" rel="follow"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Understanding Password Encryption</span></a></li>
<li><a href="#howdoespasswordencryptionwork" rel="follow"><span style="font-weight: 400;">How Does Password Encryption Work?</span></a></li>
<li><a href="#5commonpasswordencryptionmethods" rel="follow"><span style="font-weight: 400;">5 Common Password Encryption Methods</span></a></li>
<li><a href="#whystrongpasswordsmatter" rel="follow"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Why Strong Passwords Matter</span></a></li>
</ul>
<h2 id="understandingpasswordencryption">Understanding Password Encryption</h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">To explain password encryption effectively, we must first grasp the language. Several terms might be unfamiliar, so here is a quick intro to password encryption terminology.</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Key:</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Used to lock and unlock passwords using a random string of bits. You get </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">private and public keys that</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> crypt and decrypt data differently, but we won't get too deep in the weeds with keys!</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Bits:</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> A logical state with one of two possible values, including 1/0, true/false, yes/no, or on/off as typical examples.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Block (block cipher):</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> A deterministic algorithm operating on fixed-length groups of bits, called blocks.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Hash function:</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> The algorithm that uses the key to create password encryption and decryption. A hash function is essentially a piece of code that runs every time someone saves a password or logs into an application.&nbsp;</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Hash:</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> A random series of numbers and letters representing your password. The hash function uses your hash instead of the raw password for authentication.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Salt:</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Additional letters and numbers appended to the hash</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"></span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">&rlm;&rlm;&lrm; &lrm;</span></p>
<h2 id="howdoespasswordencryptionwork">How Does Password Encryption Work?</h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When you save a new password, a hash function creates a hash version and saves that on the server.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Every time you log in using your password, the hash function recreates the hash to see if it matches what's stored. If the hashes match, the algorithm passes the authentication and logs you in.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">For example:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Original password: Pa$$w0rd123</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Hashed password: 6AF1CE202340​FE71BDB914AD5357​E33A6982A63B</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">While this might seem secure, simple hashed passwords aren't </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">hack-proof</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The hash function only creates a </span><b>unique hash for each password</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">, </span><b>not each user</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">. So, if multiple users have the password, </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Pa$$w0rd123</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">, the hash will be exactly the same.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">To overcome this encryption vulnerability, engineers </span><b><i>salt</i></b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> passwords so each hash is unique, even if the passwords are identical.</span></p>
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">How Salt Works</span></span></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A salt appends a unique value of 8 bytes (16 characters) to the password before the hash function creates a hash. This way, even identical passwords are unique before the hash function.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">For example:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Two identical passwords: Pa$$w0rd123</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Salt value one: E1F53135E559C253</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Salt value two: 84B03D034B409D4E</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Password one before hash: Pa$$w0rd123E1F53135E559C253</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Password two before hash: Pa$$w0rd12384B03D034B409D4E</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Password one hashed value (SHA256): 72AE25495A7981​C40622D49F9A52E4F15​65C90F048F59027BD9​C8C8900D5C3D8</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Password two hashed value (SHA256): B4B6603ABC670​967E99C7E7F1389E40​CD16E78AD38EB1468E​C2AA1E62B8BED3A</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">&rlm;&rlm;&lrm; &lrm;</span></p>
<h2 id="5commonpasswordencryptionmethods">5 Common Password Encryption Methods</h2>
<h3><span style="font-weight: 400;">1. <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Data Encryption Standard (DES)</span></span></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">While applications no longer use Data Encryption Standard (DES), it's important to mention this password encryption method because of its history and influence on more secure modern standards.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">IBM developed DES as a 56-bit encryption technology in the early 1970s. The NSA adopted and improved DES before it was approved worldwide as the encryption standard.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">However, since the late 70s, hackers have been able to break DES encrypted passwords. In 1999, ethical hackers managed to break a DES key in under 24 hours.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">To make DES more secure, engineers created </span><b>Triple DES</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> and later </span><b>Advanced Encryption Standard (AES)</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">, which we still use today.</span></p>
<h3><span style="font-weight: 400;">2. <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Triple DES</span></span></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Triple DES uses three 56-bit keys (blocks) to create 168-bit encryption (some security experts argue that Triple DES is only 112 bits strong). Although Triple-DES is slowly being phased out, many financial institutions still use it to encrypt ATM PINs.</span></p>
<h3><span style="font-weight: 400;">3. <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Advanced Encryption Standard (AES)</span></span></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">AES is the new encryption standard&mdash;trusted by the United States Government and many other prominent organizations globally. At 128 bits, AES is sufficiently secure, but most organizations prefer heavy-duty 256-bit encryption.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">At </span><a href="https://teampassword.com/security"><span style="font-weight: 400;">TeamPassword</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, we use 256-bit encryption to store passwords, ensuring the highest levels of security for our clients. We're also a </span><a href="https://teampassword.com/security"><span style="font-weight: 400;">secure hosting provider</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> holding multiple security accreditations.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Hackers can only break an AES encrypted password through a brute-force attack&mdash;trying password combinations to find the right one.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">To counter brute-force attacks, applications will lock an account after a certain number of attempts or use tools like Google's reCAPTURE.</span></p>
<h3><span style="font-weight: 400;">4. <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Blowfish</span></span></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">American cryptographer, Bruce Schneier, designed Blowfish in 1993 as an antidote to the weak DES encryption. Blowfish uses a 64-bit block and variable key length of 32 to 448 bits.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Although Blowfish is more robust than its DES predecessor, the 64-bit block is still vulnerable to attacks, most commonly </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">birthday attacks</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">&mdash;a</span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">cryptographic attack that exploits the mathematics behind the algorithm.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">To solve Blowfish vulnerabilities, engineers created Twofish in 1998 (128-bit blocks with 256-bit keys) and Threefish in 2008 (256, 516, 1024-bit blocks with 256, 516, 1024-bit keys).</span></p>
<h3><span style="font-weight: 400;">5. <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Rivest-Shamir-Adleman (RSA)</span></span></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">RSA is one of the oldest and widely used to transfer data securely. The encryption works with two keys, two large prime numbers, and an additional auxiliary value.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Due to the complicated encrypting and decrypting process, there is no known method for breaking RSA encryption.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Although widely used for transferring data, RSA is slow and not suitable for password encryption.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">&rlm;&rlm;&lrm; &lrm;</span></p>
<h2 id="whystrongpasswordsmatter">Why Strong Passwords Matter</h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Password encryption can only prevent criminals from viewing saved credentials stored on a server&mdash;but cannot prevent hackers from guessing weak/commonly used passwords. If you </span><a href="https://teampassword.com/blog/colonial-pipeline-ransomware-attack-dont-reuse-passwords"><span style="font-weight: 400;">reuse the same password for multiple accounts</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, this also puts you at risk!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Encryption is most effective when users create robust, unique passwords for every account. For example, a random 32-character password with letters, numbers, and special characters hashed and salted is near impossible to guess or decode, even using a computer!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In another scenario, let's assume you have a strong 32-character password, but you use it for every account. If hackers manage to steal that password, they have access to every account using the same credentials! Your strong password is effectively useless.</span></p>
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Improving Your Password Management</span></span></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Now that you understand password encryption and the associated vulnerabilities, you can see why strong passwords are essential.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Effective password management is crucial to protect yourself against cyberattacks or in the highly likely event of a data breach where hackers steal your credentials.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Criminals are after the low-hanging fruit&mdash;people who use weak passwords!</span></p>
<p><b>5 tips for creating stronger passwords</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">:</span></p>
<ol>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Create strong passwords for every account. The easiest way to do this is using a password generator. </span><a href="https://teampassword.com/password-generator"><span style="font-weight: 400;">TeamPassword has a free password generator</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> anyone can use to create passwords from 12-32 characters using uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and special characters. We recommend creating passwords as long as the application will allow.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Never create passwords shorter than eight characters, with 12 being our recommended minimum.&nbsp;</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Never reuse the same password for multiple accounts.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Never create passwords with your name, family member's names, or pet's names. With social media, this information is freely available. Criminals can add those names to algorithms for brute-force attacks.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Don't store passwords in digital notepads or spreadsheets. We recommend using a </span><a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial"><span style="font-weight: 400;">password manager like TeamPassword</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> to create and store your credentials.</span></li>
</ol>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">&rlm;&rlm;&lrm; &lrm;</span></p>
<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Why You Need a Password Manager like TeamPassword</span></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">We have so many accounts these days; it's almost impossible to create unique, memorable, secure passwords for each one. A password manager solves this problem.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Instead of remembering the credentials for every account, you only need to memorize the one to log into your password manager.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">TeamPassword keeps all of your credentials safely stored and encrypted, so you never have to memorize a password again. Instead of entering your credentials, you use one of TeamPassword's browser extensions (Chrome, Firefox, and Safari) to log into accounts.</span></p>
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Built for Teams</span></span></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">TeamPassword's best feature is its ability to share credentials with team members securely. Instead of sharing passwords, you provide access through TeamPassword.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Employees </span><a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial"><span style="font-weight: 400;">use TeamPassword</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> to log in, meaning you never share raw passwords&mdash;no more worrying about unauthorized access or sharing.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">You can create groups in TeamPassword to share access with employees, clients, contractors, and freelancers. When someone no longer needs access, remove them from the group with a single click. No need to change passwords every time someone leaves a project!</span></p>
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Built-In Password Generator</span></span></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">TeamPassword features a built-in secure password manager so you can create robust passwords for every account. TeamPassword also ensures you never reuse the same credentials so that you won't fall victim to credential stuffing attacks!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">With a built-in password generator, you can change passwords regularly, and TeamPassword will update the new credentials for all users!</span></p>
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Monitor Login Activity</span></span></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">TeamPassword's activity log keeps track of every action across all of your accounts&mdash;logins, password changes, new team members, sharing access, and more.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">You can also set up email notifications for all TeamPassword actions so that you can react fast to any suspicious activity.</span></p>
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Get Your Free TeamPassword Trial</span></span></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Password encryption is not enough to protect your business from password vulnerabilities! You need a robust password manager like TeamPassword to create, store, and share credentials securely.</span></p>
<p>&rlm;&rlm;&lrm; &lrm;</p>
<p><a href="https://app.teampassword.com/dashboard#signup/testimonial"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Sign up for a 14-day free trial</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> and let TeamPassword secure your company's digital assets.</span></p>

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

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

TeamPassword Blog

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

Most popular articles

Password Management

June 1, 2021 ∙ 5 min read

Top 5 Dangerous Ways to Store Your Passwords

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

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

What is password encryption and how does it work?

Password Management

August 15, 2023 ∙ 5 min read

Password vs. Passphrase: A Comprehensive Overview | TeamPassword

Cybersecurity

August 11, 2023 ∙ 7 min read

AI Cybersecurity Solutions: 5 Ways AI Can Improve Security

Product Information

August 9, 2023 ∙ 8 min read

Dashlane vs 1Password | A 2023 Comparison With Competitors

Password Management

August 8, 2023 ∙ 9 min read

Cybersecurity for Accountants: How to Safeguard Your Data

Password Management

August 6, 2023 ∙ 5 min read

Is Google Sheets Secure | Dangers of Storing Sensitive Data

Cybersecurity

August 4, 2023 ∙ 11 min read

How Often Should You Change Your Password | Tips to Stay Secure

The Password Manager for Teams

Product

Support

Channels

Legal