Password Hacked? What is a Password Manager and Do I Need One?

Summary: This 2-3 minute article explores the most common mistakes made when creating passwords. Contact GEEKAID Computer and Network Support, the IT experts, at https://www.geek-aid.com/ to discuss password management options and other concerns related to creating strong passwords and protecting your private data.

Password Safety – One Password Is Not Enough

Passwords have been around since the 1960’s. Ironically, a half-century later, SMB’s and home users do not take passwords seriously enough. Even IT savvy companies and power users are not as diligent as they need to be in password management. Here are some of the most common password mistakes:

Using the Same Password Across Multiple Platforms – Using the same password over and over again, across websites and apps, might make it easy to remember. However, such a practice also makes it easier for hackers to breach your private data. If a cybercriminal gains access to that particular frequently used password, they will have an “All-Access Pass” to all the platforms for which you’ve assigned that password, including banking, social media, email and credit card accounts.
Recycling Passwords and Changing Them Too Often – Recycling passwords is not a great idea because if a password you used years ago was compromised or was too simple from the start, it will be more likely to be discovered by hackers. Studies have shown that users who recycle and change passwords too often are more likely reuse the same half dozen passwords over and over again, making it easier for cyber thieves, armed with password guessing software tools to breach your credentials.
Using Family Names and Private Data – Family names, pet names, birthdays and anniversaries used for passwords are no longer safe. Hackers have increasingly sophisticated programs to help them glean many of those data points online, making it easier to for them to guess those passwords.
Storing An Unsecured List of Passwords on your Devices – Storing a digital list of passwords on your computers or mobile devices is not much different than leaving a sign inside the front door to your home, directing criminals to where all the money and jewelry are stored and where to find the keys to everything. It is best to keep a handwritten hard copy of your passwords in a safe location.
Omitting Password Protection From Mobile Devices – An astounding 52% of users have not enabled password protection for their mobile devices. Also, many users who do have password protection on their devices, use easy ones such as “123456” or a geometric pattern using the key pad. As mobile devices are part of your network and are potentially vulnerable access points, they must be protected by the same kinds cyber security protocols as your computers. Mobile devices are now a big part of the cyberthieve’s target attack landscape.

How To Remember Passwords - Password Managers To The Rescue

Password safety has become a top priority in data protection and password managers are excellent tools for creating and securely storing passwords. The benefits of password managers are:

Creation of a “Master” Password – One strong password to protect all stored passwords
Generation of Random Unique Passwords – Many password managers generate complex and robust random passwords, unrelated to any personal information about you.
Easier Access to Accounts – Once installed, safely logging into multiple accounts is easier and more secure.
Easy Editing of Passwords – Passwords may be edited at any time.
Secure Storage of Passwords – Passwords are stored in one place with special attention given to cyber security.
Secure Sharing – Although sharing passwords is not a safe practice, password managers afford more protection in sharing of credentials.

There are many “moving parts” related to protection from cybercrimes. Passwords are usually the first line of defense in protecting your hard-earned data from a breach. As protecting your private data is of the upmost importance you might consider enlisting the help of professional IT experts who can help you lock down your passwords and other cyber vulnerabitlies from the start.

GEEK-AID^® Computer and Network Support provides world-class IT consulting services and specializes in computer repairs, customized computer networks, installations, upgrades, updates, and maintenance for homes and small to midsized businesses. GEEK-AID^®'s team of experts is comprised of top specialists in different areas of IT services, serving clients on-site and remotely for Macs, PCs and all your connected devices, including new ones that are part of the ever-expanding IoT. They can answer all your IT questions from “Do I need a password manager? ” to “When do I need to upgrade my company’s hardware?” More importantly, when your home or business computer goes down, they will perform on-site computer repairs if required. And the GEEK-AID^® team doesn't clock out at five o'clock on Friday. They are available to you 24/7, remotely or in person, to ensure your computers, network and data stay up-to-date, healthy and secure. As your business grows, expands its network and adds more devices such as smart controls, smart devices, wireless access and remote access, your network's cybercrime vulnerability and need for cyber security will grow, too. In addition to maintaining the hardware, software and security, employee training and regular IT support should be ongoing. New users and devices will require additional training to use those devices efficiently and securely. Inter-related concerns include hardware and software installation and maintenance, repair, cyber security and network protection. These concerns must be addressed consistently and proactively to best support the seamless operation of your system, minimizing costly and time-consuming mistakes.

Call (877) GEEK-AID (877-433-5243) to discuss your computer needs and help you decide what will serve you best and how to protect and maintain it.