Long gone are the days of folder-filled filing cabinets. Businesses have gone digital, and every aspect of your organization is now held on a computer, server, external drive, or up in the cloud.
With the business world so heavily reliant on digitalization, the use of modern technology in your organization is unavoidable. With this advance comes many advantages, including security.
The best and easiest place to start setting up proper cyber security protection is with passwords.
Only those with passwords can access information or accounts once data has been password protected. This is the modern version of giving someone a physical key to access your business. It is vital to devise strategies that educate your employees about best practices when creating and using passwords at work. This is also good advice that they can carry with them for personal use as well.
Giant Password “DON’Ts”
Don’t your browser store your passwords.
Because web browsers are poorly designed to protect sensitive information, such as your credit card number and passwords, they are often vulnerable to being stolen or exploited. There is a wide range of software and browser extensions that can be used to access and collect data.
Don’t write passwords on sticky notes
It’s just a quick easy glance around your desk (or under your keyboard – yes, we see you…) and voila, access.
Don’t repeat and use the same thing with a different number
For example, Pumpkinspice1 and Pumpkinspice2 are an example of bad passwords. This is commonplace for many users but it’s a dream for a hacker.
Don’t use the same password across multiple accounts
Once someone gets it on one, they have all of your information. Don’t make it this easy!
Don’t capitalize the first letter of your password
Many people meet the “must have one capitalized letter” requirement by just capitalizing the first letter of the password. The problem is that it’s an obvious go-to.
Don’t use the exclamation point to conform to the symbol requirement
If you must use it, do not make it the very last character.
Password Dos!
What makes a great password?
Use long phrase-based passwords that change out letters for numbers or symbols
For instance, if you choose “Haveagreatday” write it as “ha>eaGr8Day.” This makes your password harder for hackers to crack.
Change your financial passwords every three months
When it comes to sensitive data such as finance, password strength has a lot at stake. Updating regularly helps ensure security. Change less important passwords every six months.
Implement multi-factor authentication
Having to send a code to your email or phone can prevent and stop cyber attacks as they have no way to get into either in order to verify even if they make it past your password.
Always use passwords that are longer than eight characters
Use a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols.
It’s important to remember to keep in mind that implementing the best practices for securing your passwords requires regular effort and vigilance.
Need more advice or computer help?
Contact Computers and Crypto of St. Pete (727) 291-3352 or stop by 2931 1st Ave S. St. Petersburg, FL 33712.
Courtesy of Computer Crypto of St. Pete (Greater Tampa Area)
