3 Tips To Help Improve Security When Using Password Managers

As much as it would be nice to have some type of software that would keep cyber attackers and hackers away completely, no one has developed it yet, and it is unlikely that anyone ever will. With suspicious activity always at your doorstep, it is imperative that you are always on the lookout for ways to protect your online data and maintain your online privacy. This is true whether you are running an online business or you simply use a home computer for personal use. While there is not some magical software to purchase, there is a password management software that can help keep your passwords safe. When using this type of software, here are a few tips:

1. Never Write Your Master Password Down.

A password manager is going to hold all of your passwords to everything, from your online bank account to your online gaming accounts. In order to access the password manager, you are going to need to use a master password. Just like you wouldn't write down any of your other password, it is crucial that you don't write down this master password. If you do write it down, do not leave it anywhere near your computer or anywhere that someone could find it easily. You also don't want to save it on the computer in a document or spreadsheet.  The best thing you can do is to create the strongest possible password, but ensure that it is one that is memorable for you.

2. Utilize Multi-factor Authentication.

Have you ever accessed a website where you needed to enter your password and identify a photo that you selected when you first created your account before you gained access to your account? Or maybe you had to enter in a code that the system sent to your mobile phone? These are both examples of what is known as multi-factor authentication. It is a good idea to try to find a password management software that utilizes this type of authentication and make sure that you use it, as it makes it harder for attackers to hack into your system and steal your passwords.

3. Change Up Your Passwords.

While it may be easier to use the same exact password for every single website, it is extremely important that you have multiple passwords for various websites. The first thing that a hacker is going to do if he or she gains access to a password to one site is to try that same password on all other sites that you utilize. For example, if your bowling league account and banking account utilize the same password, a hacker may be able to hack into the bowling league website to eventually gain access to your bank where there is far more valuable information.

With a password management program, you won't have to worry about remembering a ton of difficult passwords. After all, this is why you probably choose to keep one password for all of your websites or opt for weaker, easier-to-remember passwords, right? A password manager will keep track of and remember stronger, more unique passwords that are harder to hack for you so that you don't have to. All you will need to do is remember that one master password so that you can gain access to your password vault. Keep reading for additional info.

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