One of the most crucial aspects of security, especially in the digital realm, is the development of robust passwords. However, if the password is compromised, its use is no more secure than that of the “123456” password. That’s the biggest hurdle, especially when dealing with tens of passwords. As a result, many people either use incredibly weak passwords or opt to have their browser remember their passwords for them. While this may be handy, it is not a secure way to keep your passwords. Instead, allow us to demonstrate the proper technique to maintain password security.
Keeping passwords safe by writing or printing
Our first piece of guidance is also the most straightforward, yet it can be challenging to put into practise consistently across multiple accounts. Write down your passwords instead of saving them in a browser or a Notepad file on your computer’s hard drive. You can jot them down wherever you like; options range from simple notebooks to high-tech diaries with locks and keys. The passwords can also be printed out. Then, if you’re worried about it being found, you may either carve out an old book, buy a lockbox, or create a false bottom for one of the drawers. Imagine something!
Keep passwords safe by protecting devices you use
If you don’t like the idea of physically writing down all your passwords but don’t want to use any other techniques, this is the way to go. Be sure to protect the devices you use to access the browser where you keep all of your passwords if you do this. By this, we mean using biometrics such as fingerprints or a facial scan in addition to a PIN or password. If you have particularly sensitive software or programmes, you can also install utilities that let you add a second password to them.
Use a password manager browser extension
Now we’ll discuss the most widely adopted strategy for password security: installing a browser extension. One master password is all that’s needed for the plethora of free products in this category. A database of additional passwords, including PINs, bank account numbers, credit card numbers, and other sensitive information, is unlocked upon entering it. Keyloggers and other malware are rendered useless because your passwords are auto-filled (upon your confirmation). The best part is that you can make up your own incredibly complicated master password and receive periodic reminders to update it.
Keep passwords safe with a dongle
Dongles, often known as “USB password keepers,” come in a wide variety. Not quite; several support NFC in addition to USB 2.0/3.0/3.1, USB-C, or USB-A, so they can be used with a wide variety of electronic gadgets. In addition, they produce passwords mechanically using lengthy and difficult keys, such as 128 bits or 256 bits. And until the user activates a special programme or hits a button on the dongle, the passwords are kept safely on the USB keeper and not on the computer.
Protecting passwords with a secure computer
Passwords are best protected on a secure computer. You can make your own adjustments, but it may be easier to buy one that is already set up. These are often small, portable computers that may be stashed almost anywhere. Safe computers have an open-source BIOS and additional safeguards against software and physical infiltration. Also, they are powered by open-source firmware (operating system), which means there are no hidden vulnerabilities or breaches of sensitive information. They function as virtual discs and encrypt your e-mails and data transfers via Secure Shell (SSH). They have a decoy encryption disc option, multiple master key generation, and OTFE in their drives. Passwords for all of your accounts, both static and dynamic, can be generated and stored locally by secure computers. The best part is that they double as Universal 2nd Factors (U2F) and 2FA (2-factor authentication), considerably boosting the security of your device (way 2).