Your company's security is one of the most important aspects of your business. As technology advances, hackers have found new and innovative ways to breach company security.
By now, we all know that a strong password is essential to keeping your company's data safe from external threats. However, many of us are guilty of using the same password for multiple accounts or keeping it simple to remember. In this blog post, we will discuss tips and tricks on creating strong passwords that are difficult to hack and secure your company's data.
The Complexity of Passwords
The more complex your password, the more difficult it is to guess or crack. A strong password should consist of a minimum of eight characters that combine uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. You should use different characters and ensure there are no spaces in your password. Avoid easily guessed passwords, such as your name, birth date, or commonly used words.
The Power of Passphrases
Instead of using a single word, use a truncated phrase to make it easier to remember without sacrificing security. A passphrase can include spaces and punctuation, and it can be a line from one of your favorite songs or quotes from a movie. For instance, "The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog" could become "tqBfJotld". This truncated passphrase is easy to remember but difficult to crack.
Two-Factor Authentication
Many systems offer two-factor authentication, which adds a layer of security beyond the password. When two-factor authentication is enabled, a user must enter a unique code received through email or text message to access their account. Even if someone does manage to get your password, they need your mobile device to access your account.
Password Manager Apps
It isn't uncommon to have multiple accounts for work and personal use. Using the same password for multiple accounts will make it easy to remember, but it is also easier for hackers to breach your data.
Password manager apps, such as LastPass, Dashlane, and 1Password, can help generate unique passwords for each account and securely store them, making them easy to access when you need them.
Keep Changing Your Passwords
It’s vital to change your passwords periodically. Suppose your password is at risk due to a data breach. In that case, hackers can use it to gain access to your accounts, and many companies will require you to change your password following a data breach to keep your account secure. Make it a habit to change your passwords every three to six months.
Consider Cyber Liability Insurance for Added Protection
Creating strong passwords is not just a suggestion. It is an essential step in ensuring the safety of your company's data. Incorporating these tips into your password creation will help make it harder for outsiders to penetrate your system and keep hackers from accessing your company's data.
Data breaches can happen in spite of the best passwords, however. That’s why you should strongly consider adding a cyber liability insurance policy to insulate your company from cyber threats. Should a breach occur, filing a claim can help your company recover in no time.
For more information about a cyber liability insurance policy for your company, contact Insurance Specialists, Inc. today.