Password Best Practices Every Business Should Follow

Technology has become integral to business operations. While it offers numerous advantages, it also introduces vulnerabilities that demand attention. Cybersecurity has become a top priority for organizations, and a solid starting point is proper password protection.

Passwords are the first line of defense in securing your company’s data, but they’re often overlooked or mismanaged. Simple mistakes, like using weak passwords or reusing them across accounts, can lead to serious security breaches. That’s why educating your team on password best practices is crucial.

Below, we’ve compiled six “don’ts” and six “do’s” to help your business strengthen its password security.

6 Password “Don’ts”

Protect your sensitive data by avoiding these common password pitfalls:

1. Don’t write passwords on sticky notes.
   While it might seem convenient, leaving passwords on sticky notes or visible documents makes it easy for someone to steal them in person.
2. Don’t save passwords in your browser.
   Browsers often lack robust security, making them susceptible to malware and hacking attempts. A compromised browser can expose all saved passwords.
3. Don’t use predictable patterns, like PowerWalker1 to PowerWalker2.
   Hackers are adept at identifying patterns. Sequential passwords are easy targets for advanced cyber threats.
4. Don’t use the same password across multiple accounts.
   Reusing passwords creates a domino effect—if one account is breached, all others become vulnerable.
5. Don’t always capitalize the first letter.
   Many people capitalize the first letter of their password out of habit, making it predictable for hackers.
6. Don’t rely on symbols like “!” at the end of your password.
   While symbols are essential, placing them in predictable spots, like at the end, weakens their effectiveness.

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6 Password “Do’s”

Enhance your cybersecurity by adopting these best practices:

1. Create long, phrase-based passwords.
   Use memorable phrases with a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. For example, turn “Honey, I shrunk the kids” into “h0ney1$hrunkth3k!d$.”
2. Change critical passwords every three months.
   For passwords protecting sensitive information, frequent updates reduce the risk of long-term exposure to hacking attempts.
3. Change less critical passwords every six months.
   Regular updates, even for less sensitive accounts, ensure an added layer of protection.
4. Use multifactor authentication (MFA).
   MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring additional verification, making it harder for unauthorized users to access accounts.
5. Create passwords longer than eight characters with a mix of elements.
   Complex passwords are more difficult for hackers to crack. Include numbers, symbols, and both uppercase and lowercase letters.
6. Use a password manager.
   Password managers securely store and manage your credentials, reducing the risk of human error and freeing you from the stress of remembering multiple passwords.

Partner With Experts to Protect Your Business

Adhering to password best practices takes consistent effort and vigilance, but you don’t have to go it alone. At TekConcierge, we specialize in helping businesses strengthen their cybersecurity posture. From deploying password management tools to implementing comprehensive security solutions, we’re here to support you.