Passwords & Password Managers
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Cyber Security Technology Training Passwords & Password Managers What is a password manager? A password manager is a program or app that generates and keeps track of super-long random passwords with encryption so strong it could take a hacker between decades and forever to crack. Is it safe to use a password manager? Most experts say the combination of security and convenience provided by using a password manager is safer than not using one. What makes a password secure? Length (at least 12 characters) Variety of letters + numbers + symbols Words that aren’t in a dictionary Not using the same password for more than one account What is a passphrase? A passphrase is a string of several words (real or made up) that’s more secure and easier to remember than a shorter password. A passphrase may include numbers, spaces or other characters. What is two-factor authentication (2FA) and why do I need to know? 2FA adds extra security by requiring an extra step when you log in. The extra step may be a code that’s texted to you, a fingerprint or face recognition. Features to look for in a password manager Generates secure passwords Syncs between desktop and mobile devices Captures new usernames and passwords when you log in to a secure site Automatically updates stored passwords when you change them Autofills saved passwords on desktop and mobile devices Imports from and export to other password managers Created by Michelle Quigley / Updated November 2020 Cyber Security Technology Training Passwords & Password Managers Comparing popular and recommended password managers PASSWORD MANAGER PRICING KEY FEATURES Free for 1 user, premium PC Magazine 2019 Editors’ Lastpass (lastpass.com) $36/year or $48/year Choice Free for up to 50 passwords on PC Magazine 2019 Editors’ Dashlane (dashlane.com) one device, premium $60/year Choice 1Password (1password.com) Starts at $36/year Wirecutter 2019 top pick Stores passwords on your Free for personal use, pay per Myki (myki.com) device, PC Magazine 2019 user for businesses Editors’ Choice Starts at $34.99/year, Advanced security Keeper (keepersecurity.com) additional charges for secure features, PC Magazine messaging and other features 2019 Editors’ Choice Open-source, option to Free or $10/year for secure file Bitwarden (bitwarden.com) store passwords on your storage and additional features own server Resources Test your passwords at howsecureismypassword.net (sponsored by DashLane) Check haveibeenpwned.com to see if any of your accounts have been compromised Find more cybersecurity tips from the National Cyber Security Alliance at staysafeonline.org consumerreports.org/digital-security/everything-you-need-to-know-about-password-managers consumerreports.org/digital-security/tips-for-better-passwords pcmag.com/roundup/331555/the-best-free-password-managers pcmag.com/roundup/300318/the-best-password-managers pcmag.com/article/357964/how-to-switch-to-a-new-password-manager thewirecutter.com/reviews/best-password-managers In accordance with the provisions of the ADA, this document may be requested in an alternate format. Created by Michelle Quigley / Updated November 2020 .