Cybercrime is a persistent problem for businesses in the U.S. In 2020, the average cost of a data breach was $3.86 million per incident and has since risen to a whopping $4.24 million. Businesses with remote work structures in place experienced the highest losses. According to the annual IBM-Ponemon Institute’s Cost of a Data Breach Report, compromised credentials caused the most breaches. Therefore, one of the smartest moves businesses can make to protect themselves is by promoting better password protection strategies.
Use Password Managers
Passwords are the first line of defense against data theft. However, people are frustrated with managing too many passwords in their professional and personal lives. Websites require different password criteria, and it’s hard to remember them all. To prevent reused or easy to guess passwords, give employees access to a good password manager. All they have to remember is one master password, and the rest will be encrypted and safeguarded from prying eyes.
Require Longer and More Complex Passwords
One of the biggest problems with passwords is organizations often supply default passwords, or employees change them to an easy to crack string of code. Complex passwords are better than words or easy to guess combinations (e.g., Passw0rd), but requiring employees to use longer passwords is even better. Ideally, these should be between 12 and 15 characters. Remind people to use complicated strings and to stay away from easy patterns. Aim for short sentences and avoid using numbers and symbols at the beginning and end of the phrase. Instead, put them in between.
Discourage Use of Repeated Passwords
It’s tempting to use the same passwords for different accounts. Encourage everyone to avoid this at all costs, especially for accounts that contain PII or sensitive data. Once an account is compromised, this puts all other accounts using the same password at high risk—ultimately allowing the bad guys to infiltrate your company.
Require Two-Factor Authentication
Use SMS and emails with verification codes, or integrate biometrics in conjunction with passwords. Adding a secondary form of authentication to strong passwords creates a better barrier to keep hackers at bay. Additionally, remind employees to log out of all accounts when they are at lunch or away for the day.
No Storing Passwords in Browsers
Storing passwords in browsers is very convenient. Unfortunately, these shouldn’t be trusted. Intelligent hackers can easily bypass them and locate passwords in browser settings. Opt for a password manager instead of allowing the browser to serve as one.
If you are concerned about your San Francisco office’s network security, contact Golden Gate Office Solutions today to speak with one of our experts. We can provide you with reliable, robust, and secure IT services that protect your information.
