Three tips for secure password management

We use them every day: passwords. However, they often receive less attention than they deserve. One weak or reused password can be enough to let your data end up on the street.

Fortunately, good password management doesn't have to be complicated at all. With a few smart choices, you can immediately improve your digital safety. Below are three practical tips that you can apply immediately.

Tip 1: Use an email alias per account

A strong password is important, but did you know that a unique email address can protect you even better?

Using a separate alias for each service (for example, Gmail, Outlook, iCloud+, or tools like SimpleLogin) makes your username less predictable. If one of your accounts ends up in the wrong hands, it is much more difficult to link or take over other accounts.

Benefits:

• An extra layer of security on top of your password.
• Less traceable in the event of data breaches.
• Bonus: You can immediately see which party may have leaked data.

Tip 2: Never reuse passwords. Not even with old accounts

Everyone has them: forgotten accounts at old web shops or tools you haven't used for years. But if you used the same password there as for your important accounts, you're still at risk.

Therefore, make sure that your old or inactive accounts also have unique passwords.

Helpful guidelines:

• Use a password manager to manage all your passwords securely and conveniently.
• Close accounts that you no longer need.
• Note: outdated services sometimes even store passwords in plain text. So extra risky in case of data leaks.

Tip 3: Opt for “in-app” authentication instead of text or email

Two-factor authentication (MFA) is essential these days. But not every method is equally safe.

SMS codes are vulnerable to SIM swapping, and email-dependent MFA depends on the security of your inbox. Therefore, use an authenticator app such as Microsoft Authenticator or Authy. For extra sensitive accounts, a hardware key, such as a YubiKey, is even better.‍

Benefits:

• Stronger protection against phishing and identity theft.
• Better security for critical accounts.
• Hardware keys are also phishing-resistant thanks to U2F and FIDO2 standards.

Use a password manager

Smart use of passwords is one of the most immediate ways to protect yourself and your organization. By using unique email addresses, generating strong passwords, and enabling secure MFA, you're taking big steps forward right away.

A password manager makes this even easier. For example, we use 1Password in combination with single sign-on (SSO), so that passwords are securely stored, shared in a controlled manner, and login becomes faster and more secure.

In addition, keep checking your accounts and security settings regularly. Good digital hygiene prevents surprises and keeps you one step ahead of cybercriminals.

Safety starts with small choices and affects everything you do.