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World Password Day: Top 10 Password Managers for Ultimate Digital Safety

Password Managers

In today's digital age, the necessity of strong and unique passwords has never been more critical. With cyber threats looming large, the importance of securing online accounts against unauthorized access cannot be overstated. According to Google Cloud’s 2023 Threat Horizons Report, a staggering 86% of breaches involve stolen credentials, making robust password management crucial in today's landscape. The 2023 Verizon Data Breach Investigations Report further emphasizes this point, revealing that 74% of all breaches involve human error or misuse, including the use of stolen credentials. Web application attacks, which account for a significant 25% of breaches, often exploit vulnerabilities and stolen credentials to gain unauthorized access to valuable assets. In a high-profile incident in 2023, the American Bar Association disclosed a hack affecting 1.5 million members, highlighting the widespread risk of compromised login credentials. As we observe World Password Day, it's imperative to explore solutions that enhance our digital security. One such solution is password managers. These tools offer a secure and convenient way to manage passwords, safeguarding accounts against unauthorized access and simplifying the login process.

Simplify & Secure Your Logins with Top Password Managers

This World Password Day, we present your ultimate defense – the top 10 best password managers to simplify logins and fortify your online safety.

1. Google Password Manager

Google Password Manager simplifies the process of managing passwords by enabling users to create and store strong, unique passwords for their online accounts. Passwords can be saved in the user's Google Account or on their device. An important feature of Google Password Manager is its ability to suggest strong passwords when saving them to the Google Account, enhancing overall security. Additionally, users can benefit from the following features:
Pros
  • Free: Google Password Manager is completely free, making it accessible to all Google Chrome users.
  • Integrated into Chrome: Chrome users have access to Google's password manager without needing to install additional software.
  • Consistent support: Given Chrome's popularity, Google Password Manager is likely to receive regular updates and support.
Cons
  • Uncertain security: Google doesn't provide detailed information about the encryption standards used to protect user data, leaving some uncertainty about its security measures.
  • Limited to Chrome: Google Password Manager is only available in the Chrome browser, excluding users of other browsers from accessing its features.
Who Should Use Google Password Manager?
Google Password Manager is suitable for individual users, especially those who already use Chrome and prefer not to install third-party password management software. However, it may not be suitable for businesses or groups due to the lack of group password management options. Despite being free, Google Password Manager lacks certain features and flexibility offered by standalone services, which may make it less appealing to users seeking advanced functionality. This limitation prevents it from being considered one of the best free password managers on the market.

2. 1Password

1Password provides robust security features, including end-to-end encryption, a secret key for enhanced protection, and biometric logins. Its Travel Mode feature ensures sensitive data is removed from devices when crossing borders, while the Watchtower service regularly scans for website breaches and vulnerable passwords, maintaining the security of user credentials.
Pros
  • 1Password offers a comprehensive tutorial, making it easy for new users to get started.
  • The Watchtower feature alerts users to potential password vulnerabilities, helping them maintain strong password hygiene.
  • The 1Password apps are well-designed and visually appealing, providing a seamless experience across mobile and desktop platforms.
  • Users can easily organize their passwords and other sensitive information, enhancing usability.
Cons
  • Unlike some competitors, 1Password doesn't offer a free tier for password management, which may deter budget-conscious users.
  • Users may find the import options limited, especially when migrating from other password managers.
  • 1Password lacks true password inheritance features, making it less convenient for sharing passwords among family or team members.
Who Should Use 1Password?
1Password is ideal for individuals and businesses seeking advanced security features and intuitive password management. Its comprehensive tutorial makes it suitable for users of all experience levels. However, the lack of a free tier may make it less appealing to users on a tight budget.
Pricing
1Password offers various pricing plans, including individual, family, Teams Starter Pack, and business options. Individual plans start at $2.99 per month when billed annually, while family plans start at $4.99 per month for up to five family members. Teams Starter Pack are available at $19.95 to protect upto 10 team members per month. Business plans are available starting at $7.99 per user per month.

3. Dashlane

Dashlane offers more than just password management, providing additional features like dark web monitoring and a VPN for secure browsing. Its one-click password changer can update passwords across numerous sites simultaneously, ensuring strong security with minimal effort. Dashlane's intuitive interface and strong security features make it suitable for both personal and organizational use.
Pros
  • Includes VPN and phishing alerts
  • Scans for compromised accounts
  • Retains full password history
  • Offers file storage
Cons
  • Limited free version
  • Expensive
Who Should Use Dashlane?
Dashlane is well-suited for individuals or organizations looking for comprehensive password management and additional security features. Its robust tools make it particularly appealing for those who prioritize security and are willing to invest in a premium solution.
Pricing
Dashlane offers various pricing tiers, including Personal and Professional plans. In the Personal Plan, options include Premium for individual protection plus VPN, starting at $4.99 per month billed annually, and Friends & Family for up to 10 accounts, starting at $7.49 per month for 10 members billed annually. For the Professional Plan, options include Business for advanced protection at $8 per seat per month billed annually, and Enterprise for large organizations, with pricing available upon request.

4. Bitwarden

Bitwarden stands out as an open-source password management tool, offering transparent, customizable, and secure solutions. It allows users to host their server, providing ultimate control over their data. Bitwarden's affordable plans, including a fully functional free version, make it a top choice for individuals and businesses seeking flexibility and transparency in their software.
Pros
Cons
  • Business tiers are relatively expensive compared to competitors
Who Should Use Bitwarden?
  • Individuals: Anyone who wants to securely manage passwords across devices.
  • Families: For secure password sharing and family organization.
  • Businesses: From startups to enterprises for secure team password management.
  • Tech Enthusiasts: Open-source platform for customization and contribution.
Pricing
Bitwarden offers various pricing tiers, including Teams and Enterprise plans. The Teams plan provides resilient protection for growing teams, starting at $4 per month per user billed annually. For larger organizations, the Enterprise plan offers advanced capabilities, priced at $6 per month per user billed annually.

5. Keeper

Keeper offers security features, including high-level encryption, zero-knowledge architecture, and two-factor authentication. Its comprehensive approach extends to secure file storage and a private messaging service, making it a versatile security tool. With the ability to securely manage multiple passwords and digital information, Keeper is suitable for both personal and business use.
Pros
  • Secure password-sharing, password hygiene, and emergency access options
  • Attractive apps and browser extensions for ease of use
  • Retains app access and credential history for reference
Cons
  • A very restrictive free tier with limited features
  • Some desirable features are only available as paid add-ons
  • Importing credentials could be smoother
Who Should Use Keeper?
Keeper is an ideal choice for individuals and businesses looking for strong security solutions. It is suitable for:
  • Individuals: Those who need a secure and user-friendly platform to manage their passwords and sensitive information.
  • Families: Families looking for a secure way to share passwords and sensitive data among members while ensuring privacy and security.
  • Businesses: Companies of all sizes seek a secure password management solution for their employees, with features like password sharing, team folders, and admin controls.
Pricing
Keeper's pricing varies depending on the plan chosen, which includes options for individuals, families, and businesses

6. NordPass

NordPass, developed by cybersecurity experts, provides a user-friendly interface and robust encryption technologies. Noteworthy features include an OCR scanner for digitizing information from physical documents and a built-in password health tool for maintaining strong passwords. With its zero-knowledge architecture, NordPass ensures that even it cannot access your stored data.
Pros
Cons
  • Inconsistent credential creation process.
  • Limited free tier.
Who Should Use NordPass?
NordPass is ideal for individuals and businesses seeking a secure and easy-to-use password management solution. It is best suited for:
  • Individuals: Those looking for a reliable tool to manage and secure their passwords and sensitive information.
  • Families: Families seeking a secure way to share passwords and ensure digital security among members.
  • Businesses: Companies require a secure password management solution for their employees, with features like team collaboration and admin controls.
Pricing
NordPass offers three plans: Teams, Business, and Enterprise. Teams plan costs $1.99 per user per month, Business plan costs $3.99 per user per month, and Enterprise plan costs $5.99 per user per month.

7. RoboForm

RoboForm specializes in web form filling and password management, making it invaluable for professionals who frequently fill out online forms. It offers secure sharing, folder organization, and emergency access, a feature allowing trusted contacts access in critical situations. RoboForm’s versatility extends to businesses with full support for employee onboarding and offboarding.
Pros
  • Good business-specific features.
  • Full feature 14-day free trial available for business users.
  • Great mobile apps.
Cons
  • Unintuitive interface.
  • Secured shared folder not available for free users.
Who Should Use RoboForm?
RoboForm is best suited for professionals, families, and businesses looking for an efficient solution for managing passwords and filling out online forms. It is particularly suitable for:
  • Professionals: Individuals who frequently deal with online forms and require secure password management.
  • Families: Families seeking a secure password management solution for multiple users.
  • Businesses: Companies require robust password management and form-filling capabilities for employees, with features like secure sharing and emergency access.
Pricing
RoboForm offers two plans: Personal & Family and Team & Business. Pricing options vary depending on the user's needs.

8. Zoho Vault

Zoho Vault seamlessly integrates with other Zoho products and offers extensive features designed for team collaboration. Its direct integration with popular business tools like Microsoft Office and Google Workspace enhances productivity while maintaining security. Features like user access and permissions management make it ideal for managing team passwords.
Pros
  • Offers MFA support and passkey logins.
  • Easy password sharing and credential inheritance system.
  • Password hygiene monitoring for all service tiers.
  • Users can designate application-specific passwords.
  • Robust free plan.
Cons
  • Stores unencrypted user information.
  • Awkward MFA adoption process.
  • Clunky browser extension functionality.
  • Cannot fill out web forms.
  • Few personal data storage options.
  • Confusing credential creation process on iOS.
Who Should Use Zoho Vault?
Zoho Vault is best suited for businesses and teams looking for a secure and collaborative password management solution. It is particularly suitable for:
  • Businesses: Companies require a robust password management solution with features like user access management and seamless integration with business tools.
  • Teams: Teams seeking an efficient way to manage passwords and securely share credentials among members.
  • Professionals: Individuals looking for a secure password management solution with features like multi-factor authentication and credential inheritance.
Pricing
Apart from offering a free plan, Zoho Vault has three paid plans: Standard, Professional, and Enterprise. The Standard plan costs US$0.90 per user per month billed annually. The Professional plan costs US$4.50 per user per month billed annually (minimum 5 users), and the Enterprise plan costs US$7.20 per user per month billed annually (minimum 5 users).

9. LogMeOnce

LogMeOnce stands out for its rich feature set, offering innovative functionalities such as photo login, allowing users to log in by taking a photo with their device, adding both convenience and security. It boasts a comprehensive dashboard for security management and supports various two-factor authentication methods, catering to both individual and enterprise needs.
Pros
  • Free version available.
  • Diverse multi-factor authentication (MFA) options.
  • Unique emergency access tool.
  • High-quality onboarding tutorial.
Cons
  • The credential filling didn't work with the Android app in testing.
  • Awkward password-importing process.
  • Cluttered web vault interface.
Who Should Use LogMeOnce?
LogMeOnce is suitable for individuals, families, and businesses seeking a feature-rich password management solution. It is particularly beneficial for:
  • Individuals: Those who want a secure and convenient way to manage their passwords and ensure strong online security.
  • Families: Families looking for a secure password management solution for multiple users with features like photo login and emergency access.
  • Businesses/Enterprises: Companies requiring advanced password management and security features for their employees, with options for team collaboration and secure sharing.
Pricing
LogMeOnce offers two plans: Personal & Family and Team & Business/Enterprise. Pricing options vary depending on the user's needs.

10. Enpass

Enpass stands out for its offline capabilities, allowing users to store their data locally and sync across devices via their preferred cloud service. Its one-time fee model appeals to those seeking a cost-effective solution without ongoing subscriptions. Enpass supports a wide range of customizations and file attachments for each entry.
Pros
  • Offline capabilities
  • One-time fee option
  • Extensive customization
Cons
  • Not user-friendly
  • No trial version for personal and family plans
Who Should Use Enpass?
Enpass is best suited for individuals and businesses looking for a secure and customizable password management solution. It is particularly suitable for:
  • Individuals: Users who prioritize offline access to their password data and prefer a one-time payment model.
  • Families: Families seeking a secure and cost-effective way to manage passwords across multiple devices.
  • Businesses: Companies require robust password management and customization options for employees, with features like team sharing and data backups.
Pricing
Enpass offers two plans: Personal & Family and Business. Pricing options vary depending on the user's needs.

To Wrap Up

With a plethora of options available, there's a perfect password manager for everyone. Consider your needs, budget, and desired features when making your choice. Remember, World Password Day is a great reminder to prioritize your online security throughout the year. Implement a strong password manager today and take control of your digital safety! Media Disclaimer: This report is based on internal and external research obtained through various means. The information provided is for reference purposes only, and users bear full responsibility for their reliance on it. The Cyber Express assumes no liability for the accuracy or consequences of using this information.

How to protect yourself from online harassment

10 April 2024 at 15:19

It takes a little to receive a lot of online hate today, from simply working as a school administrator to playing a role in a popular movie or video game.

But these moments of personal crisis have few, immediate solutions, as the current proposals to curb and stem online harassment zero in on the systemic—such as changes in data privacy laws to limit the personal information that can be weaponized online or calls for major social media platforms to better moderate hateful content and its spread.

Such structural shifts can take years (if they take place at all), which can leave today’s victims feeling helpless.

There are, however, a few steps that everyday people can take, starting now, to better protect themselves against online hate and harassment campaigns. And thankfully, none of them involve “just getting off the internet,” a suggestion that, according to Leigh Honeywell, is both ineffective and unwanted.

“The [idea that the] answer to being bullied is that you shouldn’t be able to participate in public life—I don’t think that’s okay,” said Honeywell, CEO and co-founder of the digital safety consultancy Tall Poppy.

Speaking to me on the Lock and Code podcast last month, Honeywell explained that Tall Poppy’s defense strategies to online harassment incorporate best practices from Honeywell’s prior industry—cybersecurity.

Here are a few steps that people can proactively take to limit online harassment before it happens.

Get good at Googling yourself

One of the first steps in protecting yourself from online harassment is finding out what information about you is already available online. This is because, as Honeywell said, much of that information can be weaponized for abuse.

Picture an angry diner posting a chef’s address on Yelp alongside a poor review, or a complete stranger sending in a fake bomb threat to a school address, or a real-life bully scraping the internet for embarrassing photos of someone they want to harass.  

All this information could be available online, and the best way to know if it exists is to do the searching yourself.

As for where to start?

“First name, last name, city name, or other characteristics about yourself,” Honeywell said, listing what, specifically, to search online.

It’s important to understand that the online search itself may not bring immediate results, but it will likely reveal active online profiles on platforms like LinkedIn, X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and Instagram. If those profiles are public, an angry individual could scrape relevant information and use it to their advantage. Even a LinkedIn profile could be weaponized by someone who calls in fake complaints to a person’s employer, trying to have them fired from their position.

In combing through the data that you can find about yourself online, Honeywell said people should focus on what someone else could do with that data.

“If an adversary was trying to find out information about me, what would they find?” Honeywell said. “If they had that information, what would they do with it?”

Take down what you can

You’ve found what an adversary might use against you online. Now it’s time to take it down.

Admittedly, this can be difficult in the United States, as Americans are not protected by a national data privacy law that gives them the right to request their data be deleted from certain websites, platforms, and data brokers.

Where Americans could find some help, however, is from online resources and services that streamline the data removal process that is enshrined in some state laws. These tools, like the iOS app Permission Slip, released by Consumer Reports in 2022, show users what types of information companies are collecting about them, and give user the opportunity to request that such data be deleted.

Separately, Google released on online tool in 2023 where users can request that certain search results that contain their personal information be removed. You can learn more about the tool, called “Results about you,” here.

When all else fails, Honeywell said that people shouldn’t be afraid to escalate the situation to their state’s regulators. That could include filing an official complaint with a State Attorney General, or with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, or the Federal Trade Commission.

“It sounds like the big guns,” Honeywell said, “but I think it’s important that, as individuals, we do what we can to hold the companies that are creating this mess accountable.”

Lock down your accounts

If an adversary can’t find your information through an online search, they may try to steal that information by hacking into your accounts, Honeywell said.

“If I’m mad at David, I’m going to hack into David’s email and share personal information,” Honeywell said. “That’s a fairly standard way that we see some of the worst online harassment attacks escalate.”

While hackers may have plenty of novel tools at their disposal, the best defenses you can implement today are the use of unique passwords and multifactor authentication.

Let’s first talk about unique passwords.

Each and every single one of your online accounts—from your email, to your social media profiles, to your online banking—should have a strong, unique password. And because you likely have dozens upon dozens of online accounts to manage, you should keep track of all those passwords with a devoted password manager.

Using unique passwords is one of the best defenses to company data breaches that expose user login credentials. Once those credentials are available on the dark web, hackers will buy those credentials so they can attempt to use them to gain access to other online accounts. You can prevent those efforts going forward by refusing to repeat passwords across any of your online accounts.

Now, start using multifactor authentication, if you’re not already.

Multifactor authentication is offered by most major companies and services today, from your bank, to your email, to your medical provider. By using multifactor authentication, also called MFA or 2FA, you will be required to “authenticate” yourself with more than just your password. This means that when you enter your username and password onto a site or app, you will also be prompted with entering a separate code that is, in many cases, sent to your phone via text or an app.

MFA is one of the strongest protections to password abuse, ensuring that, even if a hacker has your username and password, they still can’t access your account because they will not have the additional authentication that is required to complete a login.

In the world of cybersecurity, these two defense practices are among the gold standard in stopping cyberattacks. In the world of online harassment, they’re much the same—they work to prevent the abuse of your online accounts.

Here to help

Online harassment is an isolating experience, but protecting yourself against it can be quite the opposite. Honeywell suggested that, for those who feel overwhelmed or who do not know where to start, they can find a friend to help.

“Buddy up,” Honeywell said. “If you’ve got a friend who’s good at Googling, work on each other’s profile, identify what information is out there about you.”

Honeywell also recommended going through data takedown requests together, as the processes can be “extremely tedious” and some of the services that promise to remove your information from the internet are really only trying to sell you a service.

If you’re still wondering what information about you is online and you aren’t comfortable with your way around Google, Malwarebytes has a new, free tool that reveals what information of yours is available on the dark web and across the internet at large. The Digital Footprint Portal, released in April, provides free, unlimited scans for everyone, and it can serve as a strong first step in understanding what information of yours needs to be locked down.

To learn what information about you has been exposed online, use our free scanner below.

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