A password manager is a software application or service that helps users store and manage their passwords and other sensitive information in a secure way. It typically uses encryption to protect the information and can automatically fill in login forms on websites or apps, generate strong passwords, and alert users to potential security issues. This allows users to use complex, unique passwords for each account without having to remember them all.
Is it safe to use password manager?
In general, using a password manager can be a very safe way to store and manage your passwords and other sensitive information. Many password managers use strong encryption to protect your data, and they can also include additional security features such as two-factor authentication. However, it is important to use a reputable password manager and to follow best practices for securing it, such as using a strong master password, protecting your device and keeping your operating system and apps up to date. Also, keep in mind that if the password manager itself is hacked, or if you fall for a phishing scam and give away your master password, then all your data stored in it could be compromised.
Are the passwords stored on my device?
The location where the passwords are stored can vary depending on the password manager you are using. Some password managers store the passwords on the user's device, while others store them in the cloud or on the company's servers. In the case of password managers that store the passwords on the user's device, the passwords are usually encrypted and can only be accessed with the user's master password. This can provide an additional layer of security, as the passwords are not stored on a remote server that could be hacked. However, if the user's device is lost or stolen, the passwords could be compromised if the device is not properly secured. On the other hand, password managers that store the passwords in the cloud, typically use encryption to protect the passwords and other sensitive information and are only accessible with the user's master password. This can make it more convenient to access your passwords from multiple devices, but it also means that the data is stored on a remote server that could be hacked. In either case, it's important to research and use a reputable password manager, and to make sure to read their terms and privacy policy before deciding which one to use.
What companies offer password managers?
There are several companies that offer password manager services, including:
LastPass: a widely used password manager that allows you to store and manage your passwords, credit card information, and other sensitive information.
1Password: another popular password manager that offers a variety of features such as password generation, two-factor authentication, and the ability to store and share passwords with others.
Dashlane: a password manager that offers a variety of security features such as password generation, two-factor authentication and a dark web monitoring.
Keeper: a password manager that offers features such as password generation, two-factor authentication, and the ability to store and share passwords with others.
Bitwarden: An open-source password manager that offers features such as password generation, two-factor authentication, and a cloud-based and self-hosted options.
Roboform: a password manager that offers password generation, two-factor authentication and can automatically fill in login forms on websites.
These are just a few examples, there are many other password managers available in the market, some of them are free and others are paid. It's important to research and compare different options to find one that fits your needs and budget.
Was lastpass hacked?
In June 15, 2015, LastPass announced a security incident in which hackers accessed email addresses, password reminders, server per user salts, and authentication hashes. The company stated that the attackers did not gain access to user's master password or any encrypted user data. They also found no evidence that decrypted data was taken and said that all user data is still safely encrypted. In 2019 LastPass also announced that it detected and blocked suspicious activity on its network, which could have potentially exposed email addresses, password reminders, and other security information for some users. The company stated that the attackers did not gain access to any encrypted user data, including user's master password and that there was no evidence that user's data was taken. It's worth noting that LastPass has an array of security measures in place and use advanced encryption to protect user's data. They also have regular security audits and penetration testing, and are transparent about any security incidents that occur. LastPass is one of the most popular password managers in the market, and it's important to note that no service can guarantee 100% security, and any company, regardless of size or industry, can fall victim to a cyber-attack. It's always a good idea to keep an eye on the company's security updates and announcements, and to follow general security best practices like enabling two-factor authentication and using a unique, strong master password. As recently as 2022 LastPass was also hacked.
What can we conclude about password managers?
In conclusion, password managers can be a very useful tool for securely storing and managing your passwords and other sensitive information. They typically use encryption to protect your data and can include additional security features such as two-factor authentication. However, it is important to use a reputable password manager and to follow best practices for securing it, such as using a strong master password, protecting your device and keeping your operating system and apps up to date. It is also important to note that password managers can store the passwords on the user's device or on the company's servers, which can provide an additional layer of security, but also could expose the data in case of a security breach or device loss. It's also important to remember that no service can guarantee 100% security, and any company can fall victim to a cyber-attack. It's always a good idea to keep an eye on the company's security updates and announcements, and to follow general security best practices like enabling two-factor authentication and using a unique, strong master password. Overall, password managers can be a great way to make sure that you are using unique, strong passwords for all of your accounts and to keep your information safe from hackers and malicious actors.