Are passwords passé?
used with permission from HP Tech@Work
Is my password still enough, or do I need more?
Without question, security is critical these days. Whether it’s device, online, or mobile security, the need for protection is obvious, and the risk can’t be ignored.
For years, that protection has centered on a login… and a password. But has that changed?
Oh, that password. We’ve been reminded us for years not to write it down. Not to keep it anywhere that someone could find it. Which has made more than a few people prone to forgetting it. Show of hands, anyone?
Then there’s the issue of using a unique password for every account. Considering we have an ever-increasing number of password-protected accounts, for everything from banking to gaming — and the apps that go with them — this can be exhausting.
Add to that the known problems with public networks, and the risks you and your mobile workers face daily when trying to do business from the road and you have a recipe for sleepless nights.
What to do?
Get Help
Don’t be afraid to take advantage of the latest tools available to you. Password manager apps are great at simplifying things, allowing you or your team to create secure passwords, and keep it all locked safely behind the one and only password you have to remember. Try one of these, or search the web for one that best fits your needs:
With so many free options available, and well-tested and reviewed paid apps, there really are no more excuses for not setting one up and breathing a sigh of relief.
Okay, with that out of the way, what’s next?
Look into My Eyes
In a word: Biometrics. Today, many laptops have optional fingerprint readers, as do our phones and other mobile devices. More and more mobile apps are using fingerprints as first or second form of identification, as well as to simplify the login process.
Beyond fingerprints, other options today include facial recognition, heart rate authentication, random temporary passwords, Apple’s Face ID, and Windows Hello — which is optional on select HP products, like our EliteBooks. There are also apps that lock down your PC when you walk away from it, like HP WorkWise. Pick the solution or solutions that work best for you and your team.
Don’t overlook the anti-theft, tracking, and erasing apps and services for your mobile workers either. The solutions are improving and there are more choices available including those from Windows, Android, iPhone, Google and others (including HP).
Can You Give Me a Boost?
Two-step, or multi-factor authentication can add an extra layer of protection to your current password program. Pairing something you know, like your (hopefully secure) password with something you have, like a biometric, a sent code, and/or a known personal fact can further ensure your account is kept away from prying eyes. You may have noticed many companies are already adding this additional level of security to their accounts. You can learn the basics quickly in these short videos.
But What Does This Mean for Your Business?
Data breaches will not be disappearing anytime soon if the experts turn out to be correct. But you can protect yourself and your business with any number of easy-to-implement solutions. Maintaining high levels of security may simply mean polishing up your current techniques, and reconfirming that you have the protections in place to keep your company’s devices and data safe. It may also be worth taking a look at the features built into many HP products to give you an extra boost of protection.
Is the password passé? No, but it no longer stands alone. Make sure your business is keeping up.
