It’s 2021, and using printed password keepers or logs is no longer a secure or recommended practice for managing your passwords. Here are some key reasons why you should avoid using printed password lists:
- Physical vulnerability: Written passwords can be easily lost, stolen, or viewed by unauthorized people. If someone gains access to your printed password list, all your accounts are compromised at once.
- Lack of encryption: Unlike digital password managers, printed lists have no encryption or security measures protecting the information.
- Difficulty updating: It’s cumbersome to update printed lists when you change passwords, leading to outdated and inaccurate information.
- Limited accessibility: You can only access printed passwords when you have the physical list with you, which is inconvenient for digital accounts.
- Encourages weak passwords: To make passwords easier to write down and remember, people often use simpler, less secure passwords.
Instead of printed password keepers, consider using a reputable digital password manager. These offer several advantages:
- Strong encryption: Password managers use robust encryption to protect your data.
- Automatic updates: They can update and sync your passwords across devices automatically.
- Password generation: Most password managers can generate strong, unique passwords for each account.
- Multi-factor authentication: Many offer additional security layers like two-factor authentication.
- Cross-platform accessibility: You can access your passwords securely from multiple devices.
- Auto-fill capability: Password managers can automatically fill in login information, improving convenience and reducing the risk of keyloggers.
Some popular and secure password manager options include:
- Passvault (open-source and free)
- LastPass
- 1Password
- Dashlane
- KeePassXC (offline, open-source option)
When choosing a password manager, ensure it uses strong encryption, has a good reputation for security, and offers features that meet your needs. Remember to use a strong, unique master password for your password manager and enable two-factor authentication if available. By moving away from printed password keepers and adopting a secure digital password manager, you can significantly enhance your online security and make password management more convenient and efficient.