Why you need a Password Manager

Do you currently use a password manager? If not, why?

I don't get mad at people for not using a password manager, actually, I feel bad for them. In most cases, they have no idea how easily their online accounts can be hacked. For those of us who know, it is terrifying to realize how easily our family and friends could get hacked. We go to great lengths to ensure we are secure, but that doesn't stop us from worrying because we know that everyone and everything is able to be hacked.

So why should everyone use a password manager?

There are many reasons, the first being that a password manager makes it easier to have long and unique passwords for every website we use. Many people use the same password over and over because they can't remember a new one. With a password manager, you only need to remember the "Master Password" The rest are stored and you can retrieve them as needed. Note: If you forget your Master Password, there is no recovery process.

Which password manager should I use?

That is entirely up to you, but I will list a few so you can research them for yourself.

Bitwarden This is what I use personally, it is very well trusted in the security community and independantly audited. Free or $12/year for premium

KeyPassXC One of the less well-known, but a very secure password manager.

NordPass Nord is a great company. I have personally never used this product, but I know their reputation and I use their other products.

LessPass Remember one master password to access your passwords, anywhere, anytime, from any device. No sync needed.

Another thing I would like to mention is the extra layer of security you can have by generating a unique username for every account you have. This may sound like I'm going a bit overboard, but let me tell you why this is important. Lets say someone hacks one of your accounts. They will then take that username you had and try it against dozens of other services, to see where else you use the same name. This gives them an advantage and makes it a little easier to hack your other accounts as well.

The hackers will only get more creative in the coming years, I highly recommend you start using a password manager today. You should also make sure your kids and other family should all be using one as well. If you have any questions, you can email me and I will be glad to help you get started.