Background Introduction
Video Tutorial:
In this digital age, we are all forced to create different accounts for various online platforms. Each account requires a separate username and password, which can be quite cumbersome to remember. The use of different credentials for each account is a security measure, but it also poses a challenge of how to remember them all. The process of resetting forgotten passwords is also quite frustrating, especially when you need to access an account urgently.
One of the ways to make that process less tiresome is to save your usernames and passwords. This article will provide you with various methods that could be used to make that possible. We’ll also examine the pros and cons of each method and provide tips on how to maximize the security of your passwords.
The Challenge of Saving Usernames and Passwords
Saving usernames and passwords might seem like a simple task, but in reality, it’s quite challenging. Most people have experienced a situation where their device got stolen or was accessed by an unauthorized person. In such a scenario, any saved usernames and passwords would be visible to the thief. Therefore, it’s crucial to find a secure way to save your login credentials.
Things You Should Prepare for
Before we dive into the methods, there are a few things you should keep in mind. One, never share your login credentials with anyone else. Two, always use a strong password; one that comprises of characters from different aspects of life ( numeric, alphabetic, and symbols.). Three, be sure to regularly update your passwords. Four, use Two Factor Authentication where possible, it adds an extra layer of security ensuring that you’re the only one accessing your accounts.
Method 1: Browser Password Management
Most web browsers like Firefox, Google Chrome, Safari, and Microsoft Edge have an in-built password management feature. This feature lets you save your usernames and passwords securely and fills in those details automatically when you visit the same site again.
Pros:
1. Secure and easy to use
2. Encrypted and protected by your device password
3. Integrated into your browser
Cons:
1. Not cross-platform – Passwords saved here will only be available on that specific browser on that specific device.
2. Passwords can be easily accessed by any person with access to your device and can view them in plain text.
3. Passwords may not be recovered if you lose access to your computer.
Steps:
1. Open your preferred browser
2. Go to the website that you wish to save your password
3. Fill in your login details (Username/Email and password)
4. When asked if you want to save username and password, click yes
5. Next time you visit the website, your credentials will be filled in automatically.
Method 2: Password Manager Applications(*)
Password manager applications are software tools that provide a more secure and convenient way of storing your login credentials. They are third-party tools that can be installed on multiple devices; this makes it possible to access your credentials on different platforms. Such applications include 1Password, LastPass, Dashlane, Keeper and so on.
Pros:
1. Encrypted and protected by a master password
2. Cross-platform – Accessible on multiple devices.
3. Can automatically fill in your credentials on most browsers
4. The convenience of automatically generating strong passwords.
Cons:
1. Some Apps are not free
2. It’s important to choose a reliable and trustworthy app to store your credentials
3. Can still be vulnerable if someone accesses your master password.
Steps:
1. Choose the password manager application that suits your needs.
2. Install the application on your device(s)
3. Create a master password, which should be strong and never shared with anyone.
4. Start saving your login credentials inside the password manager application.
(*)Explanation from ‘Why Can’t I’ Section
Why Can’t I Save My Passwords Easily?
For many people, saving their login credentials has been a daunting task. With so many different accounts and corresponding passwords, it can be difficult to recall them when necessary. However, simply writing them down or using weak passwords can leave your accounts vulnerable to malicious activity.
Additionally, not all password-saving methods are secure and reliable. For instance, saving your passwords in your browser is convenient, but if your device gets stolen, the thief could quickly recover your usernames and passwords and log into your accounts. Similarly, some password manager apps might be unreliable and could potentially expose your credentials to hackers.
The best approach is to use a secure and reliable method, such as a password manager application, that’s reputable and trustworthy.
Method 3: Physical Methods – Notebook or Physical Secure Device (like Trezor)(*)
If you’re wary of storing your login credentials in a digital device, you could consider jotting them down in a physical notebook or card. You can either write down all your passwords in a notebook or save them on a physical secure device such as Trezor or Ledger Nano S. While this method is not as convenient as accessing your credentials from a digital device, it’s a more secure way of saving your login credentials, as only you have access to the physical storage.
Pros:
1. Secure – As only you have access to the physical storage.
2. Could be less expensive than a Password Manager Subscription
Cons:
1. Risk of losing your physical storage or forgetting where you store the notebook/card.
2. Could be less convenient, as you’ll need to type your details manually each time.
Steps:
1. Purchase a notebook or physical secure device.
2. Ensure that it’s stored in a secure place.
3. Write down all your login credentials in the notebook or save them on the physical secure device.
(*)Explanation from ‘Why Can’t I’ Section
Why Can’t I Use Any Method That I Find?
While there are several methods for saving your login credentials, all methods are not the same. Some might be more secure than others, and some might be less convenient. Before settling on a particular method, it’s best to consider the pros and cons of each one.
For example, if you’re using a browser password management feature, you’re at risk of exposing your credentials since someone can quickly access them if your device gets stolen. Similarly, some password manager applications are not secure and could expose your credentials to hackers.
Therefore, it’s essential to find a method that’s secure and easy to use based on your preference.
Additional Tips
1. Use Two-Factor Authentication – The extra layer of security ensures that you’re the only one accessing your account, even if someone has access to your password.
2. Regularly update your passwords – Changing your password frequently helps deter potential hackers from accessing your credentials.
3. Avoid using personal information – Refrain from using names, dates or events related to you or your family.
4. Don’t use the same password for multiple accounts. Doing so increases the risk of multiple accounts getting compromised.
5. Do not share your password – Ensure that your login credentials are not shared with anyone. If you have to share your password, change it afterward.
FAQs
Q. Can I keep my sensitive information such as bank details in a password manager application?
A. Yes, you can store sensitive information in some password manager applications, such as 1Password, Dashlane, and Keeper. They come with the vault feature, which adds an extra layer of security, making it difficult for hackers to access your details.
Q. Is browser password management secure?
A. While it’s a convenient feature, it’s not the most secure way of storing your login credentials. Saving your passwords in your browser means that if someone gains access to your device, they can easily view your login credentials. It’s advisable not to use the browser’s password management feature; instead, use a password manager application.
Q. Are physical methods such as notebooks still relevant?
A. Yes, notebooks are still a secure way of saving your login credentials. However, you’ll need to store them in a secure place and avoid labeling them as passwords. Physical secure devices such as Trezor are not vulnerable to a cyber-attack, but there’s still a risk of loss or theft.
Q. What makes a strong password?
A. Strong passwords should be at least eight characters long and comprise of a combination of numbers, symbols, uppercase, and lowercase letters. Avoid using personal information or dictionary words since they’re easy to crack.
Q. Can I use the same password for all my accounts?
A. No. Avoid using the same password for multiple accounts since it increases the risk of multiple accounts getting compromised.
Conclusion
Saving your login credentials is an essential yet challenging task. Using a password manager application is the most secure and convenient way of saving your usernames and passwords. While physical methods such as notebooks and secure devices are still secure options, they might be less convenient than digital methods. However, when choosing a password-saving method, it’s crucial to consider its security and vulnerability. By implementing the tips provided in this article, you’ll be sure to have a secure and easy way of saving your login credentials.