Security experts believe password reuse is a ticking time bomb. When you’re in a rush to create a new profile or new account for a website, it may be tempting to type in the first password that comes to your head, usually followed by a generic string of numbers such as 1234 or 0000.
Some of the most common passwords aren’t even phrases, they’re just easily predictable numbers. ‘123456’, ‘qwerty’, and even ‘password’ were worryingly revealed to be in the top list of most common passwords in [year].
Another [year] survey found 82 percent of Americans have re-used their password on other websites and perhaps more worryingly, 48 percent of Americans have entered this information while connected to a dangerous public Wi-Fi network.
All of this information is concerning. When you’re using weak passwords or inputting sensitive information over unsecured networks, you’re putting yourself at risk of being scammed by online criminals.
While using a VPN is one of the most effective ways of protecting yourself online, VPNs can only offer so much protection against poor password decisions.
If someone is able to guess your password, a VPN can’t protect you. With that in mind, it’s always worth combining the protection that a VPN can offer with a password manager.
What is a Password Manager?
A password manager is a piece of software that securely stores all of your online passwords. This information is encrypted, so if you’re using a password manager while connected to a VPN, you’ve got double encryption protection.
Better still, one of the biggest benefits of using a password manager is they can determine whether or not your passwords are strong enough and can even generate passwords for you.
We understand how difficult it can be to memorize tens or sometimes even hundreds of different passwords. Using a password manager takes that stress and difficulty away.
Why You Need a VPN and a Password Manager
Two layers of encryption will make it almost impossible for criminals to access your online information. Even though password managers are encrypted, you wouldn’t want to leave yourself vulnerable by opening your password manager over an unsecured connection.
When you’re connected to a VPN, it ensures that no prying eyes will be able to see the information you’re inputting when you use your password manager.
Just like VPNs, there are lots of password managers to choose from. Keep reading to find out the best ones.
1. Dashlane
Dashlane simplifies your personal password keeping by filling all of your passwords, payments, and personal details whenever you need them, no matter what device you’re on. You’ll never have to worry about forgetting your passwords, or coming up with new ones, ever again.
2. Password Boss
With automatic website logins and protection from security breaches, Password Boss keeps everything in one safe, encrypted place.
If you’re worried you’ve ever been exposed or the victim of hacking, Password Boss’ dark web scans allow you to search your passwords and check if they’ve ever fallen into the hands of the wrong people.
3. Keeper Security
Keeper has picked up numerous awards over the years, making it one of the top-rated password managers currently available. It’s not one of the cheapest, which makes it more suited for businesses and large enterprises, but there’s a lot more on offer than just simple password protection.
Keeper also offers private messaging, dark web monitoring and even a place to securely store your files online.
4. LastPass
The coolest-named password protector is also one of the best. LastPass remembers and safely stores an unlimited number of passwords on your browser and on multiple devices.
To put your password worries to bed, all you’ll need to do is choose a master password for your log-in information and LastPass will take care of the rest. From there, you’ll be able to add passwords for individual websites and you can even share them with other family members or individuals.
5. BitWarden
As one of the easiest ways for individuals, businesses, and teams to organize, share and store sensitive data, BitWarden actually allows you to create an account completely free, although you will be limited with the number of passwords you can store.
Its secure cloud syncing lets you access password information and data from anywhere and on any device.
Summary
In [year], it’s no longer safe to be using the same password across multiple sites, nor is it convenient to have all of your passwords written in a notebook or scribbled on a whiteboard at work. With many of the best password managers offering their services for free, there’s really no excuse to not be using a password manager.
Just make sure you’re combining the benefits of a password manager with the additional security features of a VPN to make sure you’re always fully protected online.