More than 75 percent of business attacks on corporate networks are caused by weak passwords, according to RoboForm.

Passwords help form the foundation for the security of your business’ confidential and critical information, but only when they are safe and strong.

Below we overview why proper password management for business security system equipment, devices and networks is critical. We also provide best practices to prevent hackers from compromising your data.

Why Is Password Protection Important?

Enforcing password policies across all devices and equipment, such as laptops, networks, surveillance cameras, security monitoring systems, etc. can help increase security at your business. By adding an extra layer of protection to your company’s critical data, you are decreasing the chance of information falling into the wrong hands. This can include information like credit card data, patient medical files, financial records, encrypted files, or Wi-Fi connection details.

What some businesses might not realize is how important a comprehensive password strategy truly is. When businesses don’t protect some devices at all, or don’t require strong passwords, they could be exposing their networks to the public and hackers.

If outside parties gain access to your company’s information, it could lead to problems like identify theft, stolen credit card information, trade secrets and more, leaving your business, employees and customers in danger. This begs the question: how can you make your password stronger?

Let’s find out below.

How Can I Improve Password Security?

Now that you understand more about why password strength and security is critical, it’s also important to implement and follow best practices. Here are some ways your business and employees can ensure proper password management to keep your sensitive information safe:

  • Maintain and enforce a password policy for anyone accessing network resources.
  • Isolate and restrict systems where possible to prevent password guessing and hacking by outsiders.
  • Don’t reuse the same password for multiple accounts, devices or equipment.
  • Be conscious of typing in passwords in front of other individuals.
  • Don’t store passwords in systems or browsers that allow you or other employees to automatically login.
  • Log off immediately after accessing information, especially if it’s confidential.
  • Do not access systems or equipment over insecure, unencrypted connections, such as public Wi-Fi.
  • Make passwords long and difficult to guess by using uppercase letters, numbers and symbols.
  • Change passwords every six months to a year.
  • Pay close attention to login activity and whether or not passwords are updated without authorization.
  • Prevent unwanted or unnecessary access to certain information by giving passwords only to authorized individuals.
  • Always update default factory passwords with your own unique ones when you purchase a device.
  • Require employees to use passwords if you allow a “Bring Your Own Device” (BYOD) policy in the workplace.

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