It’s crucial for small business
owners in Australia to prioritize strong password protection measures,
especially in light of prevalent cyber threats. Here are some practical steps
and strategies to enhance password security and safeguard business data:
Create Strong Passwords:
Avoid common and easily guessable passwords like “123456” or “password”. Opt instead for complex combinations that include a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
Aim for passwords that are at
least 12 characters long. Longer passwords are generally more secure against
brute-force attacks.
Use Unique Passwords for Each
Account:
Avoid the temptation to use the same password across multiple accounts. If one account is compromised, it significantly increases the risk of other accounts being breached.
Consider using a password
manager to generate and store unique passwords for each account securely.
Password managers can simplify the process of managing multiple passwords
without compromising security.
Implement Two-Factor
Authentication (2FA):
Enable two-factor authentication wherever possible. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification (such as a code sent to your phone) in addition to your password.
Regularly Update Passwords:
Periodically update passwords to further enhance security. This practice reduces the risk of long-term exposure to potential breaches.
Educate Employees:
If your business has employees
accessing company accounts, educate them on the importance of strong password
practices and the risks associated with using weak or recycled passwords.
Utilize Secure Password
Management Tools:
Consider using reputable password management tools like NordPass Password Manager or built-in options provided by web browsers (e.g., Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge). These tools can securely store and autofill passwords across different accounts.
Monitor for Breaches:
Stay vigilant for any signs of
potential security breaches. Monitor accounts regularly for unusual activity
and take prompt action if suspicious behavior is detected.
By implementing these password
protection strategies, small business owners can significantly reduce the risk
of cyberattacks and safeguard sensitive business information. Investing in
robust cybersecurity practices is essential for maintaining customer trust,
avoiding financial losses, and protecting the overall integrity of the
business.
Encourage your team to use
password hygiene
Explain to your staff the
importance of good password hygiene – both at work and for personal use.
The TechRadar/OnePulse survey
also found that around one in two people share multiple passwords between work
and personal accounts. If that’s happening in your workplace, it could threaten
the security of your business accounts.
[1]
https://cybernews.com/best-password-managers/most-common-passwords/
[2]
https://nordpass.com/most-common-passwords-list/
[3]
https://www.techradar.com/news/exclusive-most-people-still-make-up-their-own-passwords-and-reuse-them
[i]
https://www.getapp.com.au/blog/2152/password-security-australians-reuse-of-password