Wednesday, October 3, 2012


Automatic Passwords

Don't do it!  When you login to any system, you are generally prompted for two items:

  •  Use Name

  • Password

Several software applications and websites allow you to select a check box to ”remember” your password. Don't do it!  This is a terrible security breach.  When you select “remember” the password is on the hard drive, anyone can use your account. 

 If you go to a meeting or step away from the PC, the password is in memory and anyone who clicks on the link can use it. For those who have a locked office, it is still not recommended to “remember” your password.

Another reason not to check the box is if you enter the password every day, this is like “muscle memory” and will force you to enter the passwords every time you access the software.

So, don't do it!  It’s just too risky.

2 comments:

  1. Great recommendation, Debra! I like the reference to muscle memory. It's interesting how my fingers just know where to go even with the most complicated password. Of course, I have to make sure that they are in the right spot on the keyboard.

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  2. Hi,
    I like the "muscle memory" idea -- thank you! Great tip. Maura

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