Usernames and passwords are often the last lines of defense when it comes to information security. However, when in need of products or services, the majority of people are easily willing to give up this security to employees and contractors. This can often lead you to feel vulnerable and employees and contractors feeling exposed.
Establishing trust from the get-go by taking proactive measures to ensure everyone is on the same page is crucial for building a positive and long-lasting professional relationship. Ultimately, it is important that your employees and contractors have adequate access to do their job efficiently – unfortunately, there is no foolproof way of getting around this issue. However, here are a few tips to help you coordinate with your employees and contractors like a pro!
Tips for Information Security
Create Individual User Names
Many tools offer you the option of adding a user to your account, as well as manage the access they have. With some of these programs, you might have to pay a small monthly fee to utilize these features. However, the information security and peace of mind is often worth the few extra bucks!
Use an Encrypted Password Manager
One of our favorite ways to secure both internal and client usernames and passwords is using LastPass, an encrypted password manager. This software also allows you to securely store other types of data, such as credit card information, wifi networks, and diver license numbers. They also have the LastPass Extension available, which auto-populates your usernames and passwords. We find that the Mobile LastPass App is great staying connected when you are on the go.
LastPass also allows you to add users to your team and decide which username and passwords you need to share with them the extension will auto-populate that information for them, so they (and you) never need to memorize or keep an unsecured list. You can update and revoke access whenever you need to, giving you peace of mind.
Be Smart: Only Share What’s Necessary
If you insist on sending your employees and contractors an old fashion list of usernames and passwords, only send them the usernames and passwords that they need. Although it feels easy for you to send over your master list of usernames and passwords, cutting corners for the sake of convenience can put both you and your employees and contractors in an uncomfortable position.