Earlier this month, I mentioned the importance of protecting your information by using strong and unique passwords, noting that it’s best to secure a password manager to help you maintain complicated passwords.
Password managers keep powerful passwords for all your accounts stored in a “vault” that you can access with a single master password. It’s important to do your homework and pick a trusted password manager that works best for you — after all, you’re entrusting them with all of your account credentials.
Your Better Business Bureau has tips to help you with your search, beginning with what to research and which steps will likely work best:
— Ask friends and family members what password manager they use and how they like it.
— Make a list of potential password managers to research and get started by reading as many reviews as possible.
— Read reviews on third-party websites, keeping an eye on the company’s security expertise and reputation. Also check the company out with BBB to see what rating they’ve earned and if they’ve been responsive if any complaints or reviews have been submitted.
— Check on how password managers store and encrypt data and what measures they take to avoid security breaches. Use this information to narrow down your options.
Once you’ve created your prospect list, here are some features to consider:
— Types of devices supported. Verify which devices you’ll be using and if the password managers you’re considering will support all the device types.
— Look for cross-platform compatibility. A good password manager should work seamlessly across all your devices: computers, smartphones and tablets — so you can access your passwords wherever you go.
— Look for multifactor authentication. This requires you to use more than a username and password to log in to your account. Usually, you have to verify each login with an authentication app or a code sent to your phone. Multifactor authentication is a proven cybersecurity measure that a reputable password manager should offer.
— Check for autofill and password generation tools. Look for one that automatically fills in login forms. In addition, look for a password manager that can help you generate strong, unique passwords for each account and flag you for weak or duplicate passwords.
— Data breach notifications. Look for a password manager that can notify you if your credentials are in a data breach.
— Understand how lockouts are handled. Since password managers rely on you remembering one master password, you’ll want to discover what happens if you forget it. With some password managers, a forgotten password means you’re locked out for good and must reset all your passwords. Other managers have emergency access codes or offer hints to help you remember your master password.
— Go with good customer service. If you have an issue with your password manager, you’ll want to be able to reach out to customer service right away, preferably by phone or chat. If a password manager’s only customer support option is email, you could find yourself in a pinch if they take several days to respond about the issue. Look for companies that are responsive, helpful and on hand whenever you need to contact them.
Once you’ve found a password manager that you like, there are some additional things you can do before you make your final decision:
— Test out password managers with a free trial. Once you have a couple of password managers in your sights, sign up for a free trial and give them a spin. The best password manager for you will be one that works on all your devices, is easy to use and is secure. However, be sure you understand the free trial terms, such as when to cancel, before enrolling.
— Compare paid and free versions. Many password managers offer free versions, which have certain limitations. They may only work for a single device or allow you to store a limited number of passwords. Depending on your needs, a free version might work for you. If you need a paid version, consider the pricing and your budget as you decide.
BBB serving Southeast Tennessee and Northwest Georgia’s team is here to help. You can reach us at 423-266-6144 or tngabbb@chattanooga.bbb.org.
Michele Mason is president of the Better Business Bureau in Chattanooga.