What are Password Managers (PM)?
In short, they are an electronic “vault” holding your login & password for the websites you visit and the Apps you use.

There are three components stored for every website or App requiring a login.

1. The website address (URL) or Mobile/Tablet App.
2. A login ID: a unique identifier that separates you from other users (usually but not always your email address).
3. A password: a unique, strong sequence of alphanumeric and special characters (!@#$%^).

The PM keeps track of all the websites and Apps you log into.

The original benefit and application of a PM was to automatically insert your login information so as to thwart malware that track keystrokes.

Today, there are Password Managers integrated into your browser, tablet or mobile device as well as private PMs that have “plug ins” (Application Programming Interfaces or APIs) for your browser, tablet or mobile device. Also remember, most websites and Apps offer two-factor authentication (2FA). Always set up 2FA. We have talked about that in previous Board Briefs.

So, how are PMs used? What are my options for a PM? What do I need to be aware of? Great questions! We’ll be covering those in upcoming Board Briefs.

Our Advice
Be diligent and cautious when using digital tools. They are important, necessary, and useful in our everyday activities. And remember to make sure you are set up for 2FA whenever possible.

Whatever your financial need, we’re here to help.