Protect Your Passwords!
Posted by Nelia Marchand on Tue, Feb 07, 2012 @ 10:01 AM
Do you ever feel like your passwords are not truly safe? It’s probably not a surprise that the very first passwords weren’t either. One of the first instances of individual password use was right here in Massachusetts at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Their Computer Time-Sharing System (CTSS) was one of the pioneers of modern-day computing technology—in fact, some CTSS applications were the foundation of modern-day operating systems. (Read more about the first passwords here: http://www.wired.com/wiredenterprise/2012/01/computer-password/)
Back then, it was revolutionary for every system user to have their own password. But they were far from safe…and not much has changed.
Today, password security is still somewhat fragile. You may think that just because your business doesn’t deal with highly sensitive data means you don’t need to be vigilant about security. TechWeb published a great refresher article for small- and medium-sized businesses on the importance of having an up-to-date password security policy. Some basic reminders include changing your passwords frequently and using complex passwords. More advanced policies and procedures should include restricting application settings and using device-lock apps.
Read the entire “9 Password Security Policies for SMBs” here: http://www.informationweek.com/news/smb/security/232500320/