How to Secure Your Passwords

Passwords are what separate a person’s private information from the rest of the world. People use them for their social media profiles, online banking accounts, and personal computers, among others. They have been integral in helping individuals make the most of the convenience brought about by today’s digital age.

With all the passwords people need, it is only logical for them to use words or phrases that they can relate to the most, so they are sure to remember them best. Moreover, most people tend to use the same password across all of their accounts so they can log in without thinking of their passwords. This makes them vulnerable to hacker attacks that are highly probable with only a bit of research. If this happens, they are likely to experience identity theft through their social networks or have all their money taken from their bank accounts.

Avoid being a victim by keeping your passwords secure. The simplest, yet most effective, way to do this is to make full use of the special characters on your keyboard and alternate between upper and lower cases to complicate the password. Use different passwords for your accounts so as not to compromise your other accounts once hackers have gained access to one profile. More importantly, do not tell anyone your password for your own privacy and protection. 

NCIS Issued Framework to Complement Password Management Software Tools

As it is designed to work alongside existing security programs and protocols, organizations that will choose to adopt it will not have to worry about the cost of a complete system upheaval. They can easily implement it without making major changes to their system and investing in more devices. The framework will also fortify the advantages offered by online password manager tools from trusted developers such as Access Smart, LLC. While such programs already provide companies with several benefits in terms of protecting their networks and data at the point-of-entry, the framework will strengthen their infrastructure. In addition, it will serve as an effective instrument through which they can educate their staff about improved data protection within the organization. As a result, companies are assured of higher immunity against attacks from third-party sources that may compromise their processes, functions, and operations.

http://www.access-smart.com/ncis-issued-framework-complement-password-management-software-tools-2013-11-19/

NIST Reviews Standards for Network Access Control Programs and Others

In the long run, the action can be instrumental to assuring computer users of the privacy of the information they share over the Web, as well as boosting security systems for businesses using encryption protocols. The institute reinforced this in their official announcement by saying, “If any current guidance does not meet the high standards set out in this process, we will address these issues as quickly as possible.” Where vendors of network access protection systems and other security programs are concerned, the possible revamp and resulting recommendations will do much to improve the way they design their products. Respected providers such as Access Smart, LLC will then be able to fortify their features so they can grant optimum security to customers' information at the point-of-entry.

http://www.access-smart.com/nist-reviews-standards-network-access-control-programs-others-2013-11-18/

Password Management Software Featured in SAP Capabilities Study

"Ladera Ranch, California (October 7, 2013) – Access Smart’s Power LogOn® software has been featured in a study that shows how it enhances the information security of SAP® data. A market leader in enterprise resource planning (ERP) solutions, SAP cites the centralized password management software for its leveraging of cyber infrastructure, fast configuration and deployment, and cost savings benefits, among other offered advantages. Power LogOn® leverages the existing cyber infrastructure of organizations that use SAP without affecting it. The software does not modify Active Directory or SAP configurations nor require changes to any existing user accounts. It also allows information technology (IT) professionals to manage passwords more systematically and enable end users to follow strong password policies more easily."

http://www.access-smart.com/password-management-software-featured-sap-capabilities-study-2013-10-07/

Power LogOn® Provides Network Access Control Solutions for NeMCMHA

"Ladera Ranch, California (October 1, 2013) – Power LogOn® by Access Smart is providing network access control solutions for the North East Michigan Community Mental Health Authority (NeMCMHA). The software’s strong security features help the healthcare service provider protect their digital information and adhere to the standards of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and the Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act (HITECH Act). According to Aaron Flick, Network Coordinator for NeMCMHA, Power LogOn® has all the features they look for in cyber access solutions: password security and management, multi-factor authentication into existing application, Active Directory and VMware compatibility, and employee ease-of-use. The software offers the convenience of a cyber access card. It is also affordable because it works in both server and stand-alone based computers and requires no subscription fees. Moreover, it is able to transfer

http://www.access-smart.com/power-logon-provides-network-access-control-solutions-nemcmha-2013-10-01/

Integrated Network Access Control Solutions

With many elements in cyberspace threatening the security and the very survival of businesses and organizations, security measures need to be enforced to safeguard different networks. One of these measures is network access control (NAC), which is a form of computer network security that unifies endpoint security technologies. Also known as network admission control, NAC encompasses user and system authentication and network security enforcement.

The NAC system restricts the type of data each user can access. For instance, the traditional network access server (NAS), a component of NAC, performs authentication and authorization functions by verifying password login information. Companies that offer NAC solutions can build upon the client’s existing security network infrastructure to reduce the need for additional hardware or firmware. The NAC’s enterprise management solution ensures that employees can log on to secure networks without having to remember or even type complicated or rudimentary passwords.

Efficient NAC solutions combine password management software and card management with secure smartcard technology. This improved solution easily integrates into existing networks, and requires no backend server modification. Unlike other security products which force managers to modify their network control policies to adhere to the security product's architecture, improved NAC solutions can be easily configured to comply with the company's network access authentication policies.

Improved NAC solutions can be used to log in to access points, such as network servers VPN, intranet and extranet, and the Windows OS logon active directory. Improved NAC solutions also reinforce security despite the challenges posed by virtual servers. 

Controlling Employee Access with Secure Password Management Software

"A report on the Business 2 Community website dated August 8, 2013 details how a business can control the password usage of their employees. When sensitive information such as access details is involved, it’s better to go the extra mile when it comes to security. The following are recommendations on how to restrict passwords only to those who need them. Passwords can already be quite a chore to maintain, and sharing them to the right people is an even more arduous task. The latter isn’t something to take lightly, as it is a basic yet crucial precaution against security breaches. A company is sure to have a number of passwords registered under its name, and it’ll need a reliable way to keep track of each while disseminating them only to the assigned personnel. Having handy password management software from an access firm like Access Smart, LLC could help simplify the process."

http://www.access-smart.com/controlling-employee-access-secure-password-management-software-2013-09-15/

Why Proper Network Access Control Is Very Important for Businesses

"Last January 28, 2013, a ComputerWeekly article discussed why network access control (NAC) hasn’t caught on with most companies. For all its benefits, some businesses have failed to see the need for NAC. Such shortsightedness can backfire upon those companies who failed to implement some form of administration over their networks. A well-defined network access control system can do a lot of good for a company by securing its network from outside intrusion. However, it’s not something any IT department can implement, let alone maintain. If a company has difficulty laying down an NAC system, it shouldn’t be afraid to ask for help from an access management solutions firm like Access Smart, LLC."

http://www.access-smart.com/proper-network-access-control-important-businesses-2013-09-15/

Need for Network Access Control and Protection Emphasized with Apple Security Breach

"If a major brand in modern technology and communication known for its virus and malware impenetrability can be infiltrated by cyber criminals, there’s no doubt that growing corporations and small businesses are likewise vulnerable. Fortunately, there are many ways for you to secure your organization’s computer network, and you can get started by having an efficient network access control system. With the right attitude and priority given to computer network security, you can be assured that your vital data won’t fall into the wrong hands. According to the news report, Apple claims that the hack only affected a number of developer accounts wherein developers’ names, addresses, and email addresses might have been accessed. Since most of the information on the servers are encrypted, Apple is confident that iTunes accounts and customer credit card details were not compromised. However, this incident clearly tells everybody, especially stakeholders, that one of the very first things to

http://www.access-smart.com/need-network-access-control-protection-emphasized-apple-security-breach-2013-07-22/

Access Smart Offers New FIPS-Validated Password Management Software

"Ladera Ranch, California (Sept. 20, 2013) – Access Smart, LCC is offering their newest password management software called Power LogOn for government agencies, corporations, and business. The product was given a Federal Information Processing Standards (FIPS) 140-2 validation by laboratory InfoGard, a National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)-approved laboratory. The Power LogOn network access control solution works by allowing IT managers to centrally control their passwords. This system paves way for better password management as employees no longer need to type in or remember their passwords. Moreover, other problems like resetting a forgotten password are eliminated."

http://www.access-smart.com/access-smart-offers-new-fips-validated-password-management-software-2013-10-03/

Protective Measures against Data Breach

Any business that deals with clients and customers on a daily basis must step up their game when it comes to data protection. If any organization is found to be guilty of exposing client or customer data, whether intentionally or unintentionally, will most likely be held liable for data breach. When this happens, they will not only be ordered to pay huge fines but are also likely to lose credibility in the industry, which can eventually lead to loss of customers or clients.

A good way to protect data is to apply password security systems. However, there are times when passwords are easily figured out by hackers and cybercriminals, especially when the passwords were weak to begin with. Thus, employees can be encouraged to strengthen their passwords by using a combination of at least eight alphanumeric characters; they can also be encouraged to change their passwords on a weekly or monthly basis.

There are times, however, when employees tend to forget their passwords, and since they are discouraged from writing these passwords down on their notebooks, retrieving them becomes difficult, opening up an opportunity for hackers to step in and log on to the employees' e-mail accounts. An effective way to reduce these risks is to use a password management software to store these passwords so they can be easily retrieved as needed; this software typically features an encryption key that makes it hard for cybercriminals to penetrate.

A Quick Look at Corporate Identity Theft

Many people are by now aware of the growing incidents of identity theft, which have brought financial woes to unsuspecting victims. Identity theft, however, is not just confined to individuals; businesses of any size can also fall victim to corporate identity theft. Just as in personal identity theft cases, corporate identity thieves can assume a company's identity and use it to transact business, such as making purchases using the company's finances and/or credit lines. There are also corporate identity thieves whose intentions are to sabotage a company by maligning its reputation or destroying its data.

Authorities who have investigated cases of corporate identity theft said that most of these thefts were facilitated by the growing use of the Internet in businesses. One can easily find identifying information about a company through the Internet, including logos, patents, trademarks, and web domains. Phishing is a technique where fraudsters send a virus to a company's employee through emails. When the virus is activated, the phishers are allowed a “back entry” into the company's system.

Other more sophisticated hacking techniques have recently been developed by fraudsters, which gives them entry into a company's data systems without resorting to phishing. One of these techniques is keylogging, which allows hackers to track the keys struck by a user, including their email and company network passwords.

Countering Cyber Hacking with Password Management

Cyber criminals (particularly hackers) have become more cunning and cutting edge when it comes to penetrating personal and corporate accounts and systems. Over the years, these online offenders have become bolder, and their attacks have become grander in scale. Some have attempted to hack into the websites and networks of various governments and multinational corporations. Fortunately, there are safeguards that can keep cyber hackers at bay. In fact, securing an account, network, or device can be accomplished with something as simple as password management.

Passwords used on and offline should be as long as possible, and must contain alphanumeric characters. Throwing in symbols, and using both upper and lower case letters in passwords, is also recommended. The longer and more complicated the code is, the more difficult it will be for hackers to crack.

Unfortunately, even the most complicated passwords can be cracked. For this reason, one must be one step ahead of cyber criminals, and change passwords every three to six months. Do not use variations of the old code. As much as possible, create an entirely new one that does not have any connection with the last password that was created.

Finally, invest in a device that has the capacity to encrypt sensitive information such as passwords. This is important for businesses and organizations, since they operate more complex technologies than private users. Password management software usually centralizes password authentication, and effectively eliminate security breaches.

Network Access Control: Securing Confidential Info

Network Access Control (NAC) is a word used by many IT groups, as it is connected to computer network security. NAC limits access to the computers, networks, and systems of a particular group. In this manner, computers, networks, and systems are restricted from unauthorized personnel, devices, and programs (especially malicious software). By enforcing network security, company data and systems are protected, and confidential information is safeguarded.

Without NAC, the integrity of entire companies and organizations, as well as their affiliates, would be jeopardized. Sometimes, employees will use passwords that are not very secure. Insecure passwords are used because it can be difficult to remember passwords that are too long or have unusual combinations of special characters, numbers, and letters in both upper and lower cases. Forgetting a password can be a hassle, as it will bar access to devices, programs, and entire networks. This in turn, can compromise productivity, and impede the workflow of companies and organizations.

Passwords that can be easily identified by unauthorized third party programs and personnel carries a much bigger risk. With Network Access Control, these risks are minimized or obliterated. IT personnel who are in charge of password creation and resets, and managing any restricted information, will embed sophisticated passwords into every employee's swipe card.

Open Sesame: A Brief Take on Passwords

Obviously, computers can't be locked in the physical sense to impede unlawful access. The standard security measure computers use to deter unauthorized access is the password prompt, which serves as an electronic lock of sorts. The origins of the password could be traced as far back as the era of the Roman Empire, when the Empire's watchmen would discreetly pass around a “watchword” that only they would know of.

Passwords are still some of the most reliable applications designed for security; hackers can try to crack the code, but it will take them a considerable amount of time to do so. To further bolster security, it's even possible to create rotating passwords that would make access to the system next to impossible for criminals. For all its strengths against decryption, however, passwords can complicate the lives of those using them.

Those who use long and complex passwords might have difficulty remembering such codes. Thankfully, there are password managers that can help users key in their passwords without challenging their memory. They could either come in the form of software (either as an application or a cloud-based service) that safely store a list of passwords for users, or as a portable physical device (such as a USB drive) that keeps the passwords inside them.

Securing Your Network From Crackers

Not all hackers are bad guys; some are just very curious individuals who simply have to know how secure a site really is. A good example is Adrian Lamo, who succeeded in hacking the sites of major companies such as Yahoo!, Google, and The New York Times. It turned out Lamo was actually a good Samaritan who informed his victims—at no cost—about the weaknesses in their networks' security systems.

However, there are hackers who try to get into companies' and individuals' computing systems with malice in mind. Strictly speaking, these people should be called “crackers,” a term used to distinguish them from the less harmful “hackers”. Crackers get into systems primarily to extract information that may be used against the owners and users of these systems. The most common crime associated with crackers recently is identity theft, which can be committed against both businesses and individuals.

Sometimes, all it takes to hack into a system is to crack the password of a single user in a network. Once a hacker gets into this user's account, they can enter the entire network and access the system's database. This is why securing passwords is very important both in business and personal computing systems. What may seem to be the most secure password can still be cracked by a determined hacker, making innovative password protection systems necessary.