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STEP 5

Beyond Simple Passwords

Your passwords are the first line of defense for you devices and accounts. Strong passwords and multi-factor authentication help protect your data. Explore tools to strengthen your passwords below.

Creating a Strong Password

Have I Been Hacked

So, you have been taking the steps necessary to know what you have, who can access it, and ensuring that settings are secure and updates are being done. The next crucial step is making sure you aren’t leaving your systems, applications or devices open for unauthorized access. Lock your virtual doors and windows. Just like in the physical world, when you lock everything down, the bad guys may move on. Your accounts and data (such as email, personnel records or databases) are valuable assets – to you and criminals.

Keep your accounts safer by moving beyond simple passwords: use strong passwords and two-factor authentication (2FA) (an additional layer of protection to your passwords). Be sure to set up unique passwords on all your accounts – use the list of devices and accounts you created in Toolbox “Know What You Have” to help make sure you have everything covered. Use this toolbox to access tools that help you create and manage strong passwords and 2FA.

5.1 Tools for 2FA

Narrow your search by selecting your OS
Type
1
Level
0h 30min
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1Password for Democracy

Use this tool to store and access your passwords securely.

Type
1
Level
0h 30min
Time

Google Authenticator

Use this tool to install Google Authenticator on your phone and tablet to manage your 2FA passwords.

Type
1
Level
0h 30min
Time

Microsoft Authenticator

Use this tool to manage your 2FA passwords.

Type
1
Level
0h 15 min
Time

Set Up 2FA on Your Accounts

Instructions to set up two-factor authentication on your online accounts.

SpecOps logo
Type
2
Level
0h 30min
Time

Specops Password Auditor

Use this tool to scan your Active Directory and identify password-related vulnerabilities.

Type
1
Level
0h 30min
Time

Turn On 2FA for Your Accounts

Use this tool to configure your online accounts with 2FA.

Have I Been Pwned logo
Type
1
Level
0h 10min
Time

Have I Been Pwned?

Use this tool to see if your password has been compromised.

Additional Training & Resources

Explore training courses, videos, sharable content and other resources about this toolbox topic. Browse additional training resources below.

CTCL logo

Cybersecurity 101 for Election Officials

Data breaches, ransomware, denial-of-service attacks, and misleading election information are regular headlines in America,...

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Password Manager logo

Password Manager

PasswordManager.com provides information regarding online and password security, including how to choose the best password...

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Access Control Policy

This sample policy will assist your organization in documenting the controls in place that prevent unauthorized access to...

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Authentication Policy

Use/customize this template to build your company's authentication policy.

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How to Create Strong Passwords

Watch this video to learn how to create strong passwords.

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Why Password Reuse is Dangerous

Watch this video to understand the importance of creating and maintaining strong, unique passwords.

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