In light of recent security issues, here’s a software program you need to use.
A security breach was discovered last week at domain name parking company NameDrive. After discovering that many domainers were using similar usernames and passwords across multiple domain parking companies, both Sedo and Fabulous sent warning messages to customers.
The scary part is that the hackers likely didn’t care about getting into your domain parking account. It appears they were trying to get into hosted email accounts such as Hotmail and Gmail. Since people tend to use the same password across sites, all the hackers had to do was try the same passwords that were attached to the e-mail addresses. If they got into an e-mail account, they could use it to commit fraud, send spam, or hijack your domain names.
Let’s face it, remembering all these passwords is a pain. That’s why we re-use them or use generic and weak passwords. That’s why I recommend using RoboForm, a password generator and site login program.
RoboForm remembers your passwords (with your permission) and then automatically logs you into web sites when you revisit them. It also fills out forms for you (such as name, address, etc.). The first time you use RoboForm during any computer session it prompts you for a master password; after that logging into a site is as simple as clicking a button. It works with all major browsers and operating systems.
RoboForm also makes it easy to use proper security protocols. For example, it will auto-generate secure passwords for you as an alternative to choosing your own.
You can download a copy of the free version here (executable file), or read more about the software on RoboForm’s web site. The free version limits the number of passwords you can save. The Pro version is $29.95, but well worth it. Of course, try out the free version first and make sure you like it.
Skip says
Lastpass.com is another password manager with the added benefit of being cross-platform and free (consumer version). The .deb package is 32-bit only but the Firefox .xpi works fine for me on x64 Ubuntu.
Unfortunately most of the popular managers like Roboform and Lastpass are closed source so security is only as good as the keys stored on their servers. But coupled with a secure linux or BSD-based desktop OS, it shouldn’t be too much of a worry these days.
One other thing that came to mind wrt security. It used to be that https was turned off by default in Gmail. It’s worth looking through the options to make sure that switch is on.
DomainBuilders.com says
I have used RoboForm for over a year and LOVE IT! It is a must have and enables me to surf 10x faster!
Again, a must have.
Joel
D says
For me Firefox manages all passwords.
Adrian says
D, Firefox is not a good option. Recently a friend of mine lost his passwords that way due to a Firefox crash.
I’m also a user for RoboForm for more than two years and it’s a great program. It definitely worth the $30 price tag.