Reused passwords are putting millions at risk, expert warns. Here’s how to stay safe

When it comes to passwords, you can go crazy trying to remember them. Stop someone on the street and ask them if they know what all of their passwords are or where they are. And many are hard-pressed to have a handle on them. We asked a tech expert the best way to keep them straight and safe. Do you ever find it hard to keep track of them all? Paper in a safety deposit box. Yeah, that doesn't give you quick access though, does it? And you have to go into the bank to update it. Yep, you do. But there is a better way to keep track of your passwords. And security analyst Robert Siciliano tells me it's actually been around for a while. I've been using a password manager for over 20 years. It hasn't been hacked. So as long as you download and install the password manager for a small fee, now you have the ability to change up your passcodes anytime you want. Robert tells me a password manager shouldn't cost more than $25 to $40 a year. He adds that one that's in your phone may not work with your laptop or your tablet. So it's good to have a third-party pass manager that works across all of your devices, hardware, and software. What's the number one thing people do that they shouldn't do when it comes to a password? They're using the same passcode across multiple accounts, which makes the bad guy's job so much easier. It's important that everybody, all walks of ages, they engage in basic 101 security practices. That begins with password management. It evolves to two-factor authentication. Siciliano also recommends you make passwords that are long, strong, and unique, and to change them often. But for many, that's still a hard sell. Do you have a password manager? No. It's all up here? Yep. And you're okay with that? Yeah, well, I'm old. I don't have that much stuff. You've got to ask somebody younger. I just, I'll do it later. That's what I do. I do it later. So, that's all I can say. After talking with us, you think you're going to look at a password a little differently? I'm going home to have a drink. Well, even with all this technology available, some people still like putting passwords in a strong box at the bank. Robert tells me a better move is having all of your passcodes on an Excel file or Google Sheet, and then ultimately printing them out. Now, this is especially true for older people, as it allows their loved ones access to all of their accounts when they pass away. Otherwise, the state might get it.