In news from just last week, the popular password vault LastPass was breached when an employee was the target of a keylogging attack. The corporate vault was then accessed, leaving over 60,000 customers vulnerable to identity theft and data manipulation. It’s clear that even the most trusted password vaults can’t protect us from determined criminals.
Password vaults are back in the spotlight. With the rise of shared password vaults, businesses are now putting their trust in digital platforms to keep their data safe. While these are touted as efficient solutions, here’s why they should be treated with caution:
1. Inherent Weaknesses
Shared password vaults are built on the premise of sharing, which inherently creates a vulnerability. Every user represents a potential entry point, and no matter how strong the passwords are, user error and malicious intent can create weaknesses.
2. Malware Vulnerabilities
Shared password vaults are also susceptible to malware and trojan horses. Attackers can use malicious code to gain access to the vault and extract its data. This could mean anything from financial information to private documents.
3. Limited Support
The customer support offered by shared password vaults is often limited, leaving you vulnerable even after you’ve made a purchase. Even with prompt support, the service provider may not be able to remedy a security breach or perform a full investigation, leaving you in the dark.
4. Security Protocols
Shared password vaults are often built on outdated security protocols, meaning their encryption may be susceptible to attacks. Even though these platforms claim to use the latest security methods, there can be weaknesses that can only be revealed with advanced testing.
5. Phishing Threats
Finally, shared password vaults are vulnerable to phishing attempts. Attackers can send out malicious emails containing links to fake websites. When users enter their credentials into these sites, the attackers gain access to the shared password vault and its contents.
Time to Take Action
LastPass and other password vaults are a convenient way to store your data, but consider the potential risks before investing in one. With the rise of cybercriminals, there’s no such thing as ‘too safe’. Make sure you’re looking at all the options before committing to a shared password vault.
Share this article with your colleagues on social media and start a conversation about the cyber security risks to look out for today.