Why Password Security Still Matters: A Cybersecurity Essential

Despite ongoing reminders about data security, it’s all too easy for individuals and businesses to become complacent. With cybersecurity warnings becoming background noise for many, one of the most common — and most overlooked — threats continues to be poor password security.

Why Passwords Still Matter

Yes, they’re frustrating. But passwords remain a foundational layer of cybersecurity. While modern features like facial recognition and fingerprint access help streamline secure logins, these tools aren’t universally available across all sites and devices. That means having strong, unique passwords is still essential for protecting your business systems and sensitive data.

Best Practices for Password Protection

Practicing good password hygiene helps prevent unauthorized access and reduces the risk of data breaches. Here’s what every employee — and every organization — should be doing:

Use complex passwords with at least 12 characters, including mixed case, numbers, and symbols.
Avoid reusing passwords across different platforms or accounts.
Never share your password with coworkers or send it via email or text.
Use a secure, encrypted password manager to store credentials — not unprotected files.
Change passwords regularly, especially after role changes or employee departures.
Immediately revoke access to systems when someone no longer needs it.

Multi-Factor Authentication: A Critical Layer

Even strong passwords can be compromised, which is why multi-factor authentication (MFA) has become a standard in cybersecurity best practices. MFA adds an extra layer of verification, requiring users to confirm their identity using something they know (a password) and something they have (like a one-time code or biometric factor).

Common forms of MFA include:

One-time codes sent via text or email
Authentication apps like Microsoft Authenticator or Google Authenticator
Hardware security tokens
Biometric authentication such as fingerprint or facial recognition

Note: Some MFA methods, such as text message codes, may be inaccessible when traveling internationally without a mobile data package. Consider using app-based MFA for greater reliability and flexibility.

The Bottom Line: Don’t Ignore the Basics

Password safety remains one of the most important — and most easily forgotten — elements of business cybersecurity. When password updates feel tedious or inconvenient, it’s tempting to delay them. But this small act of neglect can open the door to serious data vulnerabilities.

At Tobin Solutions, we help organizations across Wisconsin implement password policies, adopt secure login practices, and deploy MFA tools that reduce cyber risk. Don’t wait until it’s too late — make password protection a priority in your cybersecurity plan.

Ready to improve your company’s cybersecurity?
Contact Tobin Solutions today, email us at info@tobinsolutions.com, or call (414) 443-9999.