Despite all the chatter around internet security and password integrity, many users still fail to follow best practices, according to password-management app provider DashLane SAS. To highlight these missteps and help you stay ahead of hackers, the app provider has compiled a list of the worst password offenders from 2020. Following password best practices is particularly critical as many companies are unprepared for a data breach. "Just because more of our lives are now online doesn't mean the digital world has become safer — everyone needs to remember proper password hygiene and implement cybersecurity-related best practices," Jay Leaf-Clark, Dashlane's head of IT, said in a release. "Using a password manager like Dashlane to keep your information secure — whether you're an individual or a business — will help alleviate the pain of any future breaches or password disasters." To help internet users stay off future worst password offenders lists, Dashlane suggests the following password best practices:

• Use random, different passwords for every account: Most people tend to reuse the same password for every account, which gives hackers the ability to invade multiple accounts following a single security breach. Be sure to change it up for the utmost protection.
• Two-factor authentication (2FA): Adding a layer of security, 2FA uses a two-step process to verify a user's identity. In addition to passwords, 2FA leans on technology such as fingerprints or retina scans, as well as smartcards and smartphones, to ensure security.
• Use a password manager: The average internet user has more than 200 digital accounts, according to DashLane, which notes that figure is expected to double in the coming five years. Remember, all of those unique passwords can be a challenge. However, software is available to manage those logins and allow for secure autofill of personal and financial details.
• Get breach alerts: In addition to searching the dark web for your information and alerting you if any is found, breach alerts can also inform users of potential security issues that could impact them in the future.

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