Reasons You Should Never Share Passwords
Sharing passwords may seem like a rapid and non-offensive way to get things done, specifically when teams require access to shared tools, apps, or remote systems such as VPNs. But while accessible, password sharing opens the door to serious cybersecurity risks.Once you share a password, you lose control over where it goes, who uses it, and how. What seems like an easy shortcut can unravel your business to data breaches, malware, and unauthorized access.Here’s why password sharing is a dangerous habit, and what you can do alternatively.
Dangers of Sharing Passwords
1. You Lose Control Over Usage
The second you give your password to someone else, even a trusted coworker, you can’t control what happens next. Maybe they save it in their browser, reuse it elsewhere, or share it with someone else.
For example, you may ask a teammate to check something while you’re out. They log in using your password, fine. But what if they keep that login saved and use it again? What if someone else sees it? You won’t know when or how your credentials are being used.
2. You Can’t Control Who Else Sees It
Once shared, a password can easily be distributed. It could be copied into documents, emailed, texted, or even written down. In many workplaces, passwords are kept in shared files named “passwords,” a goldmine for cybercriminals.Even apparently harmless habits can backfire. There have been real-world cases of employees posting selfies at their desks with passwords visible on sticky notes in the background.
3. You Expose Passwords to Unsecure Devices
Even if the person you share with is cautious, their device may not be. They could be using:
- A computer infected with malware
- A shared or public device
- Weak security settings
- Poor judgment in phishing situations
A single vulnerable device can expose your password to hackers, who may steal data or access sensitive systems.
Why People Share Passwords (But Shouldn’t)
1. It’s Convenient
Texting or emailing a password gets the job done quickly, but that ease and comfort come with long-term risk. It’s an open invitation for attackers.
2. Shared Accounts
Some teams use shared logins for apps or tools. That may seem effective, but it removes accountability. If something goes wrong, there’s no way to trace who did what.
3. Social Engineering
Cybercriminals are skilled at tricking people into giving away passwords via phishing (emails), smishing (texts), or vishing (calls). Therefore, sharing credentials, even with people you know, can make you or your team more open and at risk to these scams.
A Better Solution: Use a Password Manager
If you must give someone access to an account, never do it by sending or writing down the password. Instead, use a password manager.
These tools:
- Keeps passwords securely in an encrypted vault
- Let you share access without exposing the actual password
- Track who has access and when
- Let you reverse access at any time
Every user has their own login, and only authorized users can access shared credentials. It not only enhances security but also improves responsibility.
If you are looking for a popular and reliable password manager, then Credentius is the right one for you and those looking for a safe way to keep their passwords as well as their personal information safe.For businesses specifically, enterprise-grade solutions offer even more features such as user provisioning, policy enforcement, and audit trails.
Wrapping Up
Sharing passwords is never as inoffensive as it seems. Once shared, you lose transparency, control, and security. Mistakes like saving a password in a browser or falling for a phishing scam can put your systems at risk and result in major breaches.
It is recommended that, whenever possible, you avoid sharing passwords completely. But if access must be shared, use a strong password manager to do it the right way.
Smart password habits, such as using strong passwords, avoiding reuse, and managing credentials safely, can secure your digital environment and reduce your vulnerability to cyber threats.
How Credentius Can Help?
Credentius is a powerful password manager built to secure your digital life while eradicating the need to share passwords directly. It encrypts and stores all your credentials in a centralized vault accessible across devices, so you never have to text, email, or write down passwords. With Credentius, you can create strong, unique passwords and share access securely, without exposing the actual credentials. For businesses, features such as policy enforcement, user management, and audit trails help reduce the risks of shared accounts and enhance security and accountability throughout teams.
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