5 Reasons Why You Should Keep Passwords on a Simple Piece of Paper
Passwords are the primary security measure that prevents intruders from accessing any accounts. We constantly use them to access email, social media, and various applications. Now, where do we store them? It's common to use password managers, such as LastPass or 1Password, in addition to the browser's built-in password manager. But is this the best option?
Let's explain the importance of writing down passwords on paper. Of course, a piece of paper keeps them hidden and well-protected. As you'll see, there are obvious reasons why this is extremely beneficial, and it can even help you avoid problems that affect the security of your accounts.
Why keep passwords on paper?
By paper, we mean any physical material that you can carry anywhere or store wherever you see fit. It could be a notebook, a sheet of paper, etc. Go back to the traditional method: a pen and paper to jot down important things, like passwords for online accounts.
You don't have to trust any program.
The first reason is the lack of trust in any program. Even if you use a secure and reputable program, you cannot guarantee its 100% reliability or that it is free from any leaks or problems that could affect the security of your accounts.
Paper is simply something tangible you own, which you can hide wherever you want. You'll be able to access these keys whenever you want, without relying on a third party.
Easy access, whatever the circumstances.
We must also consider accessibility, even in complex situations. For example, in the event of a major power outage affecting the internet, you will not be able to access the password saved on an online platform to log into a device, such as a battery-powered home safe.
Of course, paper also poses a risk if lost, in a fire, or in the event of a disaster. Therefore, you should carefully consider where you store it or even distribute several copies to more than one physical location.
Avoiding device errors
Of course, another reason for using paper copies of passwords is to avoid hardware problems. Even if your passwords are stored on a device that is not connected to the internet and is therefore highly secure, you are still at risk of the hard drive failing and becoming inaccessible.
A piece of paper can last for decades, even hundreds of years, as long as it is stored safely. A flash drive, a computer hard drive, or anything similar, on the other hand, lasts no more than a few years at best.
- Comprehensive security control
Another aspect to consider is security. If you write your passwords down on paper, you have complete control over where they are stored, what you write, and so on. Using password managers makes you more vulnerable to security risks. For example, a hacker could potentially access your account.
Therefore, if you want to enhance security, it is best to use a piece of paper to write down your passwords and avoid making it easy for attackers.
Your family can easily access it.
Another advantage is the ease with which your family can access your accounts, safes, or similar items. You don't have to imagine worst-case scenarios like death or serious illness. If you're traveling abroad and want your family to see your password for any reason, simply tell them where that piece of paper is. You won't need to use computer applications with all the associated risks, especially when third parties are involved.
In short, using a simple piece of paper to write down and save your passwords is a good option. Of course, we reiterate that it's important to choose a secure place where no one can access them.