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What is data privacy compliance, and how does it impact cybersecurity?

Data privacy compliance is about following rules that ensure sensitive information stays safe and sound, accessible only to the right people. Let’s jump into this world of digital guardianship and see why every organization needs to master the art of privacy compliance to keep its data safe.

What is data privacy compliance? 

No matter where your organization operates, there are probably rules and standards out there that dictate how to securely manage data. That’s what data privacy compliance is all about. It refers to adherence to laws and regulations designed to protect personal information, and involves ensuring that data collection, processing, and storage practices meet legal standards and respect the privacy rights of individuals.

Effective data privacy compliance requires robust data privacy management practices. This includes sticking to data compliance regulations, such as GDPR or CCPA, which set standards for data protection and privacy. Additionally, it involves implementing security measures, obtaining proper consent, and regularly reviewing data handling processes to mitigate risks and ensure ongoing compliance. By following these guidelines, organizations can safeguard user data, avoid legal penalties, and build trust with their customers.

Why is data privacy compliance crucial for organizations?

Implementing data privacy compliance isn’t just a box-ticking exercise; it’s a smart strategy with many benefits for your business. Embracing data privacy management can transform the way an organization operates and interacts with its stakeholders. Here’s how getting serious about data protection can improve your organization’s performance and reputation:

  • Enhanced security: By keeping your sensitive info locked up tight and adding a web application firewall (WAF) network security to guard against cyber-attacks, you’re making it way harder for hackers to gain access. It’s like having an extra layer of protection for your digital assets.

  • Legal compliance: Staying on top of regulations like GDPR and CCPA keeps you out of hot water. Compliance is not merely about avoiding legal repercussions; it signifies that your organization prioritizes the safeguarding of personal data and respects the privacy of individuals.

  • Customer trust: When you show that you’re serious about protecting their personal data, customers feel safer doing business with you. Building trust can turn one-time buyers into loyal fans.

  • Risk mitigation: By spotting and fixing potential weak spots in how you handle data, you reduce the chances of a data breach. This means fewer headaches and less damage control when things go south. Not to mention long-term financial savings – by preventing data breaches and ensuring compliance, organizations can avoid costly fines, legal fees, and remediation costs associated with data incidents.

  • Operational efficiency: Implementing good data privacy practices and using tools like WAF can streamline how you manage data. This can lead to smoother operations and less time spent on data-related issues.

  • Brand reputation: A solid track record in data protection boosts your public image. Being known as a company that handles data responsibly can be a key factor in attracting and retaining customers.

  • Global reach: Complying with data protection standards from around the world opens up more opportunities for international business. It means you can confidently operate across borders without worrying about running afoul of different regulations.

Regulations and standards

As briefly mentioned above, when talking about data privacy compliance, it’s essential to mention key regulations like GDPR, HIPAA, PCI DSS, and CCPA. These rules help ensure personal data is kept safe and sound.

  • GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation): This European Union set of rules is all about giving people control over their data. It means businesses need to get clear consent to use customers’ data, let people see what information is held about them, and even delete it if asked.

  • HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act): In the US, HIPAA makes sure that everyone’s health information stays private. Hospitals and doctors have to follow strict rules to keep medical data safe and sound.

  • PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard): PCI DSS sets the standards to keep card details secure, preventing any sneaky cyber thieves from getting your payment info.

  • CCPA (California Consumer Privacy Act): California’s answer to GDPR, CCPA, gives Californians more say over how their personal data is handled. It lets them know what’s being collected, say no to data selling, and even ask for their data to be deleted.

These regulations are the backbone of data privacy compliance. They ensure businesses handle personal info responsibly, keeping it secure and respecting people’s privacy. Following these rules not only keeps companies out of trouble but also builds trust with customers by showing they care about protecting personal data.

 

Benefits of a data privacy compliance program

A data privacy compliance program is essential for any company handling sensitive data. It’s a structured approach to ensure that your business sticks to various data privacy laws and compliance requirements. Many companies that have never considered such a program might wonder why it’s necessary. Here are a few more compelling reasons:

  • Streamlined audits: Regular audits are a part of doing business, and a robust privacy compliance program can make these audits less disruptive and more straightforward. Clear documentation and established procedures mean that you can provide necessary information quickly and efficiently.

  • Improved data quality: A focus on data privacy often leads to better data management practices overall. This can improve the quality of your data, making it more accurate, reliable, and valuable for decision-making.

  • Employee empowerment: When employees understand data privacy protocols and their importance, they feel more empowered and responsible. This can lead to a more proactive workforce that actively contributes to maintaining data integrity.

  • Vendor relationships: Many businesses rely on third-party vendors. A privacy compliance program ensures that your company can confidently work with these vendors, knowing that data privacy standards are maintained across the supply chain.

  • Regulatory foresight: A well-implemented privacy compliance program keeps you ahead of the curve with upcoming regulations. Staying informed and prepared for future changes in data privacy laws can give your organization a strategic advantage.

  • Stakeholder confidence: Beyond customers, other stakeholders like investors, partners, and regulators gain confidence in an organization’s stability and foresight when they see a commitment to data privacy. This can lead to stronger business relationships and opportunities.

Compliance vs. security: What is the difference between data privacy compliance and general data compliance?

Data privacy compliance is all about protecting personal information. Imagine it as the bodyguard for people’s private details, ensuring that their data is collected, processed, and stored in a way that respects their privacy. The data privacy definition involves sticking to laws and regulations like GDPR and CCPA, which set strict guidelines on how personal data should be handled.

Data compliance is the broader term encompassing all regulations and standards that a company must follow regarding data. Picture it as the rulebook for data management, ensuring that your organization sticks to industry-specific standards and legal requirements. This can include financial data, health records, and more.

In essence, while these concepts overlap, they both focus on different aspects of data management. Data privacy compliance is about respecting individual privacy, and data compliance is about adhering to legal and industry standards. Together, they create a comprehensive approach to managing and safeguarding data in your organization.

Bottom line

Ensuring data privacy and compliance is a critical concern for organizations today, especially with regulations like GDPR and CCPA imposing strict requirements. Businesses need to implement tools to monitor and strengthen password health, as well as seamless integration across systems – all essential components of a comprehensive data privacy compliance program.

Enter NordPass, an advanced yet easy-to-use password manager that offers all the essential features mentioned above. Imagine having a high-speed, digital guardian that not only locks away your passwords with top-notch encryption but also ensures only the right people have access to the right information. NordPass’ zero-knowledge architecture means that no one—not even the creators of NordPass—can take a peek at your data. Plus, with handy features like Password Health monitoring, it’s like having a personal trainer for your team’s cybersecurity fitness. Seamless integration across platforms and scalable, centralized management make NordPass a versatile ally, ready to grow with your business. With NordPass’ robust data privacy compliance features, you can ensure your business meets the highest standards of security and regulatory requirements.

About Version 2 Limited
Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

About NordPass
NordPass is developed by Nord Security, a company leading the global market of cybersecurity products.

The web has become a chaotic space where safety and trust have been compromised by cybercrime and data protection issues. Therefore, our team has a global mission to shape a more trusted and peaceful online future for people everywhere.

What is a passkey and how does it work?

As the digital world continues to expand and evolve, the need for secure authentication is more critical than ever. Enter passkeys – a modern solution for secure authentication that provides a safer and more convenient way to access apps and websites without ever having to remember or type out a password. Today, we’re looking into the world of passkeys, explaining what they are, how they work, and why they’re considered the future of authentication.

What are passkeys?

Essentially, passkeys are a new, phishing-resistant, and convenient way to sign up for and access apps and websites. At its core, a passkey is a digital login credential that uses your device—be it a phone, laptop, tablet, or desktop—to authenticate you instead of a traditional username and password combination. Cybersecurity experts tout passkeys as the authentication technology set to replace passwords.

Tech giants such as Apple, Microsoft, and Google are working on passkeys and aiming to make their platforms and accounts password-free. The decision is also expected to be taken up by other members of the FIDO Alliance, which is the driver behind passkey technology, and other companies around the globe.

When passkeys become the dominant authentication method, you will be able to sign up and access online services the same way you unlock your phone — via biometrics. No longer will you need to create, remember, and type out passwords.

Sounds awesome? Well, because passkeys are seriously awesome. Let’s have a peek at how to use passkeys in the real world.

Sign-up experience

Say you need to sign-up for a new online service that supports passkeys. All you need to do is add your email or username and confirm the prompt to create a passkey. Here’s how the sign-up process works with passkeys:

Login experience

Now that you’re signed-up for an online service with a passkey, logging in is quick, easy and secure. All you need to do is tap the suggested passkey for that account and you are logged in.

How do passkeys work?

Understanding passkeys and how this technology works can be somewhat tricky, mostly because passwords have been an integral part of our digital lives for so long. So first let’s recap the old and familiar before getting into passkeys. By the end we should understand the whole passkeys vs. passwords deal and why passkeys are the way of the future.

Password technology explained

Passwords — we know them all too well, and most of us have some idea of how they work. But let’s quickly recap.

Password-based authentication is relatively simple and straightforward. Say you create a password for a new online account. That password is then stored in an encrypted format on a server. When you use the password to access that account, the system compares the password you enter with the one in its database. If the two match — you’re good to go.

Simple, right? Well the catch is that this kind of user authentication presents quite a few serious security concerns. People tend to reuse simple and easy-to-crack passwords for multiple accounts, which is a hacker’s dream — crack a single account and you have access to a person’s entire digital life. Databases that store passwords can be breached. In fact, Verizon’s Data Breach Report notes that up to 80% of successful breaches are attributed to weak or stolen passwords.

Passkey technology explained

You can think of passkeys as a new and improved type of password. Both are used to verify a user’s identity upon sign up and login. However, the technology behind passkeys operates in a different way.

Whenever you sign up for an online service which supports passkey authentication, two keys are generated — public and private, both of which are used to authenticate the user when logging in.

Passkeys are widely considered to be a more secure and convenient form of authentication compared to passwords, as they reduce the risk of forgetting or reusing passwords. Passkeys are also resistant to phishing attacks as they can’t be stolen from your device by a third-party.

What sites and apps support passkeys?

Unsurprisingly, passkeys are gaining a lot of traction. Major websites, services, and apps that already support passkey-based authentication include Apple, Amazon, Adobe, Coinbase, eBay, GitHub, Google, LinkedIn, Microsoft, Nintendo, PayPal, Shopify, Sony, TikTok, WhatsApp, X, Yahoo, and quite a few others.

In the next couple of years, we can expect to see most companies pivot to passkey-based authentication, not only to make things easier for their users but also to improve the overall security for all involved parties.

Will passkeys replace passwords?

Well, all signs point to that! Due to the convenience and security provided by passkeys, the era of passwords may soon be over. However, before it happens, major platforms, services, and apps must introduce passkeys as the authentication method.

In NordPass, the passwordless future has already begun. We’re ready and determined to make your transition from passwords to passkeys as smooth and easy as possible.

Store passkeys with NordPass

All NordPass users now have the ability to store and manage passkeys in NordPass and use them to access apps and websites. NordPass syncs your passkeys across all of your devices as well as operating systems and enables you to safely share passkeys whenever needed. It is important to note that sharing passkeys is not as easy with alternative systems as it is with NordPass.

We’re excited to let you know that with the release of iOS 17 and Android 14, passkey storage is now available on NordPass apps for both iOS and Android devices. This is a monumental step for us, ensuring that you, our users, enjoy a seamless experience across all platforms and devices.

In addition to mobile access, you can also reach your passkeys on NordPass via the desktop app, web vault, Firefox, and Chrome-based browser extensions. We’re also thrilled to share that support for the Safari extension is on the priority list and will be launched later this year.

Besides allowing you to store passkeys, NordPass also helps businesses enable this new and more secure passwordless authentication on their websites and apps via Authtopia by NordPass – a solution designed to allow developers of any skill level to easily implement a pre-existing code and enable the passkeys widget in their service.

 

Password managers are highly reliant on platform vendors when it comes to passkey technology. Therefore, the move from Apple and Google serves as a huge milestone in replacing passwords with more advanced online authentication solutions. With tech giants allowing third-party integrations, internet users will get more user-friendly services and, as a result, will be more keen to stick to using passkeys.

Sorin Manole

Product Strategist @ NordPass

About Version 2 Limited
Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

About NordPass
NordPass is developed by Nord Security, a company leading the global market of cybersecurity products.

The web has become a chaotic space where safety and trust have been compromised by cybercrime and data protection issues. Therefore, our team has a global mission to shape a more trusted and peaceful online future for people everywhere.

Why passwordless authentication is the way forward

Moving beyond passwords

Passwords have been the go-to method for securing access to online accounts and data from the early days of the Internet. However, as cyberattacks grow increasingly sophisticated, relying solely on passwords may no longer suffice.

Hacker-controlled machines are now too good at cracking them, particularly because many people use weak or reused passwords across multiple accounts, unaware that this practice makes the attackers’ job effortless.

And so, the time has come to move beyond passwords and adopt more modern standards to safeguard digital assets. In other words, it’s time to go passwordless.

What is passwordless authentication?

Passwordless authentication is a cybersecurity method where users can access a service or application without entering a password. How does passwordless authentication work then? It allows users to utilize alternative authentication factors such as fingerprints or face IDs to verify their identity while logging into a service.

The goal of passwordless authentication is to provide a more convenient alternative to traditional passwords that can not only maintain but also enhance the level of protection against cyberattacks.

Types of passwordless authentication

Passwordless authentication can take many forms; however, some are now more popular than others. Let’s now go through a few of the commonly used authentication techniques that do not require passwords.

Biometric authentication

Probably the most popular passwordless authentication method available today, biometrics involves using built-in scanning tools on devices to verify unique biological characteristics such as fingerprints or facial features to confirm a user’s identity. This method has become highly popular because most modern mobile phones support it. Also, fingerprints can’t be as easily stolen as James Bond movies might suggest, which makes biometric authentication a more secure option than passwords.

Authentication apps

This popular password-free authentication technique uses a dedicated app to generate time-limited codes for accessing accounts, ensuring high security. It works well because most people have their mobile phones with them, making it easier to check the app for a code than to remember all their passwords for different online accounts.

Hardware Tokens

Generally speaking, hardware tokens are physical devices that generate authentication codes or utilize cryptographic keys to grant access to systems. They are quite popular due to their reliability in providing a second factor of authentication, which significantly enhances security. Also, hardware tokens do not rely on internet connectivity or software, making them more resilient against many forms of cyber threats.

With this method, users receive a link via email that, when clicked, allows them to log in to their account without entering a password. This approach simplifies the login process while ensuring security, as the link is usually valid for a limited time and can only be used once.

Passkeys

Compared to other types of passwordless authentication described in this section, passkeys are the new kid on the block, though already quite popular. Passkeys typically involve using a pair of cryptographic keys: a private key stored on the user’s device and a corresponding public key on the website’s server. Access is granted when these keys are successfully matched in a process often initiated through biometrics. This approach enhances convenience and significantly boosts security because attackers must acquire both keys to gain unauthorized access. Stealing the private key from the user’s device is extremely difficult.

The benefits of passwordless authentication

As we’ve already covered in this article, the benefits of passwordless authentication are plenty. These advantages become even clearer when compared to what passwords can provide. So, let’s delve into each major benefit in detail, starting with…

1. Enhanced security

The first, and arguably the most important, benefit of passwordless authentication is that it provides much more protection than traditional passwords. This is because it eliminates vulnerabilities commonly associated with password-based systems, such as phishing, brute-force attacks, and password reuse. With passwordless methods like biometrics or passkeys, authentication relies on unique and difficult-to-replicate factors, significantly reducing the risk of unauthorized access. As a result, adopting passwordless authentication strengthens overall security posture and helps keep outsiders at bay.

2. Ease of use

When it comes to user convenience, passwordless authentication delivers a knockout blow to passwords, preventing them from getting back up. Firstly, the passwordless approach is much faster as it allows users to log in to a service or application with one click, whereas with passwords… well, you know the drill. Secondly, with passwordless authentication, users don’t have to remember anything, freeing their minds and preventing the frustration of repeatedly entering incorrect passwords. And thirdly, this ease of use extends to business as well, preventing account lockouts and shopping cart abandonments, and keeping customers happier and more willing to use a given service.

3. Reduced password-related support

Unlike traditional authentication methods that frequently lead to forgotten passwords and subsequent support requests, passwordless authentication effectively eliminates these issues. This significantly reduces the need for password-related support, saving time and resources while enhancing user satisfaction with a seamless login experience.

4. Enhanced regulatory compliance

Embracing passwordless authentication is a strategic way for businesses to boost their compliance with regulations on data privacy. How so? By adopting secure methods like biometrics or passkeys, organizations can meet diverse data protection requirements without compromising user convenience. This proactive approach not only helps mitigate financial and reputational risks associated with non-compliance but also builds trust among customers and stakeholders.

 

Passwordless authentication use cases

With the support of organizations such as the FIDO Alliance, which helps develop authentication standards to reduce the world’s reliance on passwords, passwordless authentication methods have become highly popular among key players across all industries.

This should come as no surprise, especially considering that, according to a study by Secret Double Octopus and the Ponemon Institute called “State of Workforce Passwordless Authentication,” organizations can save up to $1.9 million by implementing passwordless authentication methods.

This explains why Microsoft has been promoting passwordless authentication through Windows Hello; why Amazon, Apple, and Google have introduced support for passkeys in their services; why Twitter offers password-free login options through third-party authentication apps and security keys; and so on — almost everywhere you look, a password-free login option is available. As a result, passwordless authentication is used today by millions of users worldwide and is gradually pushing passwords out of the picture.

How to enable passwordless authentication on your service

If your website or application requires customers to log in but doesn’t offer passwordless options, consider adding this feature to your to-do list. The answer to whether your company and your customers will benefit from that is undoubtedly yes. The real question is: how can you integrate a password-free login option effectively?

Well, although you can hire a team of IT professionals and ask them to write passwordless logins into your code, this approach requires significant upfront investment and is rather time-consuming.

Fortunately, there are alternatives. For example, you can use Authopia by NordPass, a free tool that allows you to easily add a passkeys widget to the login form on your website or service. Here’s how it works: you receive pre-written code that even those with basic IT skills can implement, you activate the widget by registering with Authopia, and voilà — you have a password-free login option up and running!

As already mentioned, Authopia is free to use, which means you can quickly integrate passkey logins into your service and observe improvements in sign-ups and conversions today. So, don’t miss out on this opportunity!

About Version 2 Limited
Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

About NordPass
NordPass is developed by Nord Security, a company leading the global market of cybersecurity products.

The web has become a chaotic space where safety and trust have been compromised by cybercrime and data protection issues. Therefore, our team has a global mission to shape a more trusted and peaceful online future for people everywhere.

Trello data breach: Immediate steps for users

Using Trello? Your data may have been exposed

In case you haven’t heard, Trello, the popular project management tool from Atlassian, just experienced a major breach. Hackread reports that a staggering 21.1 GB of Trello data has been leaked online, putting millions of users’ sensitive information at risk.

If you’ve used Trello recently or in the past, your data might have been affected too. We’re here to fill you in on what happened, provide tips on how to minimize the impact of the breach, and offer advice on how to protect your data effectively, whether you’re an individual user or a business.

Trello breach: what happened, exactly?

According to Hackread, a hacker known as “Emo” has leaked over 20 GB of Trello data on a cybercrime platform called Breach Forums. The hacker claims to have stolen the data back in January 2024 but did not publish it until Tuesday, July 16. The leaked data includes details on millions of Trello users, such as their usernames, legal names, email addresses, associated memberships, and status information.

“Emo” detailed how they broke into Trello by exploiting a vulnerable open API endpoint that didn’t require a login. This vulnerability allowed the hacker to link email addresses to Trello accounts, exposing the identities of Trello users. The hacker then continued to exploit this vulnerability and, as they said, spread the breach out of boredom. This resulted in data being stolen from millions of Trello users, putting everyone affected at serious risk.

How Trello users should respond

While the news of a major data breach can be alarming, it’s crucial to know that there are steps you can take right away to protect yourself and minimize the damage.

First, check if your data was compromised in the Trello breach. You can use our free online Data Breach Scanner to quickly assess your exposure. If the scan indicates that your data is safe, that’s great! However, if it shows that your information has been leaked, you’ll need to take further action.

If your data has been exposed, immediately change your Trello password to prevent unauthorized access. Also, update the passwords for any other accounts where you use the same password to keep your information secure – better safe than sorry.

Next, keep a close eye on your account activity for any unusual actions that could suggest someone else has gained control. Be vigilant for phishing emails, as cybercriminals may use your email address from the breach to send fake messages pretending to be from Trello. These could be attempts to take over your account, install malware, or trick you into providing more personal information. Stay cautious!

What should businesses do in this situation?

The Trello breach is just the tip of the iceberg. This month alone, we’ve heard of reports of two other major companies, AT&T and Disney, falling victim to cyberattacks with their data ending up on crime forums. It’s a stark reminder that no business is too big or too small to be targeted.

To prevent data leaks and unauthorized access, businesses can take a few key steps to stay ahead of threats. These include:

  • Use a data breach monitoring tool: Regularly scan your systems for vulnerabilities and potential breaches – a good breach monitoring tool will help you identify weak points in your security before hackers can exploit them.

  • Monitor account activity: Keep an eye on who’s accessing your resources and watch for any unusual or unauthorized activity that might indicate a security issue.

  • Enforce a strong password policy: Implement guidelines on password complexity to make sure all employees use strong, unique passwords for their business accounts.

  • Educate your team: Hold training sessions to make sure all employees know how to recognize phishing attempts, create strong passwords, and handle sensitive data securely.

  • Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA): Ask for an extra layer of verification beyond just passwords to make it more difficult for anyone trying to gain unauthorized access.

How NordPass can help protect you or your organization

Whether you’re just a regular user of services like Trello, or a company looking to safeguard your digital assets, NordPass is a solution that can significantly boost your cybersecurity without a hassle.

For individuals, the NordPass Premium plan offers more than encrypted storage for your passwords, passkeys, and other sensitive info. It also includes features designed to protect your digital identity. For example, you get the Data Breach Scanner that constantly searches the dark web for any mentions of your information and alerts you if it finds a match. There’s also the Password Generator that creates strong, unique passwords for you on the spot, and Email Masking, which lets you use a fake email address to sign up for newsletters and services without exposing your real one.

If you’re an organization, the NordPass Business plan has you covered with everything you need to up your security game. It lets you monitor account activity in real time, set and enforce a password policy across your organization, and use a company-wide Data Breach Scanner to check for any mentions of your company data in breaches. It also allows your team to securely share credentials over encrypted channels.

NordPass is a comprehensive solution that helps you tackle many cybersecurity challenges with just one tool. Give it a try and see the difference for yourself.

Use the promo code to get one month free

We want to help you stay protected, especially after incidents like the Trello security breach. That’s why we’re giving you the promo code “haveibeenbreached,” which you can use to get an extra free month of our Premium plan. We hope this helps you feel more secure, knowing that threats can happen anytime. It’s always better to be prepared.

About Version 2 Limited
Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

About NordPass
NordPass is developed by Nord Security, a company leading the global market of cybersecurity products.

The web has become a chaotic space where safety and trust have been compromised by cybercrime and data protection issues. Therefore, our team has a global mission to shape a more trusted and peaceful online future for people everywhere.

What is a web application firewall (WAF)?

Ever wonder how a website protects itself from all of those cyber threats that evolve daily? Through something called the web application firewall, or WAF. But what are WAFs? And why are they important? Understanding how WAFs function and why they form an integral part of today’s modern web security infrastructure provides insight into this very critical role.  

What does the web application firewall (WAF) do?

WAF is a security solution designed to protect web applications by continuously monitoring and filtering HTTP traffic between the web application and the internet. It protects against multiple threats such as SQL injection and cross-site (XXS) scripting, among others. At its core, a WAF works as a kind of protective layer that is put in between web applications and potentially malicious traffic.

How does a WAF Work?

To understand the significance of the role WAF plays in cybersecurity, we have to know how it works. In a nutshell, WAF network security, as already mentioned, works by examining the HTTP requests and responses against defined rules and policies. Here is a deep dive into the mechanisms behind WAF.

WAF

Inspection and filtering

The WAF is put between a user and a web application. So when a user sends a request to the web application, the WAF intercepts the requests passed to the web server and then inspects its contents, including headers, URLs, data payloads, and known attack signatures that might include SQL injection commands or XSS scripts.

Rule-based detection

WAF employs various rule sets to detect and stop threats. These rules define the normal and abnormal traffic behavior for a web application. For example, one of the rules could be to block the request that contains certain keywords or patterns in the message body that could be associated with SQL injection. The rules can be customized according to the needs of the web application.

Behavioral analysis

Apart from rule-based detection, some advanced WAFs will make use of various behavior analysis techniques. Fundamentally, this is the process of monitoring typical user behaviors to identify deviations that could be indicative of an attack. For example, if the user suddenly starts sending a large number of requests in a very short period, then probably a WAF will raise a red flag for a DDoS attack.

Real-time response

In the event of a threat, the WAF instantly acts to block the request from further passing on to the web application. Responsiveness in real-time is critical in suspending an attack before any serious damage occurs. Furthermore, WAFs can also generate alerts or log messages to inform administrators about identified threats and consequential actions that were performed to stop them.

By combining inspection, detection, and response mechanisms, a WAF can significantly increase the security of a network. Unsurprisingly, these days, WAFs are often a critical part of any comprehensive cybersecurity strategy.

Why is a WAF important?

Safeguard sensitive information

The amount of sensitive information that exists in web applications is vast. Sensitive data includes personally identifiable data, financial details, and proprietary business data. In cases of successful cyberattacks and breaches, all such information is exposed. The role of WAF here is to prevent such incidents by blocking off malicious traffic to the web application and disallowing unauthorized access.

Avoid compliance fines and costs

Most industries are governed by stringent regulatory laws concerning data protection and privacy. Non-compliance with these regulations is your one-way ticket to heavy fines and lawsuits. A WAF makes it easier for businesses to comply with regulations by providing the much-needed security layer. Proactive measures taken to safeguard sensitive data mean peace of mind and better chances of avoiding hefty fines.

Preserve reputation

Today, a company’s reputation is often related to its ability to protect customer data and maintain secure online services. A single successful cyber attack on an organization can put its reputation down the gutter once and for all. Implementing a WAF can mitigate such risk and further improve the reputation. Ultimately, most consumers trust a business, which means security not only in their PR statements but also in their actions.

Differences between WAF and network firewall

While WAFs and Network Firewalls both play a critical role in cybersecurity, they serve rather different purposes, and, as discussed, operate at different levels within a network. Here’s a rundown of the key differences between the two.

The role of WAFs

Security of web applications

As we discussed earlier, WAFs are built for the protection of web applications by filtering and analyzing HTTP traffic. HTTP is the protocol used for transferring data on the web, and WAFs focus on this traffic to defend against web-based attacks. WAFs can trace malicious activity against the application layer by analyzing the content of HTTP requests and responses since it works at Layer 7 of the OSI model.

Layer 7 protection

Layer 7 is where user interactions with software applications take place. As a part of their operation, WAFs track this layer for detailed content data about HTTP traffic. For example, an attacker could try to insert malicious code into a web form to gain unauthorized access to sensitive data; in such an instance, a WAF would detect and block that attempt immediately. This kind of sophisticated protection is critical for securing web applications against a variety of threats.

Should an attacker try to gain access to sensitive information by inserting malignant code in a web form, a WAF will block this attempt. This type of targeted protection is important to safeguard web applications from sophisticated threats.

The role of network firewalls

Protection of the network

A network firewall works toward protecting the entire network by managing incoming and outgoing traffic through filtering against a set of predefined security rules. It works at the network layer and the transport layer of the OSI model. These layers are responsible for proficient routing and reliable delivery of data packets in a given network. Network firewalls focus on threats like unauthorized access, DDoS attacks, and malware, ensuring that only legitimate traffic is allowed to pass through.

Layer 3 and 4 protection

Layer 3 is the network layer, including logical addressing of data packets to ensure that data sent from one device reaches the right destination, while Layer 4 is a transport layer responsible for the reliable transmission of data between devices. Network firewalls regulate the flow of data toward the destination based on IP address ports, and protocols. For example, they can be used to prevent an attacker from using an open port to access the network and so gain unauthorized access to network resources.

Bottom line

In an era where cyber threats are becoming increasingly sophisticated and pervasive, the importance of robust web security measures cannot be overstated. The implementation of a WAF is a vital component of contemporary web security. It provides the necessary tools to detect, prevent, and respond to web-based threats in real-time, ensuring the integrity and availability of web applications. As cyber threats continue to evolve, investing in a robust WAF solution will remain a critical priority for organizations seeking to protect their digital assets and maintain the trust of their users.

For comprehensive security, it’s essential to protect not only your web applications but also your access credentials. Just as a WAF safeguards against web-based threats, a robust password management solution like NordPass Enterprise ensures that your organization’s passwords are protected from unauthorized access and are easily accessible at all times. NordPass provides features such as secure password sharing, automated password generation, and real-time breach monitoring, aligning perfectly with the goals of a WAF by adding an extra layer of security to your web infrastructure.

About Version 2 Limited
Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

About NordPass
NordPass is developed by Nord Security, a company leading the global market of cybersecurity products.

The web has become a chaotic space where safety and trust have been compromised by cybercrime and data protection issues. Therefore, our team has a global mission to shape a more trusted and peaceful online future for people everywhere.

What to do if a scammer has your email address

Can you tell who has your email address?

Initially just a method for sending letter-like messages across the internet, email has now become an integral part of everyone’s digital lives. We use it when signing up for services, creating app accounts, sharing files with our friends and colleagues, shopping online, and more – essentially making email a virtual equivalent of an ID card.

Given its various applications, it’s easy to lose track of who has our email address. Most users wouldn’t be able to name everyone who knows their email if asked. Consequently, many people may not realize that their email address has fallen into the hands of someone who might exploit it for personal gain.

If you’re concerned, let us help you find out if your email address has been compromised and understand why it might have been.

How to tell if a scammer has your email

If you trust your observational skills, there are key signs you should watch for that could indicate a scammer has gained access to your email address. These signs often include:

  1. You get many scam emails

    Have you noticed an increase in emails asking for your personal information or claiming urgent action is needed? This could indicate that a scammer has your email address and is using phishing tactics to coerce you into exposing sensitive data.

  2. You receive unexpected 2FA requests

    If you get unexpected two-factor authentication requests for services you haven’t accessed, it could mean someone is trying to gain unauthorized access to your account using your email.

  3. You have problems logging into your online accounts

    Are you experiencing difficulties accessing your online accounts, even with the correct credentials? If so, then it is very likely that someone has used your email to gain access and changed your login information, effectively locking you out of your accounts.

  4. Your contacts received messages from your email address that you haven’t sent

    If your friends or colleagues mention receiving suspicious emails that appear to be from you, it could be that your email account has been compromised. The attacker might be using your account to deceive your contacts into sharing sensitive information that could be used against them.

Bear in mind, however, that today’s hackers know how to cover their tracks and operate discreetly to minimize any signs of wrongdoing. This is to say that finding out whether a scammer has exploited your email address can often be ambiguous and may require more than just keeping your eyes peeled.

Fortunately, there are digital tools available today that can help you find out if a breach has occurred. Take NordPass’ Data Breach Scanner, for example – a tool that scans the dark web for any mentions of your email address. With this solution, you can quickly check if your email address has been compromised and take the necessary action without having to monitor for signs of unusual behavior on your device.

 

What scammers can do with your email address

Although we’ve touched on this topic in the previous section, it’s crucial to take a closer look at the potential dangers posed by scammers who want to exploit your email address. First of all, malicious actors may use phishing tactics to trick you into revealing sensitive personal information, or they might distribute malware via deceptive emails in an attempt to compromise your device’s security.

Moreover, if hackers gain unauthorized access to your email account, they can commit identity theft and financial fraud, as well as take over your online accounts, and access other linked services and sensitive information stored in your email. All these risks highlight the urgent need for you to protect your email address and respond immediately to any signs of data compromise.

What you can do if a scammer has your email

Depending on the timing in the “a scammer got my email” scenario—whether it’s before or after they’ve used the email address for nefarious purposes—there are different actions you can (and should) take. Let’s explore both scenarios and discuss steps to protect your data.

If a scammer only has your email address

At this point, nothing critical has happened yet, but you should stay vigilant, as phishing attempts could arrive at any moment. This means you need to be extra aware that someone might try to use your email to gain access to your digital belongings.

To secure your account, first ensure your email password is complex (consisting of letters, numbers, and symbols arranged randomly) and at least 12 characters long to resist brute-force attacks. Consider using a robust password manager like NordPass to generate and store strong passwords for all your accounts—including email—so you can avoid creating weak passwords and stop relying on your memory for storage.

Second, enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) on your email account to make it extra difficult for cybercriminals to gain access. Additionally, regularly review your email account activity and set up alerts for unusual login behavior to catch any unauthorized access attempts early.

If a scammer has already gained access to your email account

Things get really serious when someone gains access to your email account and starts using it to wreak havoc. However, this doesn’t mean you have to stand by and watch a cyberattacker carry out their malicious activities. If your email account has been compromised, you can and should act quickly.

Firstly, if you still have access to your account, go to your email settings and change your password immediately. Then, request the platform to log you out of all sessions after the password change to block the hacker’s access and regain control. Also, if you haven’t already, enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) to prevent similar security incidents in the future.

If you cannot access your account because the hacker has changed your login credentials, contact your email provider as soon as possible to report the security breach. Inform them about your situation so that their customer support team can help you restore access, reset your password, and lock out any unauthorized parties.

Once you’re certain that access to your email account is secure again, run antivirus or antimalware tools to thoroughly scan your device for any lingering malicious software that may still pose a threat. Additionally, review your account activity to identify any unauthorized changes made by the attacker while they had access.

How to protect your email account

Whether you must react to an unauthorized account takeover or aim to prevent such incidents altogether, you have several options to safeguard your email account. We’ve already discussed some: using a data breach scanner to monitor if your email address has been compromised, strengthening passwords against brute force attacks, and enabling multi-factor authentication so that a password alone isn’t sufficient for access.

Another option we touched on earlier, but will expand on now, is using a password manager like NordPass to protect your email account. With NordPass, you can generate highly secure passwords for your email and all your other accounts, and store them all in an encrypted vault accessible only to you. You can also use NordPass as an authenticator app to provide two-factor authentication codes for enhanced security.

Additionally, NordPass comes with two major features that can help you significantly enhance your email account’s security. The first is the Data Breach Scanner feature, which, as you already know, scans the dark web to check if your email has been compromised. The other feature is Email Masking, which lets you create an artificial email address when you sign up for newsletters or online services, ensuring that you can avoid exposing your real email address if you choose not to.

NordPass offers all these features to help you elevate the security of your email account and more. Given its value, it would be a missed opportunity not to try it out in its 14-day trial, wouldn’t it? The choice is yours.

About Version 2 Limited
Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

About NordPass
NordPass is developed by Nord Security, a company leading the global market of cybersecurity products.

The web has become a chaotic space where safety and trust have been compromised by cybercrime and data protection issues. Therefore, our team has a global mission to shape a more trusted and peaceful online future for people everywhere.

How to change autofill settings on iPhone

How to manage autofill for your contact information

Here’s how you can quickly edit your contact information, such as your address or phone number:

  1. Open Settings on your iPhone.

  2. Scroll down and tap on Safari.

  3. Select Autofill.

  4. Tap on My Info and choose your contact card.

  5. Update your information in the Contacts app, and it will automatically reflect in your autofill settings.

How to manage autofill for your credit card information

Storing your credit card information on your iPhone can make online shopping a breeze. Here’s how to add or update your credit card details:

  1. Open Settings.

  2. Go to Safari.

  3. Tap on Autofill.

  4. Select Saved Credit Cards.

  5. Authenticate via Face ID, Touch ID, or passcode.

  6. You can also add a new card by tapping Add Credit Card or update existing ones by selecting the card you want to edit.

How to autofill passwords on iPhone

Automatically filling out passwords saves time and reduces frustration related to manually typing long, complex passwords. Using autofill also allows you to forget your passwords, which is a nice bonus.

Here’s how to start using the autofill feature for passwords on your iPhone:

  1. Open Settings.

  2. Tap the Apple ID banner.

  3. Select iCloud.

  4. Tap Passwords and Keychain.

  5. Turn on the Sync this iPhone toggle switch and enter your Apple ID credentials if prompted.

Here’s how you can add new passwords or manage them on your iOS device:

  1. Open Settings.

  2. Scroll down to Passwords.

  3. Use Face ID, Touch ID, or passcode to access your saved passwords.

  4. Here, you can add new passwords or update existing ones.

Here’s an in-depth guide about managing your passwords on an iPhone.

Why could NordPass be a better option for managing your passwords and personal information?

While built-in options like the native iOS Passwords app provide basic functionalities, NordPass takes password and personal information management to a markedly higher level.

One of NordPass’s standout features is its seamless synchronization, allowing users to access their passwords and personal information across multiple devices and platforms—be it Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, or iOS. This cross-compatibility is a significant advantage for users who operate within diverse technological ecosystems​.

NordPass also goes beyond simple password management and offers a comprehensive suite of advanced tools designed to help individuals and businesses alike improve their digital security.

The Data Breach Scanner provides a way to check whether your sensitive data such as emails, passwords, or personal information, has been compromised in a breach. You can also set Breach Monitoring and receive real-time alerts in case your data appears in the breach.

Complementing the Data Breach Scanner, the Password Health feature can help you identify weak, old, and reused passwords, improving your passwords and overall security posture.

In addition, NordPass includes an Email Masking feature—a tool that generates fake, disposable email addresses that can be leveraged for online signups, making sure your real email remains a secret. This limits spam, and minimizes the risks of phishing.

In terms of support, NordPass offers 24/7 customer service, ensuring that help is available whenever it is needed. If you are already using NordPass, here’s a quick guide on enabling the NordPass autofill on iOS.

FAQ

How do I change the autofill address on my iPhone?

Open Settings. Select Safari, click Autofill, and choose My Info. Select your contact card. Update your address in the Contacts app, and it will automatically update your autofill settings.

How do I turn off autofill on my iPhone?

If you prefer not to use autofill, you can turn it off by going to Settings, selecting Safari, and taping Autofill. Toggle off the options for Use Contact Info and Credit Cards.

About Version 2 Limited
Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

About NordPass
NordPass is developed by Nord Security, a company leading the global market of cybersecurity products.

The web has become a chaotic space where safety and trust have been compromised by cybercrime and data protection issues. Therefore, our team has a global mission to shape a more trusted and peaceful online future for people everywhere.

Introducing NordPass Authenticator for Business

NordPass Authenticator is a unique feature that generates one-time passwords directly in your NordPass vault. It gives you all the security of two-factor authentication without an extra app.

Two-factor authentication (2FA) is the talk of the town in the corporate world for a reason. As the risk of passwords getting stolen, hacked, or guessed via brute-force attacks is ever-increasing, 2FA offers an additional layer of security to your accounts. In other words, 2FA protects accounts that would otherwise rely on passwords, typically weak ones, as their sole authentication method. So even if cybercriminals were to access your passwords, they’d be faced with an additional barrier to jump over.

However, while 2FA is quickly becoming the new standard, adding an extra step to the login process remains a stumbling block for many. Setting up two-factor solutions can be clunky, confusing, and time-consuming, appearing as more of a challenge than a convenience for employees. And employees’ annoyance isn’t just damaging to morale – it presents a serious security risk.

Cybercriminals can exploit this vulnerability with brute-force attacks. They send one second-factor request after another until users, out of exasperation or uncertainty, end up authenticating an unauthorized access request. This technique, known as MFA fatigue, was a key component in the 2023 Caesars and MGM casinos breach.

How can businesses implement two-factor authentication while avoiding its pitfalls?

NordPass Authenticator offers a simpler way to protect accounts with two-factor authentication. In a leap toward a passwordless future, NordPass patented the Stateless System To Protect Data (US Patent No. 11,528,130). This solution combines the highest security standards without compromising usability by offering multiple authentication factors within a single app.

What is NordPass Authenticator?

NordPass Authenticator is a feature that lets your organization’s members add an extra layer of security to their accounts with two-factor authentication without downloading or checking additional apps.

How does NordPass Authenticator work?

With the Authenticator, NordPass performs a double task – in addition to managing passwords, it acts as an authentication app, providing two-factor codes for any credentials stored in the vault.

If the account has 2FA switched on, you’re prompted to enter a time-based one-time password (TOTP) to unlock the account during each login attempt. NordPass members can securely unlock the verification code inside NordPass using their biometric data. That way, they don’t need to rely on authentication methods like text messages, which are prone to smishing attacks, or third-party apps like Google Authenticator or Authy.

What problems does NordPass Authenticator solve?

NordPass Authenticator helps resolve the challenges of adding an additional security layer to employee accounts. It also addresses some of the most common usability issues and vulnerabilities seen in other 2FA solutions.

Setting up two-factor authentication with TOTPs in NordPass includes benefits such as:

  • Providing phishing-resistant authentication.

  • Preventing “MFA fatigue” for credentials managed by NordPass.

  • Eliminating the need to download and manage third-party software.

  • Allowing users to add 2FA to all accounts, including those with shared passwords.

What makes NordPass Authenticator better?

Stronger security

Two-factor authentication is not just an extra step to access your accounts. It needs to be completely distinct from the first factor – in this instance, the password – and involve a different authentication type.

nordpass authenticator

The most common authentication factors can be split into three categories:

  1. Something you have – a possession factor, such as a device or token.

  2. Something you know – a knowledge factor, such as a password or TOTP.

  3. Something you are – an inherence factor or a biometric factor, such as a fingerprint or facial recognition.

Imagine you require both a key and a fob for additional security to enter your office. These two “authenticators” use the same technique to open the door – they’re something you have. If, in addition to falling under the same “factor” category, the key and the fob are attached to each other or are always stored in the same place, this security method is no more secure than the key alone. It gives the illusion of additional security without the actual benefit.

Cybersecurity works much in the same way. The password is a common “first factor.” If your second factor also falls under the “something you know” category and is stored alongside your first factor – say, in a password manager – then it doesn’t meet the 2FA security standards. That’s because the first and second factors share the same path for entry: Your master password.

Using patented technology, NordPass has overcome this limitation and delivers all the security benefits of a true second factor in the easiest and most accessible way possible.

NordPass combines something you know (your Master Password) with authentication through something you are (fingerprint or Face ID) on something you have (your device) to unlock the time-based one-time password. Combining multiple factors leads to a higher security standard and genuine second-factor authentication that’s more than just two-step verification.

More convenience

Many businesses are already overwhelmed by apps. The trend of perpetual software adoption has accelerated with the popularity of remote and hybrid work options. The last thing your peers and the IT team need is one more application whose sole purpose is generating time-based one-time passwords.

NordPass generates the codes for you without the hassle of using another authentication app. NordPass Authenticator helps improve cross-team collaboration by allowing members to share passwords that have second-factor authentication – no more two-factor code sharing on unencrypted chats or spreadsheets. Once you share a password, the recipient can unlock the TOTP code using biometrics on their device, saving time and effort and maintaining security measures intact.

Say goodbye to the hassle of sharing access to 2FA-protected accounts. From now on, your team can easily grant access with just a couple of clicks without compromising your company’s security. When it comes to security software, convenience isn’t just “nice to have” – it means the difference between your team adopting the solution or not.

Better transparency

Managing two-factor authentication inside your password management app offers more transparency and control over your cybersecurity. First, it allows you to verify whether your team members are using 2FA and for which accounts. This allows your organization to perform a more accurate audit of account and credential security, helping it turn policy into practice in a tangible way.

Second, it lets you maintain control and consistency over mandatory workplace app usage. Otherwise, your team would likely adopt a hodgepodge of different authenticator apps, preventing your organization from enforcing tailor-made security protocols and training materials.

Who can use NordPass Authenticator?

NordPass Authenticator is available on the browser extension and mobile devices with all tiers of business accounts. This User Guide provides more information on how to add our built-in authenticator to your business accounts.

And if you’re yet to check out what NordPass has to offer, go ahead and start your free 14-day trial today. Alongside NordPass Authenticator, you’ll access other security-focused features for a more convenient work experience, including Password Health, Email Masking, Data Breach Scanner, and secure sharing.

With NordPass, you can take your organizational security to the next level without compromising productivity and efficiency.

About Version 2 Limited
Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

About NordPass
NordPass is developed by Nord Security, a company leading the global market of cybersecurity products.

The web has become a chaotic space where safety and trust have been compromised by cybercrime and data protection issues. Therefore, our team has a global mission to shape a more trusted and peaceful online future for people everywhere.

What is a passphrase — and how does it compare to a password?

Riddle: What works like a password but isn’t one?

Passwords continue to be the most used method for verifying your identity when logging into online services and applications—which isn’t necessarily an issue provided that you handle your passwords properly. Specifically, you must always make sure the complexity and length of your passwords are optimal.

A strong password should be at least 12 characters long and comprise a random combination of numbers, symbols, and uppercase and lowercase letters. While such a password may be difficult to remember, it’s always better to prioritize strength over memorability.

But what if we told you there’s an alternative—a credential that can be stored and managed just like passwords, yet is easier to remember and believed by many to offer even better security? Ever heard of passphrases? That’s the alternative we’re referring to.

What is a passphrase, exactly?

Generally speaking, a passphrase is a sequence of words or a complete sentence used for user authentication. It is, as you can imagine, typically longer than a password, especially because it can include spaces between words.

For example, let’s take a random phrase like ‘no more riddles in this article’—this entire 31-character sequence of words can be used as a passphrase. Of course, since most systems have no limits, your passphrases can be even longer. So, if you want to use one of Shakespeare’s sonnets or what’s written out on the first page of the American Constitution as your passphrase, you are free to do so.

The way you set up a passphrase for your online account is by entering it when a service or application prompts you to create a password. That’s why we said you can manage your passphrases just like you handle your passwords—the difference lies only in the combination of characters you use to log in.

Passphrase vs. password: which one is better?

Passphrases are widely recognized as safer than traditional passwords for several important reasons. Their extensive length and the option to include spaces between words can greatly enhance security against brute-force attacks. Crafting passphrases from meaningful phrases or sentences can significantly improve usability by making them easier to memorize.

In contrast, traditional passwords, with their shorter length and complex character requirements, can be challenging to remember and susceptible to cracking, posing a higher security risk in both scenarios.

When to use a passphrase and when to use a password

For optimal security, we recommend using passphrases since they can be both easy to remember and highly secure. Consisting of multiple words or a full sentence, passphrases are ideal for online accounts where usability and strong security are essential. In contrast, using a traditional password is more suitable in situations requiring shorter, more complex combinations that are challenging for automated tools to crack.

 

How to create a strong passphrase

If you want to create a truly strong passphrase, be sure to combine unrelated words or phrases that are memorable to you but difficult for others to guess. The words can describe anything, such as your favorite color, the type of animal you have, the title of your favorite movie, or the food you dislike—just make sure you select a few and arrange them sequentially.

You can also make your passphrases even stronger by including a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols, just as you would do with passwords.

Where can you securely store and manage your passphrases?

Since the process of creating and using passphrases is similar to that of handling passwords, using a password manager for passphrases is highly recommended. However, it’s important to choose not just any password manager but one that offers features and design ensuring enhanced security and usability.

A good choice would be NordPass due to its encrypted vault, which allows you to securely store your credentials in one safe place. NordPass also offers convenient autosave and autofill functionalities that can simplify and enhance your login experience. If you prefer using passwords, NordPass can further improve your digital life with features like the Password Generator that instantly creates complex passwords and automatically stores them in your vault.

So, give NordPass a try and see what it can do to boost your cybersecurity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How often should I change my passphrase?

Ideally, you should change your passphrase every few months to enhance security. However, if you suspect it may have been compromised or there are any security concerns, you must update your passphrase immediately.

Can a passphrase be too long?

A passphrase can technically be as long as the system allows, but excessively long passphrases may become impractical to remember or type in accurately. So, it’s generally a good practice to balance length with usability when creating a passphrase.

What should I do if I forget my passphrase?

If you forget your passphrase, you should follow the recovery process provided by the service or application where the passphrase is used. This usually includes using account recovery options such as security questions, email verification, or getting in touch with customer support.

How can I remember my passphrases without writing them down?

To remember your passphrases without writing them down, just use a password manager. This will allow you to securely store and organize your passphrases, ensuring they’re accessible whenever needed without compromising your security.

Is it safe to store my passphrases in a password manager?

Storing your passphrases in a password manager is generally safe. However, the level of security can vary depending on the specific password manager you choose. Using a tool like NordPass ensures you receive robust protection, with features designed to keep your passphrases secure and protected against unauthorized access.

About Version 2 Limited
Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

About NordPass
NordPass is developed by Nord Security, a company leading the global market of cybersecurity products.

The web has become a chaotic space where safety and trust have been compromised by cybercrime and data protection issues. Therefore, our team has a global mission to shape a more trusted and peaceful online future for people everywhere.

NordPass Desktop App: Release Notes

NordPass 5.17 (latest) 

Hold on to your seat — we’ve got some very exciting news to announce:

  • TOTP is now live on Chrome and Firefox browsers for NordPass business users. You can now create time-based one-time passwords on your favorite browser.

  • Autofill issue on Google fixed. Autofill got confused; it recognized Google login forms but treated them as new account creation forms. From this release on, the glitch has been fixed, and you’ll no longer see incorrect prompts.

NordPass 5.16

Building good things takes time. So since the last release, we’ve mainly focused on catching and eliminating pesky bugs.

NordPass 5.15

  • Item Sharing: We’ve revamped our sharing permissions so that you can now enjoy more control over the access a friend, family member or colleague has to an item. More permission options + more flexibility = more peace of mind. Check out the changes in your vault today!

  • Import: You can now easily transfer data from KeePass into NordPass via an XML file.

NordPass 5.14

Looking to import data into NordPass from another password manager? Good news we now support more file formats such as JSON, ZIP, and 1PUX.

NordPass 5.13

Introducing the latest NordPass updates:

  • New Feature: Instant Login: Logging into accounts just got even easier. Gone are the days of manually tapping the NordPass icon to fill in your passwords. With this update, NordPass automatically detects when you’re on a login page and offers to fill in your credentials for you. We hope you’ll enjoy the seamless login experience, but if you prefer the traditional method, fear not–you can disable this feature in Settings.

  • Email Masking Update: Forgot why you set up email masks? No worries! Now, you can easily identify which of your accounts are safeguarded by email masks with a quick glance.

NordPass 5.12

We’re kicking off 2024 with a few game-changing updates:

  • Email Masking: Say hello to our brand new Premium tool — Email Masking! With this tool, you can protect your real email address from spam and online threats by creating unique email masks every time a website asks for your details. With full control over email forwarding included as well, this tool really puts you in the driving seat.

  • Data Breach Scanner: We’ve enhanced this all-important tool so that you can now get real-time alerts if your credit card appears in a breach. We hope you enjoy the new look and feel too!

  • Import: We’ve tweaked our import settings so that you can now easily move all of your Proton Pass items over to NordPass.

NordPass 5.11

“Spreek je Nederlands?” Because we now do! That’s right, you can now use the NordPass extension and desktop app in Dutch — simply head over to Settings to adjust your preferred language. 

NordPass 5.10

We’ve waved bye-bye to some pesky bugs and have also spruced up the place a touch. Stay tuned for some big news that’s just around the corner!

NordPass 5.9

Hold on to your seat — we’ve got some very exciting news to announce:

  • Browser Extension: You now have the option to use a new standalone NordPass browser extension that doesn’t require our desktop app! That’s right, you can now enjoy a fast, fully browser-based NordPass experience on Chrome, Firefox, Safari and more.

  • Autofill: You asked, we’ve listened. You can now tweak your app settings to enjoy a better autofill experience on websites with a subdomain.

  • Password Health: When logging in to a website, you’ll now be prompted if your password is weak or reused so that you can quickly act to reduce the risk of your data falling into the wrong hands. 

NordPass 5.8

Gather round, folks — we’ve got some exciting updates to share:

  • Data hosting: Organizations using NordPass Business or Enterprise can now choose to store company data in the European Union.

  • Autofill: You can now instantly search for a specific item to autofill on a webpage if it’s not automatically suggested for you.

  • Custom fields: You can now personalize your NordPass experience by adding custom fields to all item types. From passport numbers and bank details to dates of birth, you’re free to securely store exactly what you need.

NordPass 5.7

Here are just a couple of highlights from our latest release:

  • Autofill: As some websites (e.g. facebook.com and messenger.com) require you to use the same login credentials, you can now add multiple web addresses to a single NordPass password item for a smoother autofill experience. Faster account access and a tidier vault sounds good to us.

  • Passkeys: Already using biometrics to unlock your NordPass vault? Good news you can now also use your face or fingerprint to verify your identity when using a passkey.

NordPass 5.6

We’ve given our passkey prompts a fresh coat of paint and have also now built them directly into the web browser experience, meaning no more jumping back and forth between our desktop app. Enjoy!

NordPass 5.5

With NordPass Enterprise, you can now instantly share a shared folder with a group! That’s right, instead of having to add teammates one by one to a shared folder, you can now share the folder with a large group of people in one go. Happy updating!

NordPass 5.4

Here’s what’s new in the latest NordPass release:

  • NordPass Business: Users can now move items with two-factor codes to shared folders. If a member has set up NordPass as an authenticator, they will be able to access the item’s two-factor code immediately.

  • Bug fixes: We’ve also fixed a few bugs and improved our app’s performance.

NordPass 5.3

As some web services now require an additional identity check to use a passkey, we’ve added a new authentication step to our passkey creation and login flows so that you can continue using passkeys to securely access your accounts.

NordPass 5.2

You asked, we’ve listened – our latest release is inspired by your valuable feedback:

  • Passkeys: You can now better control how often you see certain NordPass passkey prompts on websites. We’ve also introduced a new button in a couple of our passkey flows so that you can more easily switch to using another passkey solution instead of NordPass.

  • Autofill: You now have the power to change the autofill behavior of website form fields so that you’re suggested exactly the right information you’re looking for. For example, if you’re suggested credit card details on a login page, you can adjust the autofill logic so that you’re correctly suggested a password item in future.

  • File attachments: You can now save time by viewing attached .jpg and .png image files directly in the app, meaning there’s no longer a need to first download them.

Thanks as always for sharing your thoughts with us. If anything else crosses your mind, you can always find us at  support@nordpass.com.

NordPass 5.1

No major updates this time, just a new and improved app release with some under-the-hood performance upgrades – enjoy!

NordPass 5.0

Introducing… file attachments!

That’s right, with NordPass Premium you can now conveniently attach documents and images to any item so that you’ve got access to all-important info when you need it most. Contracts, copies of your IDs, cat photos – you name it, you can securely store it. We hope you enjoy this highly requested feature!

NordPass 4.38

Remember when we said we had some big news to announce soon? Well, here it is… say hello to a new item category: passkeys!

Passkeys are unique, end-to-end encrypted login credentials that are stronger and more convenient to use than passwords.

You can now use NordPass to create passkeys on supported websites. NordPass will also securely store your passkeys so you can use them to instantly log in to your accounts online.

Passwordless authentication: unlocked. Enjoy!

NordPass 4.37

We’ve waved bye-bye to some pesky bugs and have also spruced up the place a touch – enjoy!

NordPass 4.36

We’re starting off 2023 on the right foot with a release that’s faster and more reliable. Stay tuned for some bigger announcements!

NordPass 4.35

No major updates this time, just a new and improved app release with some under-the-hood performance upgrades – enjoy!

NordPass 4.34

We’re happy to present you with a new release. Here’s what we’ve got this time:

  • DESIGN CHANGES TO ITEMS. We updated how your item details are displayed. Hope you’ll like it.

NordPass 4.33

Building good things takes time. So since the last release, we have mainly focused on catching and eliminating pesky bugs.

NordPass 4.32

This time we’ve waved bye-bye to some pesky bugs and have also spruced up the place a touch – enjoy.

NordPass 4.31

We’re happy to present you with a new release. Here’s what we’ve got this time:

  • AUTOFILL DISABLEMENT ON WEBSITES. You can now disable autofill on any page that you don’t want to fill your details. It won’t reset when you refresh the page but you can turn it back on at any time.

  • BUG FIXES.

NordPass 4.30

Here’s what you’ll see in the new NordPass release:

  • ONBOARDING UPDATE. New users will be greeted by a refreshed onboarding experience that will help them familiarize themselves with NordPass.

NordPass 4.29

No major updates this time, just a new and improved app release with some under-the-hood performance upgrades – enjoy!

NordPass 4.28

Building good things takes time. So since the last release, we have mainly focused on catching and eliminating pesky bugs.

NordPass 4.27

This time we’ve waved bye-bye to some pesky bugs and have also spruced up the place a touch – enjoy!

NordPass 4.26

No big announcements from us this time. However, we hope you’ll still enjoy an updated NordPass version with fewer bugs and better autofill.

recovery code

NordPass 4.25

Our bug busters have been working hard since the last time you heard from us. That’s why today we can proudly present another NordPass release with even fewer bugs. We hope you’ll like it.

NordPass 4.24

Building good things takes time. So since the last release, we have mainly focused on catching and eliminating pesky bugs.

NordPass 4.23

We’re happy to present you with a new NordPass release. Here’s what we’ve got this time:

  • UPDATED PASSWORD INFO. Now you’ll get more guidance on making your passwords more secure. Open any of your passwords, and you’ll see whether it’s been reused on other accounts or it’s too old and needs changing.

  • BUG FIXES. Rome wasn’t built in a day. Therefore, we continuously aim to catch pesky bugs and provide you with the best password management experience.

NordPass 4.22

Here’s what you’ll see in the new NordPass release:

  • SWITCH ACCOUNT. A long-awaited feature is here! If you have a few NordPass accounts, like personal and business, switching between them will now be a breeze. Just click on your profile account and look for a “Switch Account” button.

  • LITHUANIAN LANGUAGE. For our Lithuanian friends out there, you can now use NordPass in your mother tongue. Simply head to Settings to change the language.

  • BUG FIXES.

NordPass 4.21

Our bug busters have been working hard since the last time you heard from us. That’s why today we can proudly present another NordPass release with even fewer bugs. We hope you’ll like it.

NordPass 4.20

We’re happy to present you with a new NordPass release. Here’s what we’ve got this week:

  • CARD PIN. From now on, you can also add your PIN when saving card details. Don’t worry; it won’t be autofilled. It’s for your reference only.

  • DELETE CLIPBOARD SETTING. When you copy your password or other item data, it’s normally saved in the clipboard. To avoid pasting it somewhere you didn’t intend; you can now choose the clipboard to clear after a set time.

  • BUG FIXES.

NordPass 4.19

It’s international women’s day! So we want to take this opportunity and say thank you to all the beautiful women who tirelessly work at NordPass. It wouldn’t be the same without you.

P.S. We mainly focused on fixing bugs this time, so we hope you like a better running app.

NordPass 4.18

Here’s what you’ll see in the new NordPass release:

  • SUBDOMAIN SORTING IMPROVEMENTS. From now on, if you have multiple items saved for one domain, the account with the matching subdomain will be shown first.

  • BUG FIXES.

NordPass 4.17

Did you know that January has a Blue Monday – the most depressing day of the year? The good news is it’s over. But if you’re still feeling a little bit blue, here’s a few things we’ve updated to hopefully cheer you up.

  • Safari import. You can now import passwords saved in Safari straight to NordPass.

  • Data Breach Report update. If your password appears in a Data Breach report and you update it on the website, select “Resolve” and the same details won’t appear next time you run the report.

  • Bug fixes. Caught many annoying bugs that hinder your experience.

Some write songs, some dedicate sonnets, some built monuments. We create release notes to honor each update of NordPass app for Windows, macOS and Linux. A single click of that magical “Update” button unlocks the newer, faster, better-performing world of stress-free password management.

NordPass 4.16

As Christmas is over, it’s time to make some New Year’s resolutions. But why wait? We want to become a better, smoother-running, and more user-friendly app now. We have strived for perfection since NordPass was launched, and this week is no exception. So we present you a new NordPass version with fewer bugs and more Autofill fixes.

NordPass 4.15

A good beginning makes a good ending, so why not start a week with a new NordPass release? Here’s what we’ve got this week:

  • BREACH SCANNER UPDATE. If your password was leaked in a data breach and you’ve reused it on other accounts, a new ‘Accounts at risk` tab will appear. There you’ll see a list of accounts that may be vulnerable. Don’t wait for a second and change their passwords to prevent cyber attacks.

  • AUTOFILL UPDATE. We’ve fixed a ton of autofill bugs so you’d have a smoother autofill experience on even more websites.

NordPass 4.14

We know that sometimes life throws challenges right at you. At those times, the last thing you want to think about is how and where to access your passwords.

That’s why from now on, you can give emergency access to your passwords and other items. Choose a person you really trust and invite them to be your emergency contact. Once they accept it, you can give them access immediately or wait for 7 days to be given automatically. Note: You can only give emergency access to another NordPass user with a Personal or Family plan.

NordPass 4.13

Trick or treat? Who are we kidding? It’s always just treated here at NordPass. So here’s our Halloween treat to you – a brand new NordPass release. Don’t worry, nothing to be scared of—just a smoother running version of your password manager.

NordPass 4.12

Tired of too many emails and banners? We get you, and we want to improve our communication with you. That’s why from now on, a lot of important information will appear as in-app notifications. So if you open the app and see a red dot next to a bell icon, just know that it’s something important from us to you.

P.S. We also solved a number of bugs.

NordPass 4.11

Getting your data stolen isn’t nice. But if that happens to you, it’s important to identify the stolen information and act quickly. That’s why with this release, Data Breach Scanner has gone even better. How?

If your data has ever appeared in any breach, you can now use the Breach Scanner to identify not just what type of data was leaked, but also see it in plain text. This includes passwords, your address, social security number, birth date, and other data types.

In addition to all this, we are continually working to improve one of our core features – Autofill. So expect to see more websites working flawlessly with NordPass.

NordPass 4.10

Can’t find tools to improve your password security? We got you. You’ll find security tools such as Password Generator, Data Breach Scanner, and Password Health in the sidebar from this release. More accessible to access and easier to use.

We also solved some pesky bugs to make your NordPass experience more enjoyable.

NordPass 4.9

What do you have in the box this time NordPass? Well, let me see…

  • Title and website address suggestion. That’s right, now when creating a new item, you only need to enter a few letters in the Title or Website address fields, and NordPass will suggest filling it with one of the thousand popular websites.

  • Spanish and Italian languages are now available on the NordPass extension.

  • Bug fixes, bug fixes, and more bug fixes.

NordPass 4.8

It’s August my friend. And you know what August is good for? Learning new languages.

Hablas español? Parli italiano? If you do, lucky you. Because you can now use NordPass in Spanish and Italian. Enjoy!

NordPass 4.7

Did you know that no one else has the same fingerprint as you? That’s why it’s the most unique password you can have. Dedicated Mac users, this release is for you. Yes, you can now sign in to your NordPass app with a fingerprint. Feeling like James Bond yet? We are!

P.S. We also solved a ton of pesky bugs to make your experience smoother than ever.

NordPass 4.6

Dear bugs, it’s time. Time to say goodbye. It won’t be the same without you. It will be better. The password managing experience will be much greater now.

NordPass 4.5

It’s officially summer, NordPass people! (Or winter, if you live in the southern hemisphere.) Wherever you are, we hope it’s sunny so that you can enjoy the brand new release. Here’s what we’ve got:

  • MULTIPLE ITEM SHARING. Sharing is caring, right? Well, now you can select multiple items and share them all at once. Easy peasy. Just always make sure you trust the people you share your credentials with.

  • PASSWORD GENERATOR HISTORY. You know that moment when you create a super-strong password with the NordPass Generator and forget to save it? Yeah, we’ve been there too. That’s why you’ll now see a little clock icon in your Generator where you can check your previously generated passwords.

  • BUG FIXES. And, of course, we won’t release a new NordPass version without getting rid of as many bugs as possible.

NordPass 4.4

“Speed” was the main keyword at NordPass this week. So what to expect in this release?

  • Updated designs so you could find your passwords or any other items at the speed of light.

  • Tons of bug fixes and maintenance work so that your app would work faster than ever and would be as pretty on the inside as it is on the outside.

NordPass 4.3

Don’t worry if you missed the chance to get NordPass Premium for less. The Summer Kick-Off Sale is here! Use this offer to get access to all the amazing Premium features.

Also, we have a little something for our Business users. From now on, all members who are added or removed from groups will be notified by email.

NordPass 4.2.18

Hello, world! We’ve prepared a nice little juicy pack of updates – just for you. Please give a warm welcome to:

  • Double EXTENSION-upgrade: from now on, not only it speaks German fluently but also is available in Dark Mode. Ready to give some rest for those sore eyes?

  • A new ge-ne-ra-tion for stronger passwords! Check out the PASSWORD GENERATOR to enjoy shiny new looks and (finally!) PASS-PHRASES for nice-and-strong-memorable-passwords.

NordPass 4.1

We are working hard on bringing Dark Mode to the NordPass extension. In the meantime, we are also doing some good old maintenance work. So expect to see some design changes in the browser extension and forget the existence of annoying bugs.

NordPass 4.0

Today is the day! You know what we are talking about. You asked for it; we delivered it. And oh boy, how good it looks! You’ll believe it once you see it.

OK, we recommend sitting down for this one. Then open your NordPass app, update it to the newest version and enjoy the shiny new DARK MODE.

And if that doesn’t impress you, well, then we have more news. You can now use NordPass in German. Whether it’s your mother tongue or just want to polish your German skills, you can now change your language preference in Settings.

NordPass 3.31

This time we’ve got many design changes to make your life easier. So let’s get to it. Here’s what you’ll see in this release.

  • TOAST MESSAGES UPDATE. Some of the success messages, such as when you import items or update your app, were outdated, so we made them easier to understand.

  • MULTISELECT REWORK. We noticed that the sorting option was missing when multiple items were selected. We introduced this option and changed long-winded buttons to visually pleasing icons.

  • BROWSER EXTENSION UPDATE. You can now access Tools from the NordPass extension, including the Password Health and the Data Breach Scanner.

NordPass 3.30

Are you ready to switch off the lights? Because Dark Mode is coming very very soon. We are working hard to make sure everything looks perfect for the release. A few more things, and we are done. Keep your eyes peeled.

In other news, we fixed some annoying bugs we found in Groups and took care of other bugs.

iconless styling

NordPass 3.29

Sometimes what we do is either too difficult to explain or too difficult to see. Yes, you guessed it. This week we put all our effort into finding and getting rid of bugs. We hope we’ll have something more exciting for you next week.

NordPass 2.34

NordPass has gone through some serious spring cleaning with this release. Why do we say so? Here’s what we did:

  • B2B GROUPS BUG FIXES. It’s new, fresh, and now with fewer bugs.

  • APP BUG FIXES. We’ll never give up on perfecting NordPass.

  • EXTENSION DESIGN REWORK. So much better looking now! You have to see it to believe it.

And something exciting is coming up very soon. So stay tuned. 😉

NordPass 2.33

This time, we’ve got good news for Business users. Let us introduce GROUPS. Admins and Owners can now assign members to groups and share passwords with a number of people instantly. Think, your finance department sharing login details every accountant needs to access.

Anything else? Of course, we got rid of more nasty bugs.

NordPass 2.32

Happy April Fool’s! Stay vigilant, and don’t get tricked by any hackers. Keep your passwords safe with an updated NordPass app. Here’s what we’ve got this time:

  • CHANGES TO MASTER PASSWORD CREATION. Now it’s easier to understand what that mysterious Master Password is and how it is different from your Nord Account password. BUG FIXES as usual.

NordPass 2.31

It’s spring! Flowers are blooming, birds are chirping, and NordPass is releasing another update. In this release, you’ll find: KEYBOARD SHORTCUTS. You can now use CTRL + F to search your items and CTRL + L to lock your app instantly. BUG FIXES. No bugs allowed here.

keyboard shortcuts

NordPass 2.30

NordPass bug hunters strike again. Yes, you guessed it. We got rid of more pesky bugs so you could enjoy an even smoother experience with NordPass. That’s it for now!

NordPass 2.29

“Could NordPass be any better?” asks our team every single week. And the answer never changes. YES, it can!

But it’s not always about new features and crazy advancements. Sometimes it’s all about perfecting those nitty-gritty details. So this week, we say another goodbye to a bunch of bugs. Bye, we won’t miss you.

NordPass 2.28

Another week, another release of a better, faster, and more secure NordPass app. And for this we say a BIG thank you to our bug hunters (aka developers). You guys rock.

NordPass 2.27

If NordPass was a dog, what would he say to a flea?

  • Stop bugging me.

The good news NordPass doesn’t need to endure nasty bugs. Bye-bye, bugs. We don’t wanna see you no more.

NordPass 2.26

Ready, set, new release! What can you expect to see in the new and shiny NordPass 2.26?

EXTENSION REWORK. Updated, upgraded, and overall better-looking browser extension. But what did we actually do? Well, we just made it even more similar to your desktop app, meaning more functional and easier to use. Voila!

BUG FIXES. Can you tell we don’t like insects? No bugs are allowed in our app. Yuck.

NordPass 2.25

It’s a very special day today. We thought about it over and over again. We were constantly considering, overthinking, and having sleepless nights about it. We even visited a fortune teller to ask if you’ll like it, or not. Yet still, our developers were nervously (but carefully!) coding that code.

And here it comes. A sincere love letter. In PDF format. Containing your Recovery Code. Save it, delete it, save it again, print it – do whatever you want, but please, keep it safe. And don’t show to anyone else! It was created from the bottom of our hearts to express how much we LOVE YOU.

Take care!

And don’t forget to update the app to get those extra bug fixes.

NordPass 2.24

Once upon a time, in a faraway land, a password manager named NordPass lived. His goal was to become the best password manager that there ever was. And he did it one release at a time.

He proudly presents his latest achievements:

  • AUTOSAVE AND PASSWORD EDIT UPDATES. Now it will be easier to understand when NordPass is prompting to update an old password or when it is offering to save a new one automatically.

  • HELP SECTION ADDED TO SETTINGS. If you need help using NordPass, head to Settings to be directed to the Help Center.

  • COPY CHANGES. Salvador Dali might have said not to fear perfection as we’ll never reach it, but we’ll still give it a good go.

  • BUG FIXES. No need to call the pest control officer; we got it fixed.

NordPass 2.23

AbraCadabra boom! No, it’s not magic. It’s just your passwords and personal information filling in quicker and smoother than ever before. Bye-bye, annoying bugs who tried to stop you. What else can you expect in this release?

  • ONLINE/OFFLINE INDICATOR appears in the NordPass extension.

  • COPY CHANGES to make the app easier to navigate.

  • MORE BUG FIXES.

NordPass 2.22

New Year, new NordPass release. Here’s what you’ll see in the latest version:

  • EASIER LOG IN WITH NORD ACCOUNT. We tweaked the steps you take logging in to NordPass for a smoother experience.

  • BUG FIXES, because no one likes bugs.

  • RECOVERY CODE PDF. You will now be able to download your Recovery Code in PDF. Keep it somewhere safe. 😉

recovery code

NordPass 2.21

Yeah, Christmas will be different this year. But we’ve still got something to spread a little cheer.

In this release, you will see:

  • ICONLESS ITEMS STYLING. Your passwords that don’t have dedicated icons will light up in a variety of colors.

  • BUG FIXES. Well, it cannot be called a release without bug fixes, right?

iconless styling

NordPass 2.20

“You guys give up? Or are you thirsty for more?” – Kevin, Home Alone, 1990

That’s the NordPass spirit, Kevin! We’ve got more:

  • Design changes. Yes, the sky’s the limit for our designers, sorry.

  • Password Generator update. Did we mention that it’s important to have long and unique passwords?

  • Browser extension update. Easier to understand, prettier to look at.

desktop instagram

NordPass 2.19

I don’t want a lot for Christmas
There is just one thing I need
I don’t care about the presents
Underneath the Christmas tree

Don’t want NordPass for my own
More than you could ever know
Making this wish come true
Giving a bug-free NordPass for you

P.S. Thanks Mariah Carey for inspiration.

NordPass 2.18

NordPass has turned 1 year old this week. Just on time for Thanksgiving, can you believe it? And we can honestly say this year we are the most grateful for YOU, our dear NordPass user. You, who believed in us and drove us to release one update after another.

So here’s one more. Full of even more design edits, bug fixes, and love:

  • LOGINS TURN TO PASSWORDS. Now all across the app, you’ll see the term “Password” instead of “Login” because it’s just easier to understand.

  • CHOOSE FOLDER WHEN AUTOSAVING to organize your passwords there and then.

  • RENEWED IMPORT. Importing passwords in bulk is now easier than ever.

  • MINOR DESIGN CHANGES because, let’s be honest, who doesn’t like a good-looking app.

  • NORD ACCOUNT DEEPLINK FIXES. No more accidental logouts when you use NordVPN and change your IP.

NordPass 2.17

Xmas is in less than 35 days. You’re welcome.

In other news, our designers, developers, and copywriters are presenting you with another brand new update. This time we fixed the annoying-forever-loading spinner, made minor changes to the way you see your items’ details, and updated the copy to make your app even more easier to navigate. Until next time 😉

NordPass 2.16

We know you have better things to do (like keep up with the news on the current presidential election. Yikes, so intense!). So we thought, ‘who are we to bombard you with more messages?’. Poof! Your login and logout messages are gone.

To make your day a little bit brighter, we also made some improvements to your items layout. And we can describe it with just one word – SLEEK. You’ll believe it when you see it 😉

And NordPass update wouldn’t be an update without bug fixes. We did the dirty work and crushed them once again.

NordPass 2.15

Trick or treat? Treat, always. We might be a few days late to any online Halloween party, but, to make up for it, we are bringing new treats to your desktop app:

  • ADD ITEM IN FOLDER. You can now add items straight from your folders. Easy, breazy, and all your items are organized.

  • ITEM DETAILS FIXES. “There is no limit to perfection!” screams the NordPass design team. Your items will now look more beautiful than ever.

  • OTHER LITTLE BUG FIXES. Little bugs and spiders might fit the Halloween theme, but they don’t look good in your NordPass app. We got rid of them to make your experience smoother and safer.

NordPass 2.14

Providing high-quality password-managing experience, routine maintenance and working under-the-hood is just as essential as releasing a new shiny feature. So nothing grand this time — just the usual bug-fixing and design-improving business. We’re packing and sending best wishes along with app improvements your way!

NordPass 2.13

  • BUG FIXES. Sometimes you couldn’t scroll down to the end of your passwords list. You simply couldn’t. The good news is that we did some magic tricks, so now you can.

  • BUG FIXES. We’ve also changed the font style, the button style, and the spacing style in the context menu of your passwords list (not exactly a bug, but we wanted to keep the release notes in style).

  • BUG FIXES for everyone.

  • BUG FIXES. Sometimes you couldn’t scroll down to the end of your passwords list. You simply couldn’t. The good news is that we did some magic tricks, so now you can.

NordPass 2.12

When life gives you Monday, we release the app update. Let’s see what we’ve got:

  • IN-APP NOTIFICATIONS sometimes were over-competitive and tried to overlap each other. Someone smart once said that the best way to kill competition is to partner it. So after some inspiring conversations about team spirit, the attitude was fixed – all notifications now act super friendly.

  • DESIGN BUG FIXES. Yes, sometimes bugs may look stylish. Even pretty. They are still bugs – and they are out now.

  • PASSWORD HEALTH IMPROVEMENTS. The development department was very excited about changing something with the algorithm. All I know is that the health of your passwords will be calculated even more accurately. I only write release notes – please don’t judge me. And have a nice day!

NordPass 2.11

Hey there! How are you? Ready for the update? Let’s go:

  • BREACH REPORT. This one feels like a lottery. By clicking a ‘Scan’ button, you can find out if any of your accounts were ever caught in data breaches. However, it probably is the first lottery where it’s better not to ‘win’ anything.

  • DESIGN IMPROVEMENTS. They see you scrollin’, they hatin’, – because scrolling with that new scroll bar has never felt so good. Just give it a go.

NordPass 2.1

Another week – another update. Let’s roll!

  • DESIGN IMPROVEMENTS. Yes, we did it again. We’ve played with UI, got lost in perfecting the details. Oh, baby baby. Yes, the item lists now look neat, the font is sent from above. It all looks perfect now!

  • PERFORMANCE IMPROVEMENTS. Let’s be honest – after entering your Master Password to unlock the vault, the app window was getting overexcited and moved all over the place. Not that it was a bad thing – but those moves really weren’t good. So, we’ve sent the app to some dancing classes. The result – the app learned some solid, stylish but still moves – more like JLo style.

NordPass 2.9

Faster than light.
Supersonic.
Fleet-footed.
Pronto.
Winged.

We’ve spent hours trying to find the right word to describe the improved speed of opening your passwords (and other items) in the vault, but none of them was good enough. They say that action speaks a thousand words, so enjoy viewing your items at full speed.

NordPass 2.8

Passwords are more human-natured than you could possibly think. They need a safe and cozy place to stay. Most of them eat well (cheat days included 😉 ) and constantly work out to become faster and stronger. However, sometimes they also may feel weak and unwell, so regular health check-ups are crucial. Luckily, we’ve found an easy way to maintain their well-being – set up a password health checker in the app. Take a chance to make your precious passwords happier (and accounts safer) without leaving the house.

Stay safe, everyone!

NordPass 2.7

The idea of throwing this party came out of thin air. Why not, we thought – work hard, party harder, right?

So we’ve ordered lots of food and drinks (everyone was curious seeing what new employees look like when they’re drunk), brought in a magical photo booth (making selfies was too mainstream), and prized trivia (to avoid awkward silences), and live music by our beloved DJ “Vibe Manager”.

Time flew, the party’s got in full swing (no one seemed to be running out of things to talk about – phew). Even NordVPN and NordLocker stopped by. After a not-work-related heated discussion about data privacy and online security, they promised to join our “Tools” department. Like, forever.

Autofill department surprised everyone with funky moves – those icons felt like dancin’ till the break of dawn. It was fun until the ‘fun’ went out of control – and out of login fields. Luckily, after taking a chill pill, everything’s got back in order.

By the way, some unwanted URL spaces were trying to crash both the party and the app. That’s kind of rude, so we’ve asked them to leave.

We’ve finished with a small team-building session with cleaning the office – it’s now nice and clean – and so is the app (we hope so).

That’s it – peace out!

NordPass 2.6

Our engineers are all about perfection. They literally were calculating coordinates for pixel-perfect autofill icons placement. However, some “wind of change” has happened, and those icons ended up finding their home OUTSIDE the login fields. Sorry for that – this unforgivable mistake was fixed.

Also, some sneaky, crawly, totally gross bugs were caught and removed. The app is much better without them – enjoy!

NordPass 2.5

This release contains some behind-the-scenes magic, usual tinkering-under-the-hood and minor design tweaks. By hitting the “Update” button, you will get one step closer to top-notch password-managing experience. Stay well!

NordPass 2.4

They say – small changes make a big difference. Behold – the update with a bunch of app upgrades is here. Let’s see what we’ve got here:

  • VISUAL IMPROVEMENTS. Mirror mirror on the wall, who is prettiest of them all? Well, our designer’s brush made some magic tweaks, so the answer is clear now – it’s those tiny cute little app icons. Lookin’ good!

  • APP LOADING FASTER. Need for speed? You’re welcome! Fasten your seatbelt and put the pedal to the metal – the project “Make the app faster” was completed successfully.

  • BUG FIXES. Dear sneaky bugs, thanks for visiting, farewell, let’s never meet again.

About Version 2 Limited
Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

About NordPass
NordPass is developed by Nord Security, a company leading the global market of cybersecurity products.

The web has become a chaotic space where safety and trust have been compromised by cybercrime and data protection issues. Therefore, our team has a global mission to shape a more trusted and peaceful online future for people everywhere.