Trusting others with access to your valuable digital assets can be a challenging endeavor. Whether you’re hiring help or collaborating with external parties, it’s crucial to follow a few simple rules to ensure peace of mind. In this article, we’ll explore the best practices for handing over access to your domain, DNS, hosting, website admin, and third-party accounts, while maintaining security and control.
Hiring Help
Teach Them the Basics When bringing in external individuals to handle your digital assets, it’s important to provide them with a solid understanding of the platforms, tools, and processes involved. By familiarizing them with the basics, you can minimize the risk of accidental misuse or security breaches. Offer training or documentation to ensure they have the necessary knowledge to handle their assigned tasks effectively.
Enforce Strong Password Practices
A strong password policy is a fundamental aspect of maintaining the security of your digital assets. Emphasize the importance of generating unique and complex passwords for each account. Avoid using the same password across multiple platforms, as a compromise in one account could lead to unauthorized access to others. Encourage the use of a password manager to securely store passwords, eliminating the need for text documents, spreadsheets, or worst yet – sticky notes.
Temporary Access for Third Parties
When granting temporary access to marketing firms, SEO companies, or web developers, it’s crucial to apply similar security measures as you would with your employees. Grant access on a need-to-know basis, ensuring individuals only have the privileges necessary to fulfill their specific roles. For example, if someone is responsible for content modifications, there’s no need to provide them with administrator-level access. By limiting their access, you retain control and reduce the risk of unauthorized changes.
Utilize Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) and Password Updates for One-Time Access
Maintain control and your master administrative account access secure at all times. In cases where a third party requires one-time access for specific tasks, such as adding a DNS record, provide the necessary password and participate in the 2FA authentication process. Once the task is completed, promptly change the password to prevent any future unauthorized access. This approach ensures temporary access is tightly controlled and minimizes potential security risks.
Revoking Access to Untrusted Individuals
If you find yourself in a situation where you no longer trust an individual with access to your digital assets, take immediate action to mitigate potential damage. Begin by changing all passwords associated with the accounts they had access to. Consider removing any accounts or permissions that were created specifically for that individual. It’s advisable to back up your website and review administrator settings, such as email addresses and 2FA methods, to ensure they remain under your control.
Conclusion
When it comes to handing over access to your domain, DNS, hosting, website admin, and third-party accounts, following these best practices is not about being paranoid; it’s simply exercising common sense. By implementing these security measures, you can safeguard your digital assets, protect your business from potential disruptions, and maintain control over your online presence. Remember, prevention and proactive measures are the keys to ensuring a secure digital environment.
