Answer:
It is never a good idea to share user IDs and passwords. If the access provided by an ID/password combination is to confidential information or to the ability to add to or edit existing confidential information, there are reasons that IDs and passwords are issued on a restricted, non-shared basis. In particular, proper use of ID/password combinations by only the individuals to whom they are assigned can help control levels of access on a need to know basis. It can also provide accountability when errors are made or data is compromised. Records of who accessed a system can help determine who, when and where mistakes were made.
User IDs and passwords can also help control access to proprietary information to which access is sold. For example, access to an archive copy of copyrighted webinar recordings can be sold on a subscription or other basis; unauthorized sharing of the ID/password combination would be a form of theft.
First published on BankersOnline.com 10/11/10
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