Storing encrypted passwords in a SQL database is crucial for maintaining the security of sensitive user information. Here are the steps to securely store encrypted passwords:

1. Hashing Algorithms: Use strong hashing algorithms like bcrypt or SHA-256 to hash passwords before storing them in the database. Hashing ensures that even the database administrator cannot retrieve the original password.
2. Salt: Always use a unique salt for each password before hashing. Salting prevents attackers from using precomputed rainbow tables to crack passwords.
3. Secure Connection: Ensure that your application connects to the database using a secure connection (HTTPS) to protect the transmission of sensitive data.
4. Access Control: Implement strict access control measures to limit who can view or modify the password hashes in the database.
5. Regular Updates: Stay updated with the latest security patches and practices to prevent any vulnerabilities that could compromise password security.

By following these best practices, you can enhance the security of your SQL database and protect user passwords from unauthorized access.