How should passwords be stored in a database?

I have seen in many instances where website customers passwords are stored in databases like Oracle. What is a safer way to store passwords in databases? If a hacker breaks in to the databases he has access to all the passwords.

Also people who use php or asp or perl scripts have passwords in their scripts for the database connections. If a hacker breaks in and sees these scripts he can easily find that login and password. Received on Sat Sep 01 2001 - 23:13:34 CDT