Common Passwords That Everyone Uses
The Top Ten Most Common Passwords
123456password1234567891234567812345123123qwertyabc123111111letmein
According to a 2023 study by NordPass, these passwords are still among the most frequently used despite being easily guessable.
A staggering 23 million people reportedly use 123456 alone.
Think of it this way: using these passwords is like leaving the door wide open at night.
The Surprising Simplicity of ‘123456’
The password 123456 has maintained its status as the most popular choice for years.
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Reasons for Popularity:
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Simplicity: Easy to remember and type.
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Commonly suggested: Many people start with simple numeric sequences.
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Statistics: Almost 10% of users reportedly opt for
123456. This reveals a significant vulnerability in cybersecurity practices.
Table of Common Passwords and Their User Count
| Password | Estimated Users |
|---|---|
| 123456 | 23 million |
| password | 15 million |
| 123456789 | 11 million |
| 12345678 | 8 million |
| 12345 | 7 million |
Why ‘Password’ Remains Popular
Contrary to what one might expect, password is often used.
It seems that many users prefer basic, straightforward options.
- Psychological Comfort: People trust simple words over complex combinations.
- Familiarity: It’s one of the first passwords people learn.
The trend shows an alarming persistence; password is used by millions, highlighting the need for better education on password security.
The Dangers of Weak Passwords
The Risks of Using Common Passwords
Using common passwords poses enormous risks:
- Easy for Hackers: Such passwords are prone to brute-force attacks.
- High Profile Breaches: According to ESET, over 70% of data breaches involved weak passwords.
How Easily Can Your Password Be Cracked?
Emerging technologies make cracking passwords alarmingly easy:
- Brute Force Attacks: These can guess passwords in seconds.
- Common Password Lists: Hackers have databases of the most used passwords.
A password like abc123 can be cracked in less than half a second, making it critical to avoid simplistic passwords.
Tips for Choosing a Strong Password
Characteristics of a Strong Password
- Length: Aim for at least 12 characters.
- Complexity: Use a mix of uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols.
- Unpredictability: Avoid easily guessable information such as birthdays or names.
Tools to Help Create Secure Passwords
- Password Generators: Use tools such as those offered by NordPass to create strong passwords.
- Strength Checkers: Websites can assess the strength of your password.
You can find more about signing up for NordPass to ensure your security here.
The Consequences of Poor Password Management
Real-life Examples of Password Breaches
- Equifax Data Breach: In 2017, personal information from 147 million users was compromised due to weak passwords.
- Yahoo Breach: Over 3 billion accounts were affected, primarily due to poor password security.
Each case highlights the critical importance of secure passwords.
The Importance of Regular Password Changes
Updating passwords regularly reduces the risk of breaches.
Experts recommend changing your passwords every three to six months.
- Stats: According to the FBI, 80% of data breaches can be prevented by simple password changes.
Utilize tools such as NordPass for reminders and assistance in regular updates.
Password Managers to Consider
Why Use a Password Manager?
- Convenience: Manage multiple passwords securely.
- Generation: Create strong, unique passwords automatically.
Recommended Password Managers Like NordPass
- NordPass: Known for its strong security features and user-friendliness.
- LastPass: Offers great features, though the free version has limits.
- 1Password: Excellent for families with its sharing options.
For securing your online identities with a trusted password manager, NordPass is highly recommended.
Remember: Your online security is paramount. Don’t make it easy for hackers; employ strong, unique passwords and consider investing in a password manager for peace of mind.
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