When it comes to password security, it seems that some people just aren’t getting the message. According to a recent report from NordPass, a leading password-management software company, several easily guessed passwords continue to dominate the global landscape. In fact, “password,” “123456,” and “123456789” have consistently topped the list of the most common password choices worldwide over the past five years.
Despite the well-known vulnerability of such passwords, an astonishing 4.9 million individuals still opted for the dangerously simplistic “password” as their protective measure. Even more alarming is the fact that out of this figure, a staggering 44,484 users reside in the United States alone. Surprisingly, “password” took second place among American users, as a staggering 83,429 individuals favored the equally weak option of “123456.”
What’s even more concerning is that a whopping 70% of the passwords on the list could be cracked in under a second. This revelation paints a bleak picture of the disregard that online users have for their own cybersecurity.
Tomas Smalakys, the Chief Technology Officer of NordPass, expressed his surprise at these findings: “People continue to use ‘123456’ as their password, despite repeated warnings from cybersecurity experts. It’s interesting to note that this password has ranked as the most common choice among internet users four out of five times in a five-year period. Only last year did ‘password,’ which offers no better security, claim the title of the world’s most common password.”
In order to compile this list, NordPass analyzed a massive 4.3TB database obtained from various publicly available sources, including entries from the dark web. Additionally, they also examined a 6.6TB database consisting of stolen passwords sourced from malware logs. The research was carried out in collaboration with independent experts who specialize in investigating cybersecurity incidents.
These shocking statistics serve as a wakeup call for internet users worldwide. It is crucial to prioritize password security and avoid falling into the trap of using easily guessed passwords. With cyber threats becoming increasingly sophisticated, protecting our personal information has never been more important.
The Danger of Weak Passwords
When it comes to choosing passwords, many people are still making some very common and easily avoidable mistakes. A recent study conducted by NordPass revealed the alarming prevalence of weak passwords and the potential risks they pose.
Simple and Repeating Patterns
One of the most striking findings of the study is that a significant number of passwords on the list contained simple and easily guessable patterns. This includes numerical sequences and keyboard patterns. In fact, an astonishing 31% of passwords followed these patterns, making them incredibly vulnerable to hacking attempts.
Names, Words, and Phrases to Avoid
Another issue is the use of commonly known names, simple words, and phrases as passwords. Words like “pokemon,” “computer,” and “baseball” are shockingly common. Even the famous phrase “iloveyou” is frequently used as a password, despite its vulnerability. The researchers even discovered that “superman” was used over 13,000 times, and could be cracked in less than a second.
The Threat of Malware
Passwords stored on web browsers or computers are also at risk from malware attacks. Malware can infiltrate someone’s computer and lead to significant security breaches. Once infected, personal information, including passwords and other credentials saved on the browser, can be easily stolen. Stealer malware attacks are particularly dangerous and can jeopardize people’s safety online.
It is crucial for individuals to be cautious about their password storage methods and ensure their password strength to protect themselves from these malicious threats.
Password Practices for Important Information
Fortunately, it seems that people are generally more careful about their passwords when it comes to important information. The study found that the weakest passwords tend to be used for streaming accounts, while stronger passwords are commonly employed for financial accounts. This is a positive development, as it indicates that individuals recognize the importance of securing sensitive and valuable information.
It is essential for everyone to prioritize password security and make better choices when creating passwords. By avoiding common patterns and predictable choices, individuals can significantly enhance their online safety.
