How Secure Is Your Password? Probably Not Very
Be honest: have you ever resorted to using "123456" or "password" as your go-to password? Managing many online accounts can make it easy to use simple passwords.
However, this convenience has risks. A recent report from NordPass shows that many of us still risk our digital security. We do this by using weak passwords.
2024’s Most Popular-and Weakest-Passwords
NordPass, working with the cybersecurity company NordStellar, has created a list of the 200 most used passwords. This analysis uses a huge 2.5TB database of global password data. This includes leaks from the dark web. It shows a surprising truth: we are not learning from our past mistakes.
The Usual Suspects
For the sixth year running, “123456” tops the list as the most-used password, with over 3 million users still relying on it. Close runners-up include variations like “123456789” and “12345678,” which offer little more complexity. Unsurprisingly, “password” also maintains its place among the top offenders, used by nearly 700,000 people.
Here’s the hall of shame for 2024:
1. 123456
2. 123456789
3. 12345678
4. password
5. qwerty123
6. qwerty1
7. 111111
8. 12345
9. secret
10. 123123
Corporate Credentials Aren’t Any Better
You would think the business world would care more about cybersecurity. However, many professional accounts still use weak passwords. Shockingly, “123456” was used in over 1.2 million corporate instances, putting sensitive data at significant risk.
Why Weak Passwords Are a Disaster Waiting to Happen
Using these easily guessable passwords is akin to leaving your home unlocked in a high-crime area. Hackers can crack these combinations in under a second, leading to stolen accounts, identity theft, and other cyber threats.
Break the Cycle: How to Secure Your Accounts
Here are simple steps to upgrade your digital defenses:
1. Think Lengthy: Use passwords with at least 20 characters.
2. Add Variety: Mix uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
3. Stay Unique: Don’t reuse passwords across different accounts.
4. Keep It Fresh: Regularly review and update your passwords.
5. Use a Password Manager: These tools generate and store complex, unique passwords so you don’t have to.
Choosing the Right Password Manager
Look for features like:
● End-to-end encryption.
● Compatibility across devices and browsers.
● Secure, auto-generated passwords for every account.
● Autofill for apps and websites.
● Alerts for compromised credentials.
● Two-factor authentication support.
One standout option is 1Password, a trusted service with no reported security breaches. It offers robust features, including secure storage, browser integration, and family plans. Pricing starts at $2.99/month (billed annually) or $60/year for families of up to five members.
Embrace the Future with Passkeys
Passkeys are quickly gaining traction as a superior alternative to traditional passwords. Using biometrics like facial recognition, fingerprint scanning, or physical security keys, passkeys provide enhanced security and eliminate the need for memorizing passwords altogether.
Bottom Line
It’s time to take our password security seriously. With so much of our personal and professional information online, strengthening our defenses is a must. By adopting straightforward habits—such as crafting longer, more intricate passwords and leveraging password managers—we can significantly reduce our vulnerability to cyberattacks.
Let’s make 2025 the year we focus on better digital security. It’s time to leave behind old, unsafe practices.
Sources:
https://cyberguy.com/security/10-popular-worst-passwords-2024/
Disclosures:
This information is an overview and should not be considered as specific guidance or recommendations for any individual or business.
This material is provided as a courtesy and for educational purposes only.
These are the views of the author, not the named Representative or Advisory Services Network, LLC, and should not be construed as investment advice. Neither the named Representative nor Advisory Services Network, LLC gives tax or legal advice. All information is believed to be from reliable sources; however, we make no representation as to its completeness or accuracy. Please consult your Financial Advisor for further information.
