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The 25 Most Common Passwords of 2024: Are You Using Any of These?
In an era where cybersecurity is constantly under threat, many users still opt for easily guessable passwords. A recent analysis by NordPass of a vast 2.5TB database containing cybersecurity incidents reveals some alarming trends about how individuals secure their online accounts. Here’s a detailed look at the top 25 most commonly used passwords, and how they stack up against the standards of online security.
1. 123456 – 3.0M Uses
Unsurprisingly, “123456” tops the list, with approximately 3 million users relying on this simple sequence. Despite its popularity, it takes less than a second for a hacker to crack.
2. 123456789 – 1.6M Uses
This variation, while longer, remains as weak as the first. With 1.6 million users, it is evident that many still prioritize convenience over security.
3. 12345678 – 885K Uses
Another popular choice, “12345678”, rounds out the top three. Guarding against cyber threats should include steering clear of these straightforward numbers.
4. password – 692K Uses
In a surprising turn, the most intuitive password—literally “password”—is extensively used. With over 692,000 instances, it remains a notorious example of poor cybersecurity practices.
5. qwerty123 – 643K Uses
Leveraging a common keyboard pattern, “qwerty123” finds its way into 643,000 user accounts. While it’s slightly more complex, it’s still an easily guessable option.
6. qwerty1 – 584K Uses
Another take on the keyboard layout, “qwerty1,” follows closely behind with 584,000 registrations. Keyboard patterns are not recommended for enhanced security.
7. 111111 – 460K Uses
The numeric repetition “111111” has found its way into the accounts of nearly 460,000 people. This repetitive nature poses a serious vulnerability.
8. 12345 – 396K Uses
Simple and straightforward, “12345” remains a victim of its own lack of complexity, with approximately 396,000 users relying on it.
9. secret – 364K Uses
While it might seem unintuitive, “secret” is a widely used password, employed by over 364,000 individuals, an ironic twist given that it’s commonly considered a secure term.
10. 123123 – 352K Uses
“123123,” a repeating pattern, holds about 352,000 entries in databases. Users are urged to rethink their reliance on such easily cracked sequences.
11. 1234567890 – 324K Uses
Extended digit strings like “1234567890” also rank high, falling just below 324,000 uses, reinforcing the need for stronger combinations.
12. 1234567 – 308K Uses
With about 308,000 uses, “1234567” is another example of a weak password that many continue to favor for its simplicity.
13. 000000 – 250K Uses
The password “000000” seems to be another favorite among users, with around 250,000 accounts relying on it, exposing them to significant risk.
14. qwerty – 245K Uses
Once again focusing on keyboard arrangements, “qwerty” comes in with 245,000 instances, showcasing a consistent trend of weak password selections.
15. abc123 – 217K Uses
Combining letters and numbers with “abc123,” this option claims about 217,000 users, but it’s still far from secure.
16. password1 – 212K Uses
With 212,000 utilizations, “password1” offers a slight twist yet remains a weak choice by cybersecurity standards.
17. iloveyou – 198K Uses
The romantic “iloveyou” finds its way into 198,000 accounts. It’s charming but also vulnerable to hacks.
18. 11111111 – 195K Uses
Repetition is key here, as “11111111” logs in at 195,000 users. A reminder that simplicity equates to vulnerability.
19. dragon – 145K Uses
Perhaps surprising, “dragon” is the choice of 145,000 users. Mythical and imaginative, it remains a poor security choice.
20. monkey – 139K Uses
“Monkey,” although amusing, is the selected password for 139,000 people. It’s time to reconsider such whimsical choices.
21. 123123123 – 119K Uses
Rounding out the list, “123123123” has about 119,000 users. Clearly, there’s a trend of favoring convenience over security.
22. 123321 – 106K Uses
Interestingly, the palindrome “123321” is used by 106,000 accounts, reminding us of another pattern that is easy to crack.
23. qwertyuiop – 101K Uses
Another keyboard-based password, “qwertyuiop” is used by 101,000 users, embodying the trend of vulnerable password choices.
24. 00000000 – 99K Uses
An extension of the earlier “000000,” this password is employed by around 99,000 users, reinforcing the trend of weak passwords.
25. Password – 96K Uses
Variations of “password,” including this capitalized version, still manage to remain on the list with about 96,000 users.
Conclusion
The data derived from NordPass serves as a stark reminder: many users are still opting for passwords that are far too simplistic. The ease of cracking these passwords usually allows hackers to gain unauthorized access in mere seconds. For better security online, it’s crucial to create complex passwords that include a mix of upper and lower-case letters, numbers, and special characters. As cyber threats continue to evolve, so too should our strategies for safeguarding personal information.