Strengthen online security by avoiding the top 200 weak passwords, as outlined in the latest NordPass report.
At a Glance
- The most common password in 2024 is 123456.
- 78% of common passwords can be hacked in less than a second.
- The NordPass list is based on a 2.5TB dataset from various sources.
- Password managers and passkeys are recommended for enhanced security.
The Threat of Weak Passwords
The NordPass annual report lists 123456 as the most commonly used password, a spot it has held for five of the past six years. Alarmingly, many passwords remain unchanged, posing significant security risks. In 2024, 78% of the world’s common passwords can be hacked almost instantaneously. Cybercriminals exploit these weak spots to breach accounts with ease.
NordPass, collaborating with NordStellar, evaluated a vast 2.5TB password database from online data leaks and malware breaches. This effort highlights how weak passwords are a persistent threat, both for individuals and corporations. Their analysis also presents the alarming similarity in the passwords used across personal and corporate accounts.
Popular Yet Risky Passwords
Simple passwords like 123456789, qwerty123, 111111, and password remain favorites. These can be cracked in a matter of seconds, making users vulnerable to cyber-attacks. The report also identifies unique passwords like chocolate, naruto, and monkey, which are surprisingly popular and equally insecure.
“78% of the world’s most common passwords can be cracked in less than a second, which yet again reminds us to avoid popular words or keyword combinations in passwords,” – according to NordPass.
The laziness or ignorance involved in choosing passwords hasn’t evolved over time, as reflected by similar trends observed in recent years. NordPass also notes, “Despite many organizations’ efforts to spread awareness, the problem is still as prevalent as ever.”
Enhancing Password Security
Implementing complex passwords and multi-factor authentication offers a safeguard against unauthorized access. NordPass advocates for the adoption of password managers that generate and store complex passwords effortlessly. Passkeys are emerging as a secure alternative, utilizing cryptographic keys rather than traditional passwords.
Major companies such as Google, Amazon, and Apple have already adopted passkeys for secure access control, marking a significant shift in online security protocols. Strengthening one’s online defenses with robust, unpredictable passwords or passkeys can significantly decrease the likelihood of data breaches.
