Passwords are everywhere, from social media accounts to online banking. To avoid forgetting, many people reuse the same password across multiple platforms or choose simple ones. Unfortunately, these common passwords are highly vulnerable to hacking. NordPass, a popular password management company, has revealed a list of the most commonly used and weakest passwords globally. Topping the list is the ever-popular “123456”.
In addition to personal passwords, NordPass also highlighted the most insecure passwords used in the corporate world.
Top 10 Most Commonly Used Passwords Worldwide
- 123456
- 123456789
- 12345678
- password
- qwerty123
- qwerty1
- 111111
- 12345
- secret
- 123123
These passwords are frequently used on smartphones, laptops, and desktops, making them easy targets for hackers.
Top 10 Weak Corporate Passwords
- 123456
- 123456789
- 12345678
- secret
- password
- qwerty123
- qwerty1
- 111111
- 123123
- 1234567890
This list shows the alarming similarity between personal and corporate password habits.
Why These Passwords Are Risky
Both lists highlight a common issue—users tend to choose simple and predictable passwords for convenience. Such passwords can be easily guessed or cracked by hackers using brute force or dictionary attacks. This poses significant risks to personal data and sensitive corporate information alike.
Tips to Create Strong and Secure Passwords
To reduce the risk of cyberattacks, follow these simple yet effective guidelines:
- Use Passkeys on Smartphones: Where supported, passkeys provide a secure alternative to traditional passwords.
- Mix Characters: Create passwords with a combination of letters (uppercase and lowercase), numbers, and special characters.
- Example: Instead of password123, use P@ssW0rd!23.
- Change Sensitive Passwords Regularly: Rotate passwords for financial accounts, corporate systems, and other sensitive platforms every few months.
- Use a Password Manager: Tools like NordPass or LastPass can generate and securely store complex passwords for you.
The Takeaway
With cyber threats on the rise, using strong, unique passwords is no longer optional—it’s essential. Avoid using the passwords listed above and invest a little extra effort in creating secure alternatives. A small step towards smarter password practices can go a long way in protecting your digital identity.
