Change Your Password Now If It’s On This List
You've been warned: if you use one of the 20 weakest passwords on this list, change it now to avoid falling victim to hacking consequences.
What if your password is so weak that it can be cracked in less time than it takes me to type the next word? Yes, it's possible. Cybersecurity experts have compiled a list of the most commonly used and therefore weakest passwords, which were created by cybercriminals using infostealer malware logs.
Even with the global disruption of crime-industry leaders such as the Lumma Stealer network, your biggest enemy often isn't the shady hacker after your credentials, it's you yourself. Using easy-to-use and familiar passwords can lead to your downfall, as others will follow suit if they see that you're vulnerable.
A recent report by Huntress Security revealed the 20 most commonly used and weakest passwords you could deploy. While it's tempting to stick to passwords we've used for years, it's essential to remember that this behavior can have severe consequences. If your password is on this list, change it now, no ifs or buts.
The Password List You Don’t Want To Be On
Here is the list of 20 weakest passwords you should avoid:
- dragon
- monkey
- iloveyou
- 123456
- password
- qwerty
- letmein
- abc123
- 111111
- 12345678
- p@ssw0rd
- dragonfly
- monkeybusiness
- ilovemonkey
- abcde
- 12345
- password1
- qwertyuiop
- letmego
- 1234567
- dragonflyer
Better still, switch to using passkeys instead, as they are way more secure and even easier to use. Using a password manager can also enable you to make strong, random, and unique choices.
Take Care Of Your PIN Codes As Well As Passwords
It's not just passwords that need attention; what about your four-digit PIN code? Yes, the code that underpins your smartphone lock biometrics is still required on occasion, such as when fingerprint or face recognition doesn't work after an operating system update or phone reset.
A recent analysis of nearly 30 million PIN codes revealed that ten percent of the codes are identical, while another 10% can be cracked within a few seconds using AI attack tools. If your PIN code is on one of these lists, change it now to avoid potential smartphone robbers and family snoopers.
Research has found that PINs with the same digits are the worst, followed by consecutive numbers, pairs, and patterns that resemble dates. If you use a date-based PIN, you're essentially handing over your personal information to potential hackers.
I could likely unlock 90% of family members' smartphones if I knew their dates of birth. It's essential to change your PIN code regularly and use strong, unique combinations to keep yourself safe.