**The Persistent Problem of Weak Passwords: Americans Still Falling Short on Security**

In a disturbing revelation that highlights the ongoing struggle with password security, a recent survey conducted by PasswordManager.com has shed light on the continued reliance of American users on weak and predictable passwords.

The report, which polled 1500 adults nationwide, found that a staggering 84% of respondents reuse passwords across multiple accounts. This disturbing trend is not only a security risk but also a breach of good digital hygiene practices.

But that's not all - nearly two-thirds (65%) of those surveyed rely on predictable patterns when creating their passwords. These patterns include pet names, birthdays, simple number strings, and everyday words like "baseball" or "password". The survey results are particularly concerning given the numerous security breaches and warnings that have been issued over the years.

So, what's behind this persistent problem? According to the survey, many respondents cited fear of forgetting their passwords as a major reason for not changing them. Others found updates too inconvenient or simply didn't see the need to change their passwords in the first place.

The disconnect between security awareness and real-world behavior is also striking. While 43% of respondents have already been notified that one of their accounts was involved in a hack or scam, only 23% use password managers to protect themselves from future breaches.

Two-factor authentication (2FA) is used more widely, but even here there's room for improvement. Nearly half (47%) of users only enable 2FA when forced to do so by their account providers - indicating a lack of proactive approach to security.

The survey also highlights growing awareness of passkeys as an alternative to traditional passwords. However, respondents are calling for clearer guidance on how to transition away from passwords entirely.

As the digital landscape continues to evolve and threats become more sophisticated, it's clear that Americans need to take their password security seriously. The good news is that there are tools available - such as password managers and 2FA - that can help bridge this gap. But until we see a fundamental shift in behavior, users will remain vulnerable to the risks associated with weak passwords.

As we look to the future of digital security, it's essential that we address these issues head-on and prioritize education, awareness, and best practices for creating and managing secure passwords.