A new analysis by NordPass has found that Generation Z individuals are less proficient in creating secure passwords compared to older generations. The study, which examined password habits across multiple age groups, revealed that simple sequences like ‘12345’ are among the most frequently used by young users. Contrary to expectations, the data shows that ‘123456’ remains the most commonly used password globally, with variations like ‘1234567’ and even ‘123456789’ being adopted by some users seeking a minor level of complexity. However, these passwords are still considered extremely weak and easily crackable by automated systems.
Experts from Security.org have emphasized that passwords such as ‘123456’ would be among the first attempts in a brute-force attack, making them extremely vulnerable to breaches. The Register notes that while there are some differences in password choices between Gen Z and older generations, the fundamental weakness of these common passwords remains unchanged. For instance, ‘skibidi’ – a slang term that has gained popularity among younger demographics – was found to be more prevalent among Zoomers than previous generations, but it still doesn’t offer much resistance against cyber threats. The study also highlights the need for education on password hygiene, particularly among younger users who may not fully understand the risks of using predictable or simple passcodes.
Despite some users attempting to enhance security by adding extra digits to the sequence, these efforts are largely insufficient. Cybersecurity professionals warn that attackers can easily bypass such passwords through credential stuffing or dictionary attacks. The findings serve as a reminder that even with increased awareness, the majority of users still struggle with the fundamentals of password security. As digital threats continue to evolve, the importance of adopting stronger authentication methods such as multi-factor authentication (MFA) and password managers becomes increasingly critical to protect against potential breaches.