A new analysis by NordPass has revealed that Generation Z users are lagging behind older demographics in terms of password security. The study found that young internet users are more likely to use simple sequences like ‘12345’ and ‘123456’ as their passwords, which are far more vulnerable to cyberattacks than more complex combinations. Similar trends were observed across other age groups, although the proportion of users employing these weak passwords was slightly higher among younger demographics. The report also noted that variations of ‘123456’ remain the most commonly used password, with the exact string holding the title for the sixth consecutive year. This persistent use of weak passwords highlights a longstanding issue in digital security practices, despite increased awareness of online threats. Security experts warn that such passwords can be easily cracked by automated systems, making them a prime target for cybercriminals. The findings suggest that many users still prioritize convenience over security when creating passwords, a tendency that could have serious consequences for their digital safety.
According to Security.org’s password security checker, the use of these weak passwords poses a significant risk to online accounts. The report indicates that attackers can quickly compromise accounts using these common passwords, often without the need for sophisticated hacking techniques. The study’s findings align with the broader cybersecurity landscape, where the majority of breaches occur due to weak or reused passwords. While some users attempted to mitigate this risk by adding numbers to the base password string, such as ‘1234567’ or ‘12345678,’ these variations are still vulnerable to breaches. The NordPass analysis underscores the importance of educating users on the necessity of strong, unique passwords and the potential dangers of relying on easily guessable credentials. Cybersecurity experts recommend the use of password managers and two-factor authentication to enhance online security, particularly for younger internet users who may be more susceptible to these vulnerabilities due to their less experienced approach to password management.