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How secure is your password?

For many, the answer will be not very.

Laptop screen showing a list of stored passwords

Globally, “123456” is the most common, with over 3 million uses.

Countries in common?

Compared to last year (70%), the situation is getting worse.

Phone showing list of stored passwords

Experts have repeatedly urged internet users to make theirpasswords strongerbut many have seemingly misunderstood the assignment.

In the US, this password made a huge jump this year, breaking into the top five.

Is this just a personal problem?

A zoomed-in picture of a password entry screen. A password has been entered but is concealed

This year’s edition of the research also examined corporate password usage.

There are some interesting differences however.

Default passwords such as “newmember” or “admin” are more commonly used for business accounts.

Surfshark graphic of 2024 data breaches

it’s possible for you to very quickly improve your personal security in a few steps.

The first, and easiest step, is simply to create longer, more complex passwords.

A longer password can do wonders and is a simple change.

A person typing on a laptop with warning messages displayed on screen

Alternatively, you’re able to use a passphrase, which is a long string of random words.

A second easy step is never reusing passwords.

These are quick and easy steps you take to instantly boost your account security.

Hacker typing on laptop in darkened room

One of these is using a password manager.

Password managers allow you to easily and securely store all your passwords in one place.

If your password is compromised, 2FA prevents hackers accessing your account.

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One of thebest beginner VPNs, ExpressVPN, includes itsExpressVPN Keysin its plan.

Switching topasskeysis another option.

Passkeys are considered the most promising alternative to replace passwords for good.

A person typing on a computer while hackers use phishing to steal a file from their computer

Most modern online service providers, including Google, Microsoft, and Apple, offer passkey support.

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An open lock depicting a data breach

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