In the digital age, where our lives are increasingly intertwined with the online world, the importance of a strong password cannot be overstated. Yet, despite the constant reminders and warnings about cyber security, many are still opting for simplicity over safety when it comes to their digital locks.
Fresh research has brought to light the top 20 passwords used in Australia, and the findings are a wake-up call for anyone who values their online privacy and security.
If you’re still using ‘0000’ or ‘1234’ for your passcodes, it’s time to sit up and take notice. And if you’re still clinging to your childhood pet’s name followed by your birth date, you might want to reconsider your approach to online security.
Avoiding common passwords
The most common password in Australia for 2024, according to data from online password manager NordPass, was none other than ‘password.’ With a staggering 12,449 instances of this password found in Australian data alone, it’s a hacker’s dream, allowing them to access confidential information in less than a second.
It seems Australians have a penchant for the predictable when it comes to password creation. The top five most common digital keys include ‘qwerty123,’ ‘123456,’ ‘qwerty1,’ and ‘123456789.’ These passwords are not only popular in Australia but also rank among the top six worldwide, with ‘123456’ being the most common—and most insecure—password worldwide last year.
One peculiar entry that has consistently made the list in Australia is ‘lizottes,’ which secured the number six spot and can be cracked in an average of just three hours. The origin of this password’s popularity remains a mystery, and we’re also curious to hear from the 4,000-plus Australians who use it.
The list of the top 20 passwords in the country also includes some pop culture references and simple patterns, with ‘pokemon’ at 16th, ‘dragon’ at 18th, and ‘charlie’ at 20th. These passwords, while perhaps nostalgic or endearing, are not doing any favours for your online security.
Here’s the full list of the 20 most common passwords in Australia:
1. password
2. qwerty123
3. 123456
4. qwerty1
5. 123456789
6. lizottes
7. qwerty
8. password1
9. 12345678
10. Abcd1234
11. abc123
12. Password1
13. Password
14. guest
15. 12345
16. pokemon
17. Qwerty123
18. dragon
19. 1234567890
20. charlie
If you find your password on this list, it’s time to take action. A strong password is your first line of defence against cyber threats. It should be a complex combination of letters, numbers, and symbols, and it should be unique to each account.
Creating a stronger password
To help you create a strong password and stronger defence online, here are tips to consider:
1. Invest in a password manager
A password manager is like a digital vault for your passwords, creating complex, random passwords for each of your accounts and storing them securely. While no system is infallible, a password manager could still be your best bet for keeping track of strong passwords. Just ensure that your master password is robust and memorable only to you.
Some free password manager options include Google Chrome’s built-in service and Apple’s iCloud Keychain, while Bitwarden, Keeper, and 1Password are reputable paid options.
2. Embrace two-factor authentication
Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of identification, such as a fingerprint, face ID, or a one-time code sent to your phone or email.
This significantly reduces the risk of unauthorised access, even if your password is compromised.
3. Create passphrases, not passwords
Instead of a single word, consider a passphrase—a sequence of random words or an unusual sentence that’s easy for you to remember but hard for others to guess. For example, ‘Mydogis110%HUMAN’ is a strong choice because it’s lengthy, nonsensical, and includes a mix of characters.
Create your passphrase by putting together the elements that made the sample a strong one.
Remember, your online identity is precious. Protecting it starts with something as simple as a robust password. Don’t wait until it’s too late—review your passwords today and ensure they’re up to the task of keeping your data safe.
To add, never disclose your passwords to others.
We’d love to hear from you—have you ever been a victim of a cyber attack due to a weak password? What steps have you taken to improve your online security? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below to help fellow YourLifeChoices readers stay safe in the digital world.
Also read: CBA tightens security amidst growing cyber threats—what you need to know
