Key Takeaways
- 123456 remains the world’s most common password despite known security risks.
- Users across all age groups prefer short, predictable passwords for convenience.
- This security gap persists even as cyber threats become more sophisticated.
Despite increasing cyber-threats and advanced technology, human password behavior remains surprisingly primitive. A new NordPass report reveals that “123456” continues to be the most commonly used password worldwide, highlighting a significant security vulnerability.
Digital Anthropology Study
The study analyzed credentials from publicly exposed databases between September 2024 and September 2025. The findings show users consistently choose short, predictable passwords across generations and platforms. Even younger digital natives demonstrate the same poor password habits as older generations.
Predictable Patterns Dominate
Numeric sequences and simple name-birth year combinations remain overwhelmingly popular. These choices reflect humanity’s preference for convenience over security. Despite cybersecurity experts recommending long, unique passwords with character combinations and multi-factor authentication, old habits persist.
Real-World Security Consequences
This password inertia creates serious vulnerabilities as cyber attacks become more automated and sophisticated. The individual user remains the weakest security link, equivalent to leaving physical keys under doormats. While password managers and passkeys offer solutions, they require user adoption to be effective.
The endurance of “123456” reveals a fundamental truth: technology advances rapidly, but human behavior struggles to keep pace with security requirements.
