Do you use 123456 as a password? We hope not, as it was the number one most common leaked password on the dark web according to a recent article from cnbc.com. Other common passwords were 111111, ABC123, and, of course, Password. The list of 20 common passwords was identified by the company, Lookout, from passwords found on the dark web as a result of data breaches. Why are we using such easily guessed passwords? We may all be suffering from a bit of “password fatigue,” which Wikipedia defines as “the feeling experienced by many people who are required to remember an excessive number of passwords as part of their daily routine, such as to logon to a computer at work, undo a bicycle lock or conduct banking from an automated teller machine (ATM).”

So, what can you do if you have password fatigue? It is important not to use the same password across multiple websites or apps. Other tips include avoid using common, obvious passwords such as a set of consecutive numbers or letters. When you create a password, try to use a phrase that only you would understand or remember. Another tip is to try to avoid using passwords that contain personal information such as names of pets, children, or birthdays. Keeping a list of passwords on your phone or computer is also not recommended, so consider using a password manager. Finally, many apps now allow for the use of multi-factor authentication, which can add an additional level of security.

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