we-analyzed-1-million-passwords-heres-why-your-dogs-name-is-a-terrible-choice-and-what-to-use-instead

We all love our furry companions, but let’s face it, using their name as your password is about as secure as leaving your front door wide open with a neon “Welcome Hackers!” sign. Here at CyWreck, we crunched the numbers on over 1 million leaked passwords, and let me tell you, the results were barking mad!

Why is “BuddyBoy” Such a Bad Boy for Passwords?

Here’s the truth: predictability is a hacker’s best friend. Using personal information like pet names falls right into their lap. Hackers often employ automated tools that guess common passwords based on leaked data or social media profiles. Think your dog’s name is unique? Think again! “Max,” “Charlie,” and “Luna” are top contenders in the “Most Overused Pet Names (and Passwords) Hall of Shame.”

Beyond the Fido Fiasco: The Password Hall of Shame

But wait, there’s more! Here are some other password faux pas to avoid:

  • Birthdays and Anniversaries: Hackers can often find this info through social media.
  • Keyboard Patterns: “Qwerty123” might seem convenient, but it’s about as secure as a tissue paper shield.
  • Dictionary Words: Even complex words are easily cracked by brute-force attacks.

So, How Do You Craft a Password Worthy of Fort Knox (or at Least Your Bank Account)?

Here’s the paw-sitive news: creating a strong password is easier than teaching your cat to fetch. Follow these golden rules:

  • Length is Key: Aim for at least 15 characters, the longer the better.
  • Mix it Up: Combine uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
  • Think Unpredictable: Avoid using personal information or easily guessable phrases.
  • Uniqueness is King: Don’t reuse the same password for multiple accounts.

Bonus Tip:

Consider using a password manager to generate and store strong, unique passwords for all your accounts.

Remember: A strong password is the first line of defense against cyber threats. Don’t let your love for your furry friend turn into a security nightmare.

Now go forth and create passwords that would make even the most cunning cybercriminal whimper!

P.S. Looking for some inspiration? Try a password generator that creates random strings of characters. Just make sure you choose a reputable one and NEVER share your generated passwords with anyone!