The Online Behavior That’s Putting You at Risk

As more and more people work and socialize exclusively online, protecting your digital identity is more important than ever. Most people believe they are knowledgeable about the risks of poor password security; however, they are not using that knowledge to protect themselves from cyber threats.

The Psychology of Passwords report examines online security behaviors of 3,250 global respondents, and it shows that people aren’t protecting themselves from cyber security risks even though they know they should.

Top 6 Risky Behaviors Making You a Target:

1. We use the same password over and over. If a hacker gets access to one account, they can wreak havoc on all of them!

• 53% haven’t changed their password in the last 12 months even after hearing about a breach in the news
• 42% say that having a password that’s easy to remember is more important than one that is very secure.

2. We want to be in control. We think that reusing passwords gives us more control, but it really puts us at risk. When asked why they reuse passwords, respondents said:

• 60% I am afraid of forgetting my login information
• 52% I want to be in control and know all of my passwords

3. We still memorize our passwords. Can you memorize unique, strong passwords for all your accounts? Only if you’re a superhero. If not, you shouldn’t be relying on your memory to protect you online.

• 54% keep track of passwords by memorizing them
• Remembering isn’t working: 25% reset their passwords once a month or more because they forgot them

4. We ignore breaches. If a brand you use is breached, you should change your password.

• 52% haven’t changed their password in the last 12 months – even after hearing about a breach in the news

5. We underestimate our risk. I’m not a target, right? Wrong. While your credit card number might only get a hacker US $5 on the dark web2, if they steal hundreds of thousands of pieces of data in one fell swoop, it adds up.

• 41% think their accounts aren’t valuable enough to be worth a hacker’s time

6. We are predictable. Personal information can be easily found by hackers on your social media accounts or by doing a quick internet search.

• 22% could guess their significant other’s password
• 24% use sentimental information in their passwords

There is much we need to be doing to protect ourselves online.

References:

1. https://staysafeonline.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Psychology-of-Passwords_2020-Ebook_FINAL.pdf
2. https://staysafeonline.org/resource/psychology-of-passwords/