A surprising new study on password security reveals that Most Common Passwords in 2025, millions of users still rely on extremely weak credentials. The latest data shows that “123456” remains the most commonly used password, closely followed by “admin,” “password123,” “qwerty,” and other easily guessed combinations.
Despite increased awareness of cybersecurity, poor password habits continue to put individuals, businesses, and sensitive data at risk. This research highlights the urgent need for stronger passwords, multi-factor authentication, and smarter digital hygiene.
Most Common Passwords in 2025
Weak and predictable passwords remain common for several reasons:
- Convenience: Users prefer short, easy-to-type passwords.
- Memory: Simple passwords are easier to remember across multiple accounts.
- Default Credentials: Many systems ship with default “admin” passwords that users fail to change.
- Lack of Awareness: Many users underestimate how quickly modern tools can crack weak passwords.
Top Most Common Passwords of 2025
Below is a summary table of the most common—and most dangerous—passwords identified in the study:
| Rank | Password | Why It’s Dangerous |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 123456 | Extremely easy to brute-force |
| 2 | admin | Default credential used everywhere |
| 3 | password123 | Predictable and widely used |
| 4 | 123456789 | Long but sequential and guessable |
| 5 | qwerty | Common keyboard pattern |
| 6 | letmein | Common phrase, low complexity |
| 7 | 111111 | Repeated digit, very weak |
| 8 | welcome | Very common word |
| 9 | 123123 | Repeating pattern, easy to guess |
| 10 | loveyou | Common phrase attackers try |
Risks of Using Weak Passwords
Using simple, predictable passwords can lead to severe consequences:
- Account compromise: Hackers can break in with minimal effort.
- Financial loss: Banking, shopping, and payment accounts may be hijacked.
- Data breaches: Sensitive personal or business data can be exposed.
- Reputation damage: Breaches erode trust and credibility.
- Credential stuffing: Reusing passwords puts multiple accounts at risk.
How to Create Strong, Secure Passwords
Follow these best practices to protect your accounts in 2025 and beyond:
- Use a passphrase: Combine random words into a memorable phrase
Example: StarRiver!BlueCoffee5 - Add complexity: Mix uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols.
- Avoid predictable patterns: No sequences like “123456” or common words.
- Use a password manager: Store and generate unique passwords.
- Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA): Adds an extra security layer.
- Change passwords periodically: Especially for sensitive accounts.
- Never reuse passwords: Each account must have a unique password.
Why This Research Matters
As remote work, online services, and digital platforms continue to expand, password security remains the first line of defense. This 2025 research serves as a reminder that despite known risks, many people still make fundamental mistakes.
- Individuals must adopt strong password habits.
- Organizations should enforce strict password policies and educate users.
Final Thoughts
The fact that “123456” and “admin” still top the list of passwords in 2025 is alarming. These weak credentials offer almost no protection against cyberattacks.
If you haven’t updated your password practices, now is the time.
Use strong, unique passwords, rely on a password manager, and enable multi-factor authentication. These simple steps dramatically improve your digital safety in today’s connected world.
