Many still use passwords that contain simple patterns, DOB, and pet names
SEATTLE, Jan. 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — PasswordManager.com, a dedicated resource for password security and internet safety, has published the results of a new survey showing that Americans continue to rely on risky password habits in 2026, including password reuse and easily guessable patterns.
common password mistakes
According to the survey of 1,500 U.S. adults, 84% do not use a unique password for every account, and 65% admit to using predictable patterns and/or personal information in their passwords. Common choices include simple number or letter patterns (26%), birth years or dates (22%), family names (20%), pet names (20%), common words or phrases (17%), and even the word “password” (6%). Despite these habits, only 5% rate their passwords as very risky, while 63% say their passwords are not very risky or not risky at all.
Many Americans also delay changing passwords. About 49% say they don’t update passwords more often because they worry they’ll forget new ones, while 40% say it’s inconvenient. About 31% say they don’t think it’s necessary, and 23% say they use a password manager.
“Fear of forgetting passwords is such a persistent barrier because of the time and effort it takes to reset a forgotten password,” explains information systems and cybersecurity expert Gunnar Kallstrom. “The best practice is having a complex and unique password for each account; however, remembering that many passwords is essentially impossible. The best solution is to use a password manager.”
Security incidents remain common: 43% report being notified that one of their accounts was involved in a breach, hack, or scam. Among those notified, most took action, with 73% changing their password immediately and 22% changing it eventually.
Americans are generally open to stronger login security, though adoption is often passive. For two-factor authentication (2FA), 43% say they enable it whenever available and 43% only do so when required, while 67% view 2FA positively. Passkeys also have growing awareness: 74% are at least slightly familiar, and 66% say they are willing to switch, though many want proof they’re more secure (52%) or a better understanding of how they work (44%).
This survey was commissioned by PasswordManager.com and conducted online via Pollfish in December 2025 among 1,500 U.S. adults.
To view the full report, visit: https://www.passwordmanager.com/2-in-3-americans-are-still-making-these-obvious-and-dangerous-password-mistakes-in-2026/
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SOURCE Password Manager
