In today’s digital world, passwords are the keys to your online life. Whether it’s your email, social media, or bank account, protecting your passwords is more critical than ever. Unfortunately, many people still use weak passwords that can easily be guessed or cracked. Among these, the 773rd most common password is surprisingly popular—and equally risky.
In this blog post, we’ll uncover what the 773rd most common password is, why it’s a bad choice, and how you can strengthen your password habits to stay safe online. Let’s dive in!
What Is the 773rd Most Common Password?
The 773rd most common password is “zaq12wsx.” At first glance, it might look like a secure password because it combines letters and numbers. But here’s the catch: it’s a predictable pattern.
- Why it’s popular: This password is often used because it’s easy to type on a QWERTY keyboard. If you look closely, it’s just a zigzag pattern down the keyboard.
- Why it’s weak: Hackers know these patterns. When running brute-force attacks or using password-cracking software, this type of password is among the first to be tried.
Why Weak Passwords Are a Huge Problem
Using a common password like “zaq12wsx” puts your personal information at risk. Here’s why:
- Hackers Use Password Lists: Cybercriminals rely on massive databases of leaked passwords to guess yours. If your password is on that list, you’re an easy target.
- Data Breaches Are Everywhere: With so many websites experiencing security breaches, your password could already be exposed without you even knowing.
- Reused Passwords Multiply the Risk: If you use “zaq12wsx” for multiple accounts, one hacked account can give hackers access to all your accounts.
How Hackers Exploit Common Passwords
Hackers don’t sit down and guess passwords manually. Instead, they use tools like:
- Brute Force Attacks: Automated programs that try every possible password combination until they find the right one.
- Dictionary Attacks: These programs use precompiled lists of popular passwords (like the 773rd most common password) to speed up the process.
- Credential Stuffing: When hackers take usernames and passwords from one breach and try them on other sites.
The takeaway? If your password is on a common list, it’s not secure.
How to Avoid Being a Target
To stay safe online, you need to move beyond easy-to-guess passwords. Here’s how:
1. Use a Password Manager
A password manager generates and stores unique, complex passwords for each of your accounts. This means you don’t have to rely on memory—or common patterns like “zaq12wsx.”
2. Follow Password Best Practices
- Make your password at least 12 characters long.
- Include a mix of uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and special characters.
- Avoid patterns or sequences (like “123456” or “qwerty”).
3. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Even if someone guesses your password, 2FA adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification, like a code sent to your phone.
How to Check If Your Password Has Been Leaked
Want to know if your password is already compromised? Tools like Have I Been Pwned let you check if your credentials have appeared in data breaches.
Why “zaq12wsx” Isn’t as Clever as It Seems
At first glance, “zaq12wsx” might seem random and hard to guess. But hackers know better. It’s part of a predictable pattern, making it easy to crack. If you’re using it—or any other common password—you’re playing with fire.
Secure Password Alternatives
Struggling to come up with a strong password? Here are a few examples:
- Combine unrelated words: “Pumpkin@River$Sky”
- Use a phrase: “IL0veMyC@t2010!”
- Let a password manager generate one for you: “d@J8&fL_2K”
Conclusion: Take Control of Your Password Security
The 773rd most common password, “zaq12wsx,” might seem convenient, but it’s a digital trap. Hackers are counting on people to use weak passwords, and by avoiding them, you’re already one step ahead.
Remember: a strong password is your first line of defense in the online world. Combine that with good habits like enabling 2FA and using a password manager, and you’ll make life a lot harder for cybercriminals.
FAQs About the 773rd Most Common Password
1. What is the 773rd most common password?
It’s “zaq12wsx,” a keyboard pattern that’s easy to type but highly insecure.
2. How do hackers find common passwords?
Hackers use password-cracking tools that rely on lists of leaked passwords and common patterns.
3. Is “zaq12wsx” safe if I add a special character?
Adding a special character might improve it slightly, but it’s still not recommended. Opt for a more unique password instead.
4. Why do people use weak passwords?
People often prioritize convenience over security, choosing passwords that are easy to remember.
5. How often should I change my passwords?
Experts recommend updating your passwords every 6–12 months or immediately after a breach.
