After analyzing millions of anonymous data points, the Dashlane team found that password security needs to be improved globally. “The average internet user has 240 online accounts that require a password,” the report said, emphasizing the need for individuals and businesses to prioritize password security. Reusing the same password across multiple accounts or using a weak password is a major cybersecurity risk, but this is common practice around the world, according to Dashlane.
Europe Tops Other Regions for Password Security
For this study, Dashlane analyzed anonymous data from its users in five global regions: Europe, the Americas, Africa, Asia, and Oceania. They found that people in Eastern, Northern, and Western Europe seem to prioritize password security compared to Southern Europe and the rest of the world. These regions in Europe had an average password health score of around 73. While this is a relatively good score, Dashlane noted that an ideal score is 90 for both individuals and organizations. Central America, Southern and Eastern Africa, and South-Eastern Asia followed Europe on the ranking with slightly lower scores. The report found that North America has the worst password security in the world, with about 20 percent of all passwords compromised. Globally, the average password health score falls between 69 and 77, which puts it in the “Needs Improvement” category.
How to Improve Your Password Health
Dashlane outlined four ways individuals and organizations can improve their password security. The checklist includes using a password manager, replacing reused or compromised passwords, using secure sign-in methods such as two-factor authentication, and prioritizing cybersecurity at home or the office. A compromised password can lead to identity theft, stolen financial information and generally gives threat actors the reins to wreak havoc on your privacy. Last year, we surveyed 1,247 workplaces in the United Kingdom and found that 66 percent of organizations have a lack of awareness about changing passwords. With login fatigue plaguing organizations, this is a good time to consider password security. To create better passwords, check out our guide to creating a secure password. We recommend using a password manager to eliminate the hassle of creating and memorizing long passwords. Dashlane’s password manager is one of our top-rated password managers, but you will find other equally good options in our article on the best password manager in 2022.
