It feels like I have a password for everything: my bank account, my Amazon Echo Show and even my Netflix app. With so many different devices and accounts, coming up with unique, strong passwords -- and remembering them -- can be overwhelming. It's tempting to get lazy and use the same password for multiple accounts. It's a relatable move, and it's one scammers are counting on.
The risks of using old passwords or including personal information in a new one is a big risk to your data and identity. Repeating passwords could open the floodgates to hackers getting access to more than just your Netflix account.
Yet CNET's latest survey shows that almost half of US adults (49%) have risky password habits and 24% admitted to using a password that's shared with another account. That's troubling to Attila Tomaschek, CNET software senior writer and digital security expert.
"Reusing the same password across multiple accounts puts users at risk of getting their online accounts compromised through a credential stuffing attack," said Tomaschek.
There's not one particular password formula that will guarantee your information is safeguarded. However, there are steps you can take to protect your password and data as best as possible. Here are CNET's survey findings and what our experts recommend when creating or upgrading your password.
Key takeaways 49% of Americans have risky password habits
24% of US adults use the same password for more than one account
25% of US adults use a random password generator, a practice CNET experts recommend
Cole Kan/CNET
What password habits are putting us at risk?
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