In the wake of increasing digital security breaches, a recent analysis reveals that many users continue to rely on easily guessable four-digit PINs. Notably, "1234" has emerged as the most common PIN found in data breaches. With over 1.3 billion individuals affected by data breaches last year, experts emphasize the importance of choosing more secure PINs and adopting additional security measures.
Among the 50 most commonly leaked PINs, thirty begin with either "19" or "20", indicating a pattern linked to years or birthdates. Such easily identifiable sequences make user accounts vulnerable to unauthorized access. Another frequently breached PIN, "2580", follows a straight line down the middle of most numerical keypads, further illustrating the pitfalls of selecting easily predictable patterns.
To enhance security, experts recommend using six-digit PINs, which provide a significantly larger number of combinations compared to four-digit options. In addition, biometric technologies like fingerprint or facial scanning can offer added layers of protection for devices and accounts. However, users should be aware that some devices may restrict the length of their PIN, underscoring the necessity of making informed security choices within available options.
Selecting a random and unique PIN is crucial in safeguarding personal information. Users are advised to avoid obvious sequences or patterns that might have personal connections, such as birthdates or anniversaries. Additionally, employing the same PIN across multiple devices or accounts can compromise overall security; therefore, diversifying PIN usage is strongly recommended.
Commonly used PINs such as "1111" and "0000" are particularly vulnerable due to their repetitive nature. The website HaveIBeenPwned.com, which aggregates over 320 million passwords and PINs from past leaks, serves as a testament to the frequency with which these patterns appear in compromised data.