Just realized I've been using the same password for 12 years on my email account

I only figured this out yesterday when my bank called me about suspicious login attempts from Nigeria. I've been using that same password since high school, no caps, no numbers, nothing. The guy on the phone actually laughed when I told him. Has anyone else been this dumb about their login habits?

3 comments

3 Comments

tessa_murray1mo ago

Used to think strong passwords were overrated myself. Changed your mind entirely after that call?

milam481mo ago

Used to think strong passwords were overrated myself" - that was me until I got a call from my bank about suspicious activity on an account I'd used a simple password for. Now I use a password manager and let it generate random ones, makes life a lot easier than trying to remember them all. I also turn on two-step verification wherever it's offered, that extra step has saved me more than once.

rose_reed1mo ago

Yeah, that call from the bank is a real wakeup call... nothing like a little panic to change your habits fast. For me, the password manager was a game changer because I don't have to remember 50 different random strings anymore. Two-factor is a lifesaver too, just make sure you set up backup codes in case you lose your phone. One thing I'd add is to check your accounts every few months for any old logins or devices you don't recognize. It's a pain at first but once you get in the groove it's just routine.