Security

7 Password Mistakes That Put Your Accounts at Risk

Reusing passwords, skipping 2FA, and using weak passphrases are just the start.

By SecureChoiceGuide Team-February 16, 2026
7 Password Mistakes That Put Your Accounts at Risk

Mistake 1: Reusing Passwords Across Sites

The number one password mistake is using the same password on multiple sites. When one site gets breached (and they all do eventually), attackers try that password on every other service.

Use a unique password for every account. A password manager makes this easy -- you only need to remember one master password.

Mistake 2: Not Using Two-Factor Authentication

Even a strong password can be compromised through phishing or data breaches. 2FA adds a second layer -- usually a code from your phone -- that makes stolen passwords useless.

Enable 2FA on every account that supports it. Use an authenticator app (like Authy or Google Authenticator) rather than SMS, which can be intercepted.

Mistakes 3-7: Weak Passwords, No Manager, and More

Short passwords (under 12 characters), dictionary words, personal information (birthdays, pet names), not using a password manager, and never updating compromised passwords round out the top 7.

The fix is simple: get a password manager (we recommend 1Password or Bitwarden), generate unique 16+ character passwords for everything, and enable 2FA everywhere.

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