UK’s Most Hackable Passwords Exposed: Is Yours on the Risky List?
Okay, I need to help the user by shortening the given article to around 600 words and adding some pictures. First, I’ll read through the original content carefully to understand the main points. The article is about the most hackable passwords in the UK, highlighting common weak passwords like ‘123456’ and ‘password’, and providing advice on creating stronger passwords and using password managers.
Now, I need to identify the key points to retain: the study by KnownHost, the list of top hackable passwords, the security scoring system, expert quotes (Daniel Pearson and Jake Moore), the importance of password complexity, the risks of password reuse, and tips for staying safe (including using password managers).
Since the user wants it shortened to about 600 words, I’ll need to condense each section. The original is quite lengthy with multiple paragraphs. I’ll summarize each section, combine related ideas, and remove redundant information. For example, repeating points about numbers-only passwords and the examples can be streamlined.
Next, adding pictures. The user mentioned including some, so I should suggest where to place images with alt text from the original. The original has images with captions and alt texts. I’ll use those alt texts as placeholders for where the images should go in the rewritten content. For example, the first image about ‘123456’ breaches can be placed after introducing the top password. The second image about 30% being letters or numbers can go after discussing that statistic. The third image about longer passwords not being safe if common words are used can be placed there, and the last one about password managers near the conclusion.
I also need to check for word count. The original is way over 600 words, so after summarizing, I’ll have to ensure conciseness. Remove detailed statistics where possible but keep the essential numbers (like 50 million breaches for ‘123456’). Combine the quotes from experts into shorter statements without losing their message.
Ensure that the table of top passwords is included but maybe simplified or paraphrased if needed. However, the original uses a table, but in the shortened version, maybe a list would be better. Wait, the user wants to keep it as a table? The original had a table which was part of the article. Need to include that but shorten if possible. However, the user’s example includes a table, so I should include that as well, ensuring it’s concise.
Check for any links or references in the original that might not be necessary in the shortened version. For example, the link to the Daily Mail article can be omitted since we’re summarizing. Also, the ‘HOW TO CHECK…’ box might be optional, but since it’s part of the original permabox, maybe keep it but shorten it. Or perhaps remove it if word count is tight. Let me check: the user included a permabox with steps on checking email compromise. To save space, maybe mention the key resource (Have I Been Pwned) briefly instead of detailing each step.
Also, combine paragraphs where possible. For example, the initial paragraphs about the study can be condensed into a couple of sentences. The top passwords list can be presented succinctly. Ensure that each paragraph transitions smoothly and main points are clear.
Lastly, ensure the rewritten content flows naturally, maintains the original message’s intent, and adheres to the user’s instructions. Proofread to avoid any grammatical errors and check that the word count is approximately 600.
Weak Passwords Exposed: Your “123456” Could Be a Hacker’s Goldmine
If you’re using simple passwords like your birthday or “123456,” it’s time to rethink your strategy. A study by KnownHost revealed the UK’s most hackable passwords, and predictable sequences dominate the list. Over 30% of the 200 most common passwords contain only numbers or letters, making them easy targets.
[Image: A hacker typing on a laptop with "123456" breaches highlighted]
Caption: “123456” has been exposed in over 50 million data breaches (2007–2025), making it the weakest password.
Top 10 Most Hackable Passwords
Researchers scored passwords (0–10) based on length, breach frequency, and crack time.
