SME CYBER THREAT INTEL: 60% of Britons Reuse Passwords Across Multiple Accounts

New research reveals concerning password habits ahead of World Password Day

As World Password Day approaches on May 1st, a new survey from NordPass has uncovered alarming statistics about UK residents’ password practices. According to the research, 60% of Britons reuse passwords across multiple online accounts, creating significant cybersecurity vulnerabilities.

The study found that UK residents reuse their passwords on approximately five accounts on average, with one-fifth admitting to using the same password across ten or more services. This widespread practice creates a dangerous domino effect where a single compromised password can potentially grant cybercriminals access to a person’s entire digital footprint.

“People reuse passwords because it’s easier, but it’s worrying that despite repeated warnings, about 10% of respondents still don’t think there’s a significant risk,” said Karolis Arbaciauskas, Head of Business Product at NordPass. “This mindset is a disaster waiting to happen. Threat actors could gain access to all your accounts, your identity could be stolen, your credit card maxed out, or loans could be taken out in your name.”

Password Habits Breakdown

The survey revealed that approximately one-third of people who reuse passwords have only one or two regular “go-to” passwords. While 62% of those who reuse passwords make some modifications before using them elsewhere—typically adding or changing a number, symbol, or letter—about half of those with just one or two passwords make no changes whatsoever when reusing them.

One of the most concerning findings is that roughly a quarter of respondents justify their password reuse by claiming they only do it for accounts they consider “less important.” Arbaciauskas warns this reasoning is flawed: “There are no ‘less important’ accounts. Threat actors collect data over time and can find relevant information in any account that would be enough to create convincing phishing emails.”