The Most Popular PIN Number is 1234: Research from 3.4 Million PIN Codes Highlights Security Vulnerabilities

In an age where data breaches are becoming all too common, it’s crucial to take a closer look at the security of our personal identification numbers (PINs). 

A study by DataGenetics¹, which analyzed a staggering 3.4 million PINs, revealed some alarming patterns in how people choose these crucial codes. With cybercriminals constantly on the prowl, it’s time to ask yourself: is your PIN as secure as you think it is?

The Most Common PINs

Brace yourself for some unsettling statistics:

• 1234 (10.7% of all PINs)
• 1111 (6.0%)
• 0000 (1.9%)
• 1212 (1.2%)
• 7777 (0.7%)

Shockingly, the top 20 PINs account for over 26% of the total, despite there being 10,000 possible combinations. People tend to gravitate towards easily memorable numbers, such as repeating digits (5555), simple patterns on a keypad (2580), or significant years like birthdays or anniversaries (1972).

The Least Common PINs

On the other end of the spectrum, the least commonly used PIN is 8068, appearing less than 0.001% of the time. Other rarely used PINs include:

• 7637
• 6835
• 9629

These seemingly random combinations follow no obvious pattern, making them statistically the “safest” choices. However, now that this information is out there, it’s best to get creative with your PIN selection.

8 Tips for Crafting a Fort Knox-Worthy PIN

Avoid the Obvious

Steer clear of common PINs like 1234, 1111, or 0000. Hackers are well aware of these popular choices. Avoid any sequential, repeating, or easily guessable patterns.

Ditch the Dates

Using your birthday, anniversary, or birth year might be memorable, but it’s also easily guessable. Opt for a more obscure date, like the time of your first kiss or when you were born.

Consider using a date that has personal significance but isn’t readily available in your personal information.

Randomize

Choose a random combination of numbers with no discernible pattern. The more random, the better. You can use a random number generator or pick numbers out of a hat to ensure true randomness.

Mix It Up

If the system allows it, use a combination of numbers and letters for added security. Mixing characters significantly increases the possible combinations, making your PIN harder to crack.

Go Long

When possible, choose a PIN longer than the standard 4 digits. The more characters, the harder it is to crack. Each additional digit exponentially increases the number of possible combinations.

Avoid Personal Info

Don’t use your phone number, address, or social security number as your PIN. This information can be easily obtained by cybercriminals. Avoid using any personal data that can be found in your wallet or online.

Keep It Fresh

Change your PIN periodically, especially after any reported data breaches. A stale PIN is a vulnerable one. Set a reminder to update your PINs every few months.

Stay Tight-Lipped

Never share your PIN with anyone, and be cautious when entering it in public. Wandering eyes and hidden cameras could be watching. Cover the keypad with your hand when inputting your PIN.

Your PIN: The Unsung Hero of Your Digital Security

In the grand scheme of your digital life, your PIN may seem like a small detail, but it plays a vital role in your overall security architecture. 

While it’s true that no PIN is entirely foolproof, adopting a proactive and creative approach when selecting your PIN can make a world of difference in fortifying your defenses against cybercriminals.

Source:

1. datagenetics.com