In the modern digital era, safeguarding devices and the sensitive information they contain is paramount, as any vulnerability can attract unwanted attention from malicious actors. Biometrics stands out as a formidable method for protecting devices and the data stored on them from prying eyes of cybercriminals. Among the various security measures, employing a 4 or 6-digit PIN code serves as a fundamental defense against unauthorized access.
Delving into the realm of 4-digit PINs, Jake Moore, a security advisor at ESET, offers insightful perspectives. Particularly noteworthy is the exploration of the least common PIN numbers, which can significantly bolster account and device security. This compilation originates from the late Nick Berry, who was associated with Data Genetics, providing a curated list of 4-digit PINs adept at mitigating contemporary cyber threats.
Here’s a glimpse at some of these less common yet effective 4-digit PINs-
1. 8557
2. 8438
3. 9539
4. 7063
5. 6827
6. 0859
7. 6793
8. 0738
9. 6835
10. 8093
While these PINs aren’t impervious to automated guessing techniques employed by cybercriminals, they offer a layer of defense by being less frequently utilized. This aspect makes them particularly valuable in thwarting password spray attacks and similar security breaches.
Contrastingly, the following are the most commonly used 4-digit PINs:
1. 1234
2. 1111
3. 0000
4. 1212
5. 7777
6. 1004
7. 2000
8. 4444
9. 2222
10. 6969
It’s crucial to recognize that for every 4-digit PIN, there exist over 10,000 possible combinations, illustrating the vast array of choices available for enhancing security. Similarly, 6-digit PINs offer even greater permutations, with over 100,000 combinations, a concept rooted in mathematical principles of permutations and combinations.
For individuals less acquainted with the evolving landscape of cyber threats, it’s essential to grasp the essence of the risks prevalent in today’s digital environment. Merely relying on a PIN for security is insufficient. Whenever feasible, implementing Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is advisable, or alternatively, leveraging biometric authentication methods such as fingerprint or iris scans can significantly fortify the security of online accounts.
