Password Usage Behavior of Online Users

The motivations for why individuals use passwords in the manner they do is explored using the lens of Protection Motivation Theory. We employ a large-scale survey to examine these motivations. Compared to earlier research that examined an individual’s intent to comply with password security guidelines, we instead examine password usage behavior in relationship to password strength. The results are consistent with individuals choosing the strength of their password based on the context and manner in which they must use it. If the account is more sensitive, then individuals will choose stronger passwords. Implications, limitations and directions for future research are discussed.