A Large-Scale Survey of Password Entry Practices on Non-Desktop Devices

Users continue to authenticate on a wide range of devices. Logging into such devices is often complex due to f actors related to the variety of devices used and because of passwords. While passwords can present a challenge for users---especially in creating secure passwords---password managers can help users generate and store passwords. However, research has shown that users avoid generating passwords, often giving the rationale that it is difficult to enter generated passwords on devices without a password manager. In this paper, we conduct a survey (n = 999) of i ndividuals f rom the US, UK, and Europe, exploring the range of devices on which they enter passwords and the challenges associated with password entry on those devices. WWe find that password entry on devices without password managers is a common occurrence and comes with significant usability challenges that often lead users to weaken their passwords to increase the ease of entry. We conclude this paper by discussing how future research could address these challenges and encourage users to adopt generated passwords.