What is a common vulnerability when using simple passwords that could lead to unauthorized access?

Using simple passwords that rely on common vocabulary significantly increases the risk of unauthorized access. Common vocabulary refers to easily guessable words or phrases, such as "password," "123456," or the names of family members, which can be exploited by attackers using brute-force methods or dictionary attacks. These methods involve trying numerous combinations of words and phrases that are familiar or widely used.

Strong passwords are critical for securing accounts because they resist these kinds of attacks. They should incorporate a mix of letters (uppercase and lowercase), numbers, and special characters, making them much harder to guess. The use of common vocabulary directly undermines this security approach, rendering the password weak and easily compromised.

In contrast, options related to password expiration and complexity are designed to enhance security by ensuring that passwords are periodically changed and that they include a range of character types. Two-factor authentication adds another layer of defense that helps protect accounts even if a password is compromised, but it does not directly address the inherent vulnerability of using simple, easily guessed passwords.