Weak, Guessable, or Hardcoded Passwords

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Weak, guessable, or hardcoded passwords are a significant security vulnerability in IoT devices. Many IoT devices are shipped with default passwords that are either too simple or widely known, making them easy targets for hackers. These passwords are often unchanged by users, providing an entry point for unauthorized access. The use of hardcoded passwords, which are embedded directly into the device's firmware, poses an even greater risk as they cannot be changed by users and are frequently publicly available. The use of weak or hardcoded passwords allows attackers to gain unauthorized access to IoT devices, potentially leading to the compromise of entire networks. This vulnerability is exacerbated by the scale of IoT deployments, where thousands of devices may share the same default credentials. Mitigating this risk involves implementing strong password policies, using multi-factor authentication, and regularly updating passwords to ensure device security. Proper management and security practices are essential to protect IoT devices from being exploited by cybercriminals.