Password generation behavior across the adult lifespan

The use of many Internet computer technologies (ICT) requires successful authentication. One form of authentication that places high demands on users' cognitive abilities is based on agreeing on a password. However, most studies of password use and password generation behavior to date have focused on young, cognitively advantaged individuals, such as university students. The study investigates password generation behavior by adults of different ages. The focus of interest is the generation of passwords for a sensitive Internet service, such as an online bank. Three aspects of this topic are focused on: (1.) The study describes which requirements are placed and which strategies are used in the generation and storage of security-sensitive passwords. (2.) The study investigates the influence of perceived memorability and perceived security of passphrases on the willingness of adult Internet users to adopt a passphrase as a password in a security-sensitive Internet service. (3.) The study explores what characteristics distinguish passwords that are generated for use in an security-insensitive and in a security-sensitive Internet service. German-speaking adults who have regularly used the Internet for at least one year are eligible to participate.An online survey is made freely available on the Internet for a set period of time. Part of the questions concern prepared passphrases whose selection is varied experimentally.