What is considered a default password vulnerability?

A default password vulnerability specifically refers to the risk associated with passwords that have not been changed from their original factory settings. When devices, applications, or systems are shipped, they often come with pre-configured default passwords intended for initial setup and access. If users fail to change these passwords after installation, the system remains exposed to unauthorized access. This is particularly concerning because these default passwords are widely known or easily discoverable, enabling attackers to exploit this vulnerability easily.

Commonly used passwords or those that are rarely changed can certainly pose risks as well, but they are not as critical as the issue of default passwords. Default settings are often listed in manuals or online resources, making them predictable and easily targeted by potential intruders.

Weak passwords that do not follow security guidelines can lead to vulnerabilities, but they represent a different concern rooted in the strength of the password rather than the default nature of the password itself. Thus, the most specific and critical issue defined by default password vulnerability pertains to unchanged factory settings.