Hackers use 5 common tactics to hack passwords: 1) Trying common passwords by referencing lists of popular passwords; 2) Using social engineering to learn personal details to guess passwords; 3) Sniffing unsecured Wi-Fi networks to intercept transmitted passwords; 4) Installing keyloggers to capture passwords as they are typed; 5) Leveraging information from social media to identify accounts on other sites protected by the same password. The document provides actions people can take to strengthen their passwords and online security against these tactics.