title: Why use SHA1 for hashing secrets when SHA-512 is more secure?
body: <p>I don't mean for this to be a debate, but I'm trying to understand the technical rationale behind why so many apps use SHA1 for hashing secrets, when SHA512 is more secure. Perhaps it's simply for backwards compatibility.</p>
  
  <p>Besides the obvious larger size (128 chars vs 40), or slight speed differences, is there any other reason why folks use the former?</p>
  
  <p>Also, SHA-1 I believe was first cracked by a VCR's processor years ago. Has anyone cracked 512 yet (perhaps with a leaf blower), or is it still safe to use without salting?</p>