Cyber Security Spotlight: Password Attacks

In the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity, password attacks remain a persistent threat. These attacks target the weakest link in our digital defences: the humble password. Let’s shine a spotlight on the various password attack methods and explore strategies to safeguard your organization.

1. Brute Force Attacks

• What it is: Brute force attacks involve systematically guessing passwords by iterating through all possible combinations of allowable characters. Hackers use software to crack the code.
• Mitigation: Implement strong password policies and encourage users to create complex, unique passwords. Consider using multi-factor authentication (MFA) to add an extra layer of security.

2. Credential Stuffing

• What it is: Malicious actors exploit users’ tendency to reuse passwords. They use breached usernames and passwords to flood login portals with login requests, hoping to gain unauthorized access.
• Mitigation: Educate users about password hygiene and discourage password reuse. MFA is crucial to thwart credential stuffing attacks.

3. Social Engineering

• What it is: Social engineering tricks users into revealing their passwords willingly. Techniques include phishing emails, phone calls, or impersonation.
• Mitigation: Train employees to recognize social engineering tactics. Regular security awareness programs are essential.

4. Dictionary Attacks

• What it is: Attackers iterate through commonly used passwords, including words from dictionaries and simple variations.
• Mitigation: Encourage users to avoid predictable passwords. Implement account lockout policies to prevent repeated failed login attempts.

5. Keylogger Attacks

• What it is: Keyloggers silently record keystrokes, capturing passwords as users type.
• Mitigation: Use endpoint protection tools to detect and prevent keyloggers. Regularly scan systems for malware.

6. Password Spray Attacks

• What it is: Rather than targeting one account, password spraying tries a small number of common passwords against many accounts. It avoids account lockout rules and is harder to detect.
• Mitigation: Monitor login attempts and set up alerts for suspicious activity. Implement MFA to mitigate the impact of successful password sprays.

7. Phishing

• What it is: Phishing emails trick users into revealing their credentials. Attackers create convincing fake login pages.
• Mitigation: Educate users about phishing indicators. Verify URLs before entering login details.

8. Man-in-the-Middle Attacks

• What it is: Hackers intercept communication between users and servers, capturing passwords in transit.
• Mitigation: Use secure protocols (e.g., HTTPS) to encrypt data. Be cautious when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks.

Why It Matters

Password attacks consistently top the list of data breach vectors. Despite being relatively easy to mitigate, many organizations lack proper safeguards. Remember that even with MFA, passwords play a crucial role. Protect your organization by following the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s password guidance (Special Publication 800-63B). Well-created and well-protected passwords are essential, but MFA remains the gold standard for securing sensitive accounts and information.

Stay vigilant, educate your team, and fortify your defenses against password attacks