The password protection that we use, whether to access certain services for individuals or corporate networks, is essential in defending against cybercriminals. There are many ways to break your security and the main ones have been compiled by the password security tools company Specops. These attacks can be against both individuals and corporate networks, so some of the recommendations are aimed at network administrators or organizational websites. These are the 7 types of attacks against passwords most common and ways to protect yourself from them.
Brute force attack
In a brute force attack, hackers use automated tools to Try all password combinations until you find the right one. It is not the most sophisticated method, but it can be very effective, especially against weak or short passwords.
How to prevent a brute force attack
- If you manage a network or website, implement account lockout policies after a certain number of failed attempts.
- Demand a minimum length password of 20 characters or more.
- Use phrases instead of complicated and difficult to remember passwords.
Dictionary attack
In a dictionary attack, hackers use lists of common words and phrases, as well as previously leaked passwords, to attempt unauthorized access. This can significantly speed up brute force techniques when combined into a hybrid attack.
How to prevent a dictionary attack
- demands strong password policies that include a mix of letters, numbers and symbols.
- Implement custom dictionaries to block common industry- or organization-specific terms.
- Make a password audit to identify risks related to them.
Password scattering
Hackers use password scattering techniques to avoid detection and bypass account lockout security measures. What do they consist of? Instead of making multiple attempts on the same account, attackers use a small set of common passwords against many accounts. By spreading out their attempts, cybercriminals can go undetected by traditional security measures.
How to Prevent a Password Scatter Attack
- Use tools with adaptive authentication that can detect and respond to unusual login patterns.
- Requires the use of unique and complex passwords for each user.
- Regularly audit and update password policies to stay aware of new threats.
Credential filling
In credential stuffing, hackers use combinations of usernames and passwords leaked from one service to try to access otherstaking advantage of the common habit of reusing credentials across multiple accounts.
How to prevent a credential stuffing attack
- Educate users about the dangers of reusing the same password in several accounts.
- Promotes the use of password managers to facilitate the use of unique passwords for each account.
Phishing
Phishing attacks can be very sophisticated, managing to imitate a legitimate service or site to deceive users and cause them to perform certain actions or reveal confidential information. Hackers use various means for phishing, the most common being email and SMS.
How to prevent a phishing attack
- Provides regularly comprehensive awareness training to users.
- Implement email filters and configure mail servers to detect and block phishing attempts.
- Use labels email address to clearly identify external emails.
Keylogger attack
Keylogger attacks are one of the most dangerous types of password attacks. In a keylogger attack, a hacker uses software or hardware to record every keystroke a user makesincluding passwords or credit card numbers. These attacks are especially damaging because they can capture even the most complex passwords that could withstand other forms of attack.
How to prevent a keylogger attack
- Keep all systems up to date with the latest security patches.
- Use malware protection software updated on all devices.
- Implement strict policies on the use of USB devices and software installation.
- Promotes the use of Password managers with autofill capabilities that prevent keyboard input.
Social engineering
Social engineering attacks use various techniques to manipulate people and make them perform certain actions under deception or reveal confidential information. These attacks often create a sense of urgency or authority to pressure recipients to act quickly, without verifying the legitimacy of the request.
How to prevent a social engineering attack
- Perform regularly security awareness training that includes social engineering situations.
- Implement strict verification procedures for password resets, especially in the help desk.
- Avoid security questionswhich are especially susceptible to social engineering.
- Create a culture of safety awareness in which employees feel comfortable questioning unusual requests.
Additional security practices in an organization
- Deploy multi-factor authentication (MFA): Multi-factor authentication is one of the best ways to improve security and helps mitigate the impact of compromised passwords, social engineering attempts, and other types of password attacks.
- Avoid writing down passwords: Encourage users to use password managers instead of physical notes or post-its.
- Prevent password reuse: Educate users about the dangers of reusing passwords or simple variations such as changing just one number.
- Check for compromised passwords: Reusing passwords on personal devices, sites, or apps with weak security can put them at risk of being compromised. By using tools to regularly scan them for compromised passwords, potential threats can be detected and reduced.
- Prioritize length over complexity: Using longer passwords or passphrases is an effective way to protect against password attacks. Length is more important than complexity requirements.