Brute Force Attacks

What are Brute Force Attacks?

Brute force attacks are a type of cyberattack where attackers use automated tools to try numerous password combinations until the correct one is found, gaining unauthorized access to systems and accounts.

How Brute Force Attacks Occur?

1. Automated Tools
   • Password Guessing: Attackers use automated tools to try various combinations of usernames and passwords.
2. Dictionary Attacks
   • Common Passwords: Using lists of commonly used passwords to speed up the guessing process.
3. Credential Stuffing
   • Reused Credentials: Using stolen username and password combinations from previous breaches to gain access.
4. Targeted Attacks
   • Specific Users: Focusing on specific high-value targets by using personal information to guess passwords.
5. Lack of Account Lockout Policies
   • Unlimited Attempts: Exploiting systems that do not lock accounts after multiple failed login attempts.

What are the Impacts of Brute Force Attacks on Businesses?

1. Financial losses
   • Unauthorized Access: Financial losses from unauthorized access to systems and accounts.
2. Data Breaches
   • Compromised Information: Exposure of sensitive data due to successful brute force attacks.
3. Reputation damage
   • Trust Erosion: Loss of customer trust due to breaches and unauthorized access incidents.
4. Increased Security Costs
   • Mitigation Measures: Costs associated with implementing stronger security measures and account protection.
5. Operational disruption
   • Business Interruption: Interruptions in operations while addressing security breaches and improving defenses.