Credential Stuffing

What is Credential Stuffing?

Credential stuffing is a type of cyberattack where attackers use automated tools to try numerous username and password combinations, often obtained from data breaches, to gain unauthorized access to user accounts.

How Credential Stuffing Occurs?

1. Data Breaches
   • Compromised Credentials: Attackers obtain lists of usernames and passwords from data breaches.
2. Automated Tools
   • Bots and Scripts: Attackers use automated tools to input stolen credentials across multiple websites.
3. Password Reuse
   • Common Practice: Exploiting the tendency of users to reuse passwords across different sites.
4. Web Application Vulnerabilities
   • Security Flaws: Leveraging vulnerabilities in web applications to facilitate automated login attempts.
5. Lack of Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
   • Single Point of Failure: Exploiting accounts without additional security measures like MFA.

What are the Impacts of Credential Stuffing on Businesses?

1. Financial losses
   • Fraudulent Activities: Financial losses from unauthorized transactions and account takeovers.
2. Increased Security Costs
   • Prevention and Mitigation: Costs associated with implementing advanced security measures to prevent credential stuffing.
3. Customer Trust
   • Erosion of Trust: Loss of customer trust due to repeated account compromises.
4. Operational disruption
   • Support Burden: Increased customer support needs to handle account recovery and security incidents.
5. Legal and Regulatory Issues
   • Compliance Challenges: Potential fines and legal issues related to inadequate security measures.