What is password spraying?

How Does Password Spraying Work?

Here is a brief overview of how password spraying works -

• Obtaining Usernames: Hackers frequently obtain lists of email addresses or usernames via company websites, social media, or public data breaches.
• Choosing a Default Password: Hackers choose a password that is frequently used. Usually, these are weak passwords that individuals might not have updated.
• Trying to Login: The hacker attempts the selected password on many different usernames. If it doesn't work, they continue the process with a different popular password.
• Staying Clear of Detection: Attackers minimize the possibility of setting off alarms or causing account lockouts by distributing attempts among numerous accounts and use just a few guesses per account.
  

Examples of Password Spraying

Example 1: Corporate Attack 

An attacker creates a list of possible usernames by targeting a corporation and using the corporate email naming convention (firstname.lastname@company.com, for example). After that, they attempt a password such as "Summer2024!" on each of these accounts. Given that it fits a strong password pattern and is predictable, this password may be used frequently throughout the summer.

Example 2: Cloud Services Attack

Cloud services like Office 365 and Google Workspace are targeted by attackers because they frequently have user-friendly interfaces but inadequate monitoring for several unsuccessful login attempts. They attempt to get into hundreds of accounts within the company using a password such as "Welcome2023".

Example 3: Public Database Leak

By using a list of previously stolen usernames, an attacker can target users who reuse passwords by trying a single password, like "Admin@123," across all of these accounts on a different service.

Why is Password Spraying Effective?

• Default or Weak Passwords: A lot of users utilize easy-to-guess passwords.
• Password Reuse: Users frequently use the same passwords on multiple platforms.
• Awareness of Lockout Policies: Automated lockout methods are avoided by making only a few attempts per account.
• Targeting is made easier by publicly accessible user lists.

Solutions to Prevent Password Spraying Attacks

One can take the following preventive measures to remain safe from password spraying attacks - 

• Enforce Strong Password Policies: Choose long, complex, and unique passwords; stay away from common ones.
• Implement Multi-Factor Authentication: Use hardware tokens, SMS or app-based tokens to add an additional layer of protection.
• Monitor Login Activity: Check multiple unsuccessful attempts across accounts or unusual patterns.
• Enable Account Lockouts: After multiple unsuccessful attempts to log in, temporarily lock accounts or add delays.
• IP Blocking and Geofencing: Block dubious IP addresses and limit access to genuine sites.
• Real-Time Threat Detection: To identify and address questionable activity, use security technologies.
• User Education: Teach people how to create secure passwords and promote the usage of password managers.
• Implement CAPTCHA: By using CAPTCHA challenges, you can stop automated login attempts.
• Secure Public Access Systems: Restrict access to login sites and mandate the usage of VPNs.
• Regular Audits: To keep ahead of threats, security rules should be reviewed and tested on a regular basis.

Conclusion

By implementing these solutions, organizations can significantly reduce the likelihood of a successful password spraying attack. Combining technical controls with user education and continuous monitoring creates a robust defence against this type of cyber threat.

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