What is a Brute-Force Attack?
A brute-force attack is a sophisticated hacking method used by cybercriminals to decode login information and encryption keys, gaining unauthorized access to systems, websites, user accounts, or networks. This trial-and-error approach involves exhausting all possible combinations of characters, including letters, numbers, and symbols, to breach passwords, login credentials, or encryption keys.
Similar to a criminal cracking a safe by trying many possible combinations, a brute-force attack tries every feasible combination of characters in a sequence to breach passwords, login credentials, or encryption keys. Cybercriminals typically use brute-force attacks to obtain unauthorized access to systems, websites, user accounts, or networks. They might install malware or shut down web applications, potentially causing data breaches.
A simple brute-force attack commonly employs automated tools to guess all possible passwords until the correct input is identified. This method is effective for cracking common passwords but can be time-consuming when dealing with strong passwords. Organizations can use complex password combinations to extend the attack time, buying themselves time to respond and thwart these cyberattacks.
There are various types of brute-force attacks, including:
- Using commonly used passwords such as "password," "admin," "12345678" or "qwerty."
- Focusing on phishing scams to obtain sensitive information before attempting a brute-force attack.
- Exploiting weaknesses in password policies, such as using the same password for multiple accounts.
- Prioritizing high-value targets, such as financial institutions or government agencies.
Motives Behind Brute-Force Attacks
The motives behind brute-force attacks vary, but bad actors often seek to:
- Steal sensitive information, such as financial data or personal identifiable information (PII).
- Ransom or extort money from victims.
- Disrupt operations by causing downtime or data corruption.
- Escalate privileges to gain higher levels of access.
Protecting Against Brute-Force Attacks
Organizations can strengthen cybersecurity against brute-force attacks by using a combination of the following strategies:
- Cybersecurity tools that harden password strength and limit attack vectors.
- Password managers to generate complex, unique passwords for each account.
- Two-factor authentication (2FA) or multi-factor authentication (MFA) to add an extra layer of security.
- Regularly updating and rotating passwords to reduce the effectiveness of brute-force attacks.
Examples of Brute-Force Attacks
Some examples of brute-force attacks include:
- Phishing scams, where attackers trick victims into revealing sensitive information.
- Password cracking using automated tools or software.
- Dictionary attacks, where attackers use pre-defined lists of common passwords to guess the correct input.
Passphrases: A Popular Alternative to Passwords
Passphrases are becoming a popular alternative to passwords, offering enhanced security and ease of use. Learn how to create a secure passphrase: