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Understand these seven password attacks and how to stop them. Hackers are always looking for new ways to crack passwords and gain access to your organization’s data and systems. So how can you ensure you’re taking the right steps to defend your business? In this post, we’ll explore the seven most common types of password attacks and provide tips on how to defend against them. By understanding hackers’ tactics and learning best practices for stopping them, you’ll be able to strengthen your organization’s overall security. 1. Brute-force attacks In a brute-force attack, hackers use automated tools to methodically check all password combinations until they find the right one. What they lack in sophistication, they make up for in sheer persistence — brute-force attacks can be surprisingly effective, especially against weak or short passwords.  How to prevent a brute-force attack: 2. Dictionary attacks In a dictionary attack, hackers use lists of commonly used words, phrases, and previously leaked passwords to try to gain unauthorized access.  This can greatly speed up brute force techniques when combined together in a hybrid attack. How to prevent a dictionary attack: 3. Password spraying Hackers use password spraying techniques to help avoid detection and work around account lockout parameters. 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, hackers can often fly under the radar of traditional security measures.  How to prevent a password spraying attack: 4. Credential stuffing A highly successful hacking technique, credential stuffing is where hackers use one service’s leaked username/password combination to try and access other services, taking advantage of the human tendency to reuse credentials across multiple accounts.  How to prevent a credential stuffing attack: 5. Phishing Phishing attacks can be extremely sophisticated, mimicking a legitimate service or site to trick people into performing actions or divulging confidential information. Hackers phish victims in various ways, including via email and text messages.  How to prevent a phishing attack: 6. Keylogger attack Keylogger attacks are some of the most dangerous types of password attacks. In a keylogger attack, a hacker uses software or hardware to record every keystroke a user makes, including any credit card numbers or passwords they type. These attacks are particularly insidious because they can capture the most complex passwords that might resist other forms of attack.  How to prevent a keylogger attack: 7. Social engineering “Hey, Amy. This is Darren from IT support. We’re having problems with computers in your department. I know it’s almost 5PM but can you click the link I just emailed you and confirm you can login?” Social engineering attacks use various techniques to manipulate people into performing actions or divulging confidential information. These attacks often create a sense of urgency or authority, pressuring recipients to act quickly without verifying the request’s legitimacy. How to prevent a social engineering attack: Additional best practices As you’re preparing your organization’s defense against password attacks, remember to implement these best practices: A better defense against password attacks Secure your Active Directory with tools like Specops Password Policy, which allows you to personalize your password guidelines to fit the unique requirements of your organization and maintain compliance with industry norms. Also continuously scan and block over 4 billion unique compromised passwords 24/7 rather than just at password change. With an interface that is easy for end-users to navigate provides the proper guidance to employees on how to create strong passwords that adhere to company policies, while still maintaining usability. This will lower your support burden by giving end users a better security experience. Want to learn more about building a layered defense against attacks? Get in touch to speak to a Specops expert. Sponsored and written by Specops Software.