Fighting off cyberattacks? Make sure user credentials aren’t compromised

Fighting off cyberattacks? Make sure user credentials aren’t compromised

October 17, 2023 at 10:04AM

Threat actors are constantly finding new ways to trick end-users into giving up their credentials, leading to a rise in credential theft. Cybercriminals target credentials because people often reuse the same login information across multiple sites, giving hackers access to sensitive accounts. They use social engineering tactics like tailgating, spear phishing, whaling, and baiting to steal credentials. The problem of password reuse is widespread, even among IT leaders. To mitigate these risks, organizations should invest in comprehensive password tools that prevent the use of compromised passwords and implement proactive security measures. Specops Password Policy with Breached Password Protect is one such tool that continuously checks for compromised passwords and alerts users to change them. By investing in continuous security tools, organizations can strengthen their frontline defense against cyber threats. Sponsored and written by Specops Software.

Key Takeaways from the Meeting:

1. Credential theft is a major cybersecurity problem, with 54% of security incidents being attributed to credential theft.
2. Cybercriminals are motivated to steal credentials because they can gain access to multiple accounts and sensitive information if people reuse their login credentials across different sites.
3. Social engineering tactics, such as tailgating, spear phishing, whaling, and baiting, are commonly used to steal credentials.
4. Password reuse is a significant problem, with 13% of Americans using the same password for all accounts and 52% using the same password for some accounts.
5. Password reuse can compromise the security of all accounts associated with a user if one password gets breached.
6. Implementing a comprehensive password tool like Specops Password Policy with Breached Password Protect can prevent the use of compromised passwords and enforce stronger password policies.
7. Proactive security measures, including continuous monitoring and checking of end-user passwords, are necessary to combat credential theft effectively.

Please note that this is merely a summary of the meeting notes, and further discussion or analysis may be required.

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