Password Spraying – Recognizing, preventing and minimizing risks

Each of us uses many online accounts and platforms that are protected only by a thin barrier – our password. We often approach the subject of passwords routinely, not realizing that it is our first and often only line of defense against unwanted intruders. Password spraying attacks are a growing threat to both individual users and entire organizations. What are the mechanisms of these attacks? How can we guard against them?

What is password spraying?

Password spraying is one of the popular attacks on digital security. While the name itself may sound somewhat enigmatic, its mechanics are simultaneously simple and alarmingly effective. Understanding this method of attack and learning how to recognize it is the first step to protecting your data online.

Mechanism of action of the attack

Instead of a traditional hacking attempt, where the hacker focuses on a single account, trying different passwords multiple times, a password spraying attack involves using a single, commonly used password on multiple accounts at once. This action takes advantage of the fact that many users use simple and easy-to-guess passwords. It is these accounts that become the main target for the criminal.

Difference between password spraying and credential stuffing

While the two attack methods may seem similar, they have fundamental differences. While password spraying involves attempting to access multiple accounts with a single password, credential stuffing uses a combination of known usernames and passwords (often acquired from previous data leaks) to gain access to accounts on different platforms. In short, password spraying “assumes” while credential stuffing “knows.”

Modes of hacks (e.g., low-and-slow)

Hackers are familiar with security systems that lock accounts after several failed login attempts. That’s why they use a “low-and-slow” strategy. Instead of making many login attempts to one account in a short period of time, they prefer to spread their attempts over a longer period to avoid detection. Such methods are harder to spot because they mimic human errors when entering passwords. This method relies on patience, and this is often what determines the success of such an attack.

Effects of a successful password spraying attack

Password spraying attacks have become one of the more subtle yet dangerous tools in the arsenal of today’s hackers. While it may appear to be merely an attempt to guess passwords, the consequences of a successful attack can be surprisingly broad and severe for both individual users and entire organizations.

Implications for individual users

Unauthorized activity on an individual’s account is every Internet user’s nightmare. The consequences of a successful password spraying attack can be manifold:

• Unauthorized purchases: Imagine a situation where someone makes a purchase with your money. It could be the purchase of a luxury item, a subscription or even travel. All without your knowledge, until you receive a bill or notification of the transaction.

• Changed access data: If a hacker gains access to your account, he or she can immediately change your password and access credentials, blocking your access. Rebuilding trust in online services after such an incident can be difficult, not to mention the time and effort required to regain control of your account.

Consequences for companies

For companies, the impact could be even more severe:

• Access to sensitive resources: An attacker can gain access to a company’s internal systems, such as customer databases, product plans or secret projects. This can lead to the theft of intellectual property and violations of customer privacy.

• Potential financial losses: In addition to direct losses related to unauthorized transactions, a company may face costs associated with rebuilding its image, fines for violations of data protection regulations, and losses due to business interruption.

• Threat to reputation: In the age of social media, information spreads rapidly. A security incident can destroy customer confidence in a brand for years to come.

It is worth being aware of the risks in order to effectively defend against them.

How to detect password spraying attack?

Detecting a password spraying attack is not easy, due to the discreet nature of such hacking attempts. However, certain signals may indicate that someone is trying to compromise our account security. Learn about the symptoms and the appropriate actions that can be taken once a potential threat is detected:

Symptoms that indicate potential attacks:

• Frequent notifications of failed logins: When we get repeated notifications of failed login attempts to our account, it could be a sign that someone is trying to get to our password.

• Notifications from unusual locations: If the system notifies us of access attempts from a location from which we don’t normally log on, this could be a symptom of an intrusion attempt.

• Messages about a blocked account: Receiving such a message may suggest that someone has tried to log into our account multiple times by entering incorrect passwords.

• Unknown devices trying to gain access: Security systems often notify you of login attempts from new or unknown devices.

• Speed of login attempts: If you notice that login attempts are made at short intervals, this could be an indicator of a hacking attempt.

What precautions can be taken after an attempted attack is detected?

1. Change the password: This is the basic and most important response. Make sure the new password is strong and has not been used elsewhere.

2. Enable two-factor authentication: An extra layer of security can significantly hinder hacking attempts.

3. Monitor account activity: Check activity logs regularly to note any unusual activity.

4. Contact the administrator: If you have a company account or use services that the administrator manages, notify the administrator of your suspicions.

5. Consider using specialists: If you are unsure of the scope of an attack or have doubts about the security of your account, seek help from cyber security experts.

Password manager – an effective shield against attacks

Password Manager is specialized software that allows you to store, generate and manage strong, unique passwords for a variety of accounts and services. With it, you don’t have to remember each password separately, and at the same time you can be sure that your data is protected from potential attacks.

Password Manager allows you to secure all your passwords in one secure location, often called a “virtual safe.” Each password is encrypted and available only to you. In the case of password spraying attacks, the password manager becomes an invaluable barrier, as an attacker cannot easily guess the complex password combinations generated by such software. In addition to basic functions such as storing and generating passwords, many applications also offer a function to alert you to potential security breaches or data leaks.

If you want to learn more about how password managers work, we recommend the article available at: https://ith.eu/blog/jak-dziala-menedzer-hasel/.

We particularly recommend the Bitwarden password manager – available as part of ITH Net ‘s offering and at https://www.kru.pl/ – a provider of professional hosting. The software allows you to securely store encrypted data in a virtual safe. An extension for web browsers is also available, which greatly facilitates daily use of online services.

How to effectively prevent password spraying attacks?

Today’s online threats require modern and effective protection methods. Password spraying attacks, while not new, still pose a serious challenge to many organizations. Learn about some steps you can take to strengthen your system’s defenses against this type of threat.

• Risk awareness and training for employees

Education is the first step in the fight against network attacks. Regular security training for employees and users can significantly reduce the risk of a successful attack. It is important to understand how different attack methods work and the ways to detect and prevent them.

• Security policies and password managers

Developing and implementing an effective security policy is the foundation for protecting against any threats. Password managers, such as Bitwarden, help maintain strong and unique passwords for each account, making it much more difficult for hackers to act.

• Two-factor authentication and other security features

Two-factor authentication is an additional layer of protection that requires the user to enter a second verification form, such as an SMS code or authentication application. Such security significantly complicates the work of attackers and reduces the risk of successful hacking.

• Protecting email and using modern tools

Email is a frequent target of attacks, so it is important to secure it properly. It is recommended to use spam filters, tools to detect suspicious messages and regular software updates. Modern IT tools can secure your email inbox and monitor network traffic for unusual behavior, allowing you to react quickly to potential threats.

Preventing password spraying attacks requires a combination of knowledge, tools and commitment from all users. Remember, the best protection is one that is regularly updated and adapted to changing threats.

Password Spraying – summary

Taking care of passwords and cyber security is extremely important, especially now that online dangers are lurking at every turn. To effectively defend against them, it is worth using the right tools and seeking support from specialists. Good knowledge and the right tools are the foundation of online security.