You usually can’t detect when a cybercriminal is targeting you as a business owner until it’s already too late. One of the methods they use is brute force attack.

 

This cyberthreat occurs when a hacker uses all of their resources to break into someone’s account. They don’t just break in. They also use the brand’s own password to access the account.

 

You must know that guessing a password is a long shot unless you really know the person and are familiar with their routines. This reduces the chances of guessing a password at random to one in a million.

 

Unfortunately, hackers have developed algorithms and programmes that allow them to guess millions of passwords every second until they locate the right one and obtain access to people’s accounts. This is an example of a brute force attack.

 

 

Moving Offline Doesn’t Help

 

In an online attack, a hacker uses the server to access the website where the account is being hacked. The algorithm is then run and allowed to continue testing passwords until it is cracked.

 

Some websites use rate-limiting on their login pages to deter brute-force attacks. This only allows people to try to log in a particular number of times before locking for a set period.

 

However, hackers can easily breach the system even with this security measure in place. They can also gain access to any account they desire.

 

It isn’t enough to simply move everything offline because brute force attacks can also be carried out offline. Offline attacks are more difficult to carry out, but they are more successful, which is why many hackers prefer them.

 

Offline Brute Force Attack

 

Hashing is one of the most prevalent offline brute force attacks. The hackers acquire access to the passwords in their encrypted hash versions in this assault. Then, they compare those hashes to sets of decrypted hashes they already have on hand and crack the code rather rapidly.

 

They can also use a method known as the dictionary attack to get access to an account. This occurs when hackers utilise personal information to guess your password.

 

People frequently use numbers that correspond to their birthdates or phone numbers that are mixed in with their names. They collect the data from the consumers and run it through their algorithm, which attempts multiple different data combinations until they crack the code.

 

How to Stay Safe from Brute Force Attacks as a User

 

When choosing a password, most websites include a “weak to strong” metre where you may type it in. Use it as a guide to see how strong your password is. It is simpler to crack the weaker it is.

 

Your password should ideally be long, not based on your name or birth date, and include both numerals and uppercase characters.

 

If you utilise a remote desktop system, make sure your credentials are strong and that you disconnect when you’re not using it. Due to the vulnerability of these connections, a hacker might quickly gain access to your entire computer.

 

Always use two-factor authentication. If you use this method, hackers won’t be able to access your account even if they crack your password.

 

How to Stay Safe from Brute Force Attacks as a Website Operator

 

Use rare-limiting to ensure that users on your website have an extra layer of security in the event that they are hacked. Setting the limit to five tries ensures that the hacker will have to spend a significant amount of time trying to gain access.

 

Utilise the secure shell. Even if hackers gain access to the account, the genuine owner will be able to safeguard access and lock them out.

 

Use updated algorithms to save passwords. This prevents the hacker from creating a table that will aid them in a dictionary attack. They won’t be able to identify a pattern if your algorithms are continually changing.

 

 

With all of the sophisticated methods used in today’s online frauds, it’s almost shocking to realise that one of the most prevalent and successful involves a human aspect.

 

It’s best to change your online habits, including using stronger passwords and avoiding repeating them. Updating easy-to-guess URLs can also help you avoid brute force attacks.

 

Protect yourself from brand abuse with FraudWatch. We’re a leading digital brand protection company that has been protecting client brands around the world since 2003. Contact us today to find out how we can keep your brand secure.