Leaked credentials are a significant security risk and a common entry point for cyberattacks. They occur when usernames, passwords or other authentication details are exposed or stolen, often leading to unauthorized access to accounts and systems. Here are the most common causes of leaked credentials.
Phishing Attacks
Phishing is one of the most prevalent methods attackers use to steal credentials. Cybercriminals send fraudulent emails, messages, or websites that mimic legitimate organizations, tricking users into entering their login details.
Example: An employee receives an email that appears to be from Microsoft 365, prompting them to “reset their password” by clicking a link to a fake login page.
Data Breaches
When organizations suffer data breaches, user credentials are often exposed. Hackers target databases containing usernames, passwords, and other sensitive information.
Example: A popular online retailer’s database is hacked, and millions of user credentials are leaked onto the dark web.
Weak or Reused Passwords
Weak passwords (e.g., “123456” or “password”) are easy to guess, while reused passwords across multiple accounts increase the risk. If one account is compromised, attackers can use the same credentials to access other accounts.
Example: A user uses the same password for their social media account and their work email. When their social media account is hacked, the attacker gains access to their email as well.
Malware and Keyloggers
Malicious software, such as keyloggers can be installed on a user’s device to record keystrokes and capture login credentials.
Example: An employee downloads a malicious attachment from an email, unknowingly installing a keylogger that captures their Microsoft 365 login details.
Credential Stuffing Attacks
In credential stuffing, attackers use automated tools to test leaked credentials from one breach across multiple websites or services.
Example: Hackers take a list of leaked usernames and passwords from a breached gaming site and use them to attempt logins on Microsoft 365 accounts.
Insider Threats
Disgruntled employees or contractors with access to sensitive systems may intentionally leak credentials or sell them to attackers.
Example: An IT administrator leaves the company and shares their login credentials with a third party before departing.
Unsecured Storage of Credentials
Organizations or individuals may store credentials in unsecured locations, such as plaintext files, shared drives, or sticky notes, making them easy targets for theft.
Example: A team stores their shared account passwords in an unencrypted Excel file on a public cloud drive.
Third-Party Vulnerabilities
Third-party apps or services that integrate with your systems may have security flaws, leading to credential leaks.
Example: A third-party app connected to your Microsoft 365 account is hacked, and the attacker gains access to OAuth tokens or login details.
Social Engineering
Attackers manipulate individuals into revealing their credentials through psychological manipulation or deception.
Example: A hacker calls an employee pretending to be from the IT department and convinces them to share their password for “system maintenance.”
Man-in-the-Middle (MITM) Attacks
In MITM attacks, hackers intercept communications between a user and a service to steal credentials.
Example: An employee connects to an unsecured public Wi-Fi network, and an attacker intercepts their login details when they access Microsoft 365.
How to Prevent Credential Leaks?
- Use Strong, Unique Passwords: Encourage the use of complex passwords and avoid reusing them across accounts.
- Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): MFA adds an extra layer of security, even if credentials are leaked.
- Educate Users: Train employees to recognize phishing attempts and avoid sharing credentials.
- Monitor for Breaches: Use tools like Microsoft’s Identity Protection or third-party services to detect if credentials have been leaked.
- Regularly Update Passwords: Implement policies requiring users to change passwords periodically.
- Secure Storage: Use password managers to securely store and manage credentials.
- Monitor Third-Party Integrations: Ensure third-party apps and services follow security best practices.
- Deploy Endpoint Security: Use antivirus and anti-malware solutions to protect devices from keyloggers and other threats.
Conclusion
Leaked credentials are a major security threat, but understanding their causes and implementing preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk. By fostering a culture of security awareness and leveraging tools like MFA and password managers, organizations can protect their accounts and data from unauthorized access. Stay proactive and vigilant to keep your credentials safe!
Our cybersecurity personnel can assist you with your security needs.