Hackers are constantly testing new strategies in an effort to gain access to user accounts, but password spraying is becoming a much more common tactic. Rather than relying on specific passwords obtained in data breaches, password spraying is the practice of taking a "shotgun approach" to login attempts, using commonly used passwords across a variety of accounts with the hopes that at least one or two of them will work.
67 percent of all Americans use the same password for different online accounts.
While one hacked account is bad enough, the percentage of people using the same password across multiple accounts means that one successful login will likely lead to more, compromising data across a wide variety of networks. No defense method is completely secure, there are several important steps that every used should take to secure their accounts online.
Create a Secure Password
With 24% of Americans having used passwords like "password" and "qwerty" to secure their accounts, it's time to get back to the basics and focus on creating stronger, more secure passwords that are unique to each account. If you're continuing to rely on passwords, it's an even better practice to use a string of words and characters known as a passphrase. This adds a deeper layer of protection that can help keep your account secure.
Use a Password Manager
Password managers take the need to memorize hundreds of passwords out of the equation. Rather than relying on a notepad or note app for, many password managers on the market today create incredibly secure randomly generated passwords across every account, providing the user access through a central hub that is secured by MFA (more on that in a second). With only one secure password to remember, users are able to add the strongest level of security to every account while also simplifying the process of keeping track of login data. SeedSpark partners with LastPass to deliver our team and our clients an industry-leading password management tool, making data management and password security simpler than ever before.
Enable Multifactor Authentication
Multifactor Authentication (MFA) continues to increase security in the world of tech. While it's not impenetrable, MFA requires a user to confirm their login from a secondary device - a step that immediately takes away the worry of a remote login from a hacker locking the real user out completely. Social engineering attacks have evolved in an attempt to trick users into sharing their MFA codes in fake "support" scams, but MFA remains one of the foundational defenses against an attack when a user's login information has been obtained from a data breach.
Practicing good password hygiene and making the most of tools like MFA and password managers are important steps that every user should take to secure their accounts. New data breaches, social engineering strategies, and attacks are coming every day, but users are able to protect their accounts and their data by learning about the latest attacks, preparing your security measures, and staying vigilant online. SeedSpark is proud to partner with small- and medium-sized businesses to deliver cybersecurity solutions ranging from network security and email monitoring to cybersecurity training and password management. Click here to learn more about SeedSpark Cybersecurity and our services. Interested in getting in touch with our team? Let's talk! Click the button below to share your information and a member of our team will be in touch for a free 30-minute technology assessment.
