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Password Attacks Overview

Passwords are one of the most important aspects of network security. They act as the first line of defense against unauthorized access to sensitive information, systems, and networks and against identity theft, financial fraud, and other types of cyber attacks.

However, as much as passwords can increase network security, they do not guarantee successful protection in every situation. Everything depends on the complexity involved when they are built. 

Strong and unique passwords can prevent unauthorized access to user accounts, reducing the risk of data breaches and cyberattacks. On the other hand, weak passwords can leave systems vulnerable to hacking and compromise.

Here are a few examples of some of the most commonly used weak passwords: 

  • "password" 
  • "123456789" 
  • "admin" 
  • "111111" 
  • "welcome"

Using simple and common passwords like these makes it easier for attackers to gain access to victims’ accounts, as they can use password-cracking tools to guess your password quickly. Passwords can be broken through a variety of methods, including:

  • Brute Force Attacks: In this type of attack, an attacker uses automated software to try every possible combination of characters until the correct password is discovered.
  • Dictionary Attacks: This attack uses a pre-built list of common words and phrases, such as a dictionary or a list of frequently used passwords, to try to guess the correct password.
  • Social Engineering: This is not a technical attack but a tactic that involves manipulating people to reveal their passwords. Social engineering can involve phishing emails or phone calls, impersonation, or other forms of deception.

Protect Against Password Attacks

To protect against password attacks, you need to use strong passwords. It's important to use a combination of upper- and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols to create a strong password. Passwords should also be at least 12 characters long and not include common words, phrases, or easily guessed information, such as your name or birth date.

In addition to using strong passwords, it is important to practice good password hygiene, such as regularly changing passwords, using multi-factor authentication, and never sharing passwords with others. Using unique passwords for each account is also recommended to prevent attackers from accessing multiple accounts with a single compromised password.