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Securing Your Business: 9 Effective Strategies Against Credential Stuffing Threats

Were you aware that in 2019, the login details of approximately 4 million Canva users were compromised, decrypted, and shared online? This security breach was executed through a credential stuffing attack.

Before delving into preventive measures, let’s clarify what a credential stuffing attack entails.

Understanding Credential Stuffing Attacks

A credential stuffing attack is a cybercrime tactic where hackers exploit extensive databases of user credentials to infiltrate systems. Utilizing automated systems, cybercriminals input previously compromised username and password pairs into website login fields, attempting unauthorized access across various platforms. The success of these attacks results in account hijacking.

This method is gaining popularity, especially among less experienced hackers who have easy access to tools enabling login attempts on numerous online services. Alarming research indicates that companies face an average of 12.7 credential stuffing attacks per month, resulting in staggering losses of $6 million.

Given the high stakes, safeguarding your business from credential stuffing attacks is imperative.

9 Best Strategies to Protect Your Business

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Employ MFA during login processes to bolster security. This involves requiring an additional verification factor, such as a one-time password (OTP), alongside usernames and passwords. Given that 61% of users reuse passwords across multiple services, MFA becomes essential in preventing account breaches.
Avoid Email Addresses as Usernames: Discourage the use of email addresses as usernames. Encourage users to adopt distinct email addresses and usernames to reduce the likelihood of password reuse on different platforms.
Threshold Alerting for Failed Logins: Implement threshold alerting to detect and counteract failed login attempts effectively. Automated alerts can be triggered when a certain number of unsuccessful login attempts are detected, temporarily disabling login functionality and thwarting cybercriminals.
Enforce Strong Password and Authentication Policies: Advocate for strong password practices and limit the number of failed login attempts. Set strict policies, such as freezing accounts after 3-5 unsuccessful attempts, compelling users to reset passwords through direct interaction with customer service.
Adopt Passwordless Authentication: Explore innovative methods like passwordless authentication, which verifies users through devices, other accounts, or biometrics, eliminating the risk of password theft. This approach is particularly beneficial for users who struggle with remembering complex passwords.
Implement Web Application Firewalls (WAFs): Deploy WAFs to detect abnormal traffic patterns indicative of credential stuffing attempts. This not only identifies potential attacks but also prevents data breaches resulting from web attacks.
Use Credential Hashing: Safeguard passwords by employing credential hashing, which encrypts passwords before storage. Even if cybercriminals gain access to hashed passwords, the encryption process limits their usability.
IP Blacklisting: Identify and blacklist suspicious IP addresses associated with multiple failed login attempts. Although this method has limitations, such as susceptibility to IP spoofing, it adds an additional layer of protection.
Block Headless Browsers: Prevent access from headless browsers, often exploited by cybercriminals for illicit activities. By controlling or blocking these browsers through automated scripts or command-line interfaces, you mitigate the risk of unauthorized access.

Examples of Credential Stuffing Attacks

Credential stuffing attacks have affected various sectors, leading to notable incidents:

The North Face (2020): Faced a significant credential stuffing attack, resulting in compromised customer information and necessitating password resets.
HSBC (2018): Encountered a major credential stuffing attack, prompting the suspension of online account access and the implementation of enhanced cybersecurity measures.
DailyMotion (2019): Dealt with a large-scale credential stuffing assault, notifying affected customers and providing personalized support.
Dunkin Donuts: Became a victim of two credential stuffing attacks within three months, prompting proactive measures and customer notifications.

Conclusion

While there is no foolproof solution to prevent credential stuffing attacks, implementing these strategies adds an extra layer of security. Whether you run a small or medium-sized business, partnering with a reliable security provider is crucial. Safeguard your business and customer credentials by diligently applying these nine tips—leave no stone unturned in fortifying your defenses.

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