Password Spraying Definition:
Password Spraying is a type of brute-force attack where an attacker tries a few commonly used passwords across many accounts, rather than attempting many passwords on a single account. This method allows attackers to avoid detection by bypassing account lockouts that typically trigger after multiple failed attempts on one account.
What is Password Spraying?
In a Password Spraying attack, an attacker tests a limited set of common passwords, such as 'password123' or 'welcome1,' across a large number of usernames. This technique contrasts with traditional brute-force methods, which focus on a single account and quickly trigger security mechanisms, like account lockouts or alerts. Password Spraying Exploits weak password policies and relies on the likelihood that some users will have predictable or weak passwords.
Why is Password Spraying important?
The purpose of Password Spraying is to gain unauthorised access to accounts while avoiding detection. Since many organisations enforce lockouts after a specific number of failed attempts on a single account, attackers use this approach to evade these defences. Password Spraying is particularly effective in environments where password complexity requirements are low and commonly used passwords are prevalent.
How does Password Spraying work?
Password Spraying attacks are conducted by attackers who gather lists of usernames and attempt to log in with a limited number of widely used passwords. These attacks may be automated with tools that test passwords systematically, such as Hydra or Medusa. By spacing out login attempts across multiple accounts and using popular passwords, attackers reduce the risk of triggering detection mechanisms.
Password Spraying Examples:
Examples of Password Spraying include an attacker targeting a company’s email accounts by attempting to log in to each account using a common password like 'Spring2024' or 'CompanyName123.' This technique can be particularly effective during periods when password resets are common, such as the start of a new year or quarter.
Password Spraying Issues:
Password Spraying poses a significant security risk, especially for organisations with weak password policies or poor detection capabilities. To defend against it, organisations should enforce strong password policies, implement multi-factor Authentication (MFA), and monitor for unusual login patterns. Training employees on the importance of unique, complex passwords also helps mitigate this risk.
Our Services
