The brute force attack is one of the old, yet effective strategies used by malicious actors. Derived from its aggressive nature, the name "brute force" describes attackers using excessively forceful attempts to gain access to user accounts. This article will provide an overview of this attack, its different types and most importantly how you can defend against it.

What is a Brute Force Attack?

In essence, a brute force attack is a process of trial and error used to crack an encryption key or password. Brute force attacks rely on computing power to crack passwords, in contrast to more sophisticated attacks that take advantage of flaws in software or networks. Software that produces and attempts countless character combinations until the right one is identified can be used to carry out these attacks.

Types of Brute Force Attacks

• Simple Brute Force: This attack occurs when hackers try to crack your password without using automation or scripts. This method can quickly crack PINs and weak passwords.
• Dictionary Attack: This type of brute force attack takes place when a hacker selects a target and tries every combination against the target's username in an attempt to crack the password. This attack can also be carried out using random dictionary terms augmented with special characters and numbers. 
• Hybrid Attack: Combining a dictionary attack method with a simple brute force attack is known as a hybrid brute force attack. To find the right password, the attacker starts with a list of possible words and tries different character, letter, and number combinations.
• Reverse Brute Force Attack: Hackers start with a known password and try it with lots of usernames until they find a match. They often use passwords leaked from previous data breaches to begin their search.
• Credential stuffing: Instead of focusing on one user account, credential stuffing uses usernames and passwords leaked from one service to break into accounts on other platforms. This works well because many people use the same passwords for different services.

Defending Against Brute Force Attacks

The following are some ways to defend against Brute Force Attacks:

• Strong Password Policies: A password's resistance to brute force attacks can be greatly increased by implementing and enforcing password policies that require a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.
• Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): 2FA adds an extra layer of protection that greatly reduces the risk of successful brute force attacks by requiring an additional form of authentication in addition to a password, such as a one-time code sent to a mobile device.
• Limit Login attempts: Limiting the number of login attempts reduces susceptibility to brute-force attacks. For instance, allowing three incorrect password entries before imposing a lockout for several minutes discourages hackers, prompting them to seek easier targets.
• Implement Account Lockout Policies: If a hacker can keep trying passwords even after a temporary lockout, they'llattempt again later. Locking the account until IT unlocks it discourages this. Short lockout times are convenient but risky. Consider a long-term lockdown for excessive failed logins.
• Integrate CAPTCHA: These challenges are tough for automated computer programs but easy for humans. They'reutilized to distinguish human users from automated scripts, thereby preventing bots from brute-forcing their way into your data.

Brute force attacks remain a persistent threat in the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity. By understanding the different types of brute force attacks and implementing proactive defense strategies, organizations and individuals can significantly reduce their susceptibility to this malicious technique.

For organizations seeking expert assistance in fortifying their digital environments against threats like brute force attacks, Cyber Node stands ready to help. Our team of cybersecurity experts specializes in developing tailored solutions to fortify your defenses and safeguard your sensitive data.

Don't wait until it's too late. Contact us today via email at sales@cybernode.au or visit our website at cybernode.au to learn more about how we can protect your organization from cyber threats.