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When signing up for a new account, we often choose a simple, easy-to-remember password. But, have you noticed that many platforms now require strong passwords to be created? This is because strong passwords protect your account from brute force attacks and improve overall security.
Recent studies by Abnormal Security show that in May 2021, the volume of brute force attacks grew by 160%. This attack is popular among many cybercriminals due to its ease and simplicity. The real question, then, is how to stop a brute force attack.
In this article, we’ll cover key recommendations for businesses on how to stop a brute force attack. Before that, learn what they are and explore the different types of attacks.
What is Brute Force Attack?
It is a simple hacking method where the attacker tries to gain unauthorized access to your computer system by trying every possible password to discover the correct one. It is named Brute force because attempts to break the network will be repetitive and forceful and have a high success rate.
Thousands of combinations are tested in the attempt to find a single correct combination, making it relatively easy for attackers to break the network. This is done for various reasons, including data theft, financial gain, disruption, and malware distribution.
What are the Types of Brute Force Attacks and How to Identify Them?
There are many types of Brute force attacks,
- Simple Brute Force Attack: Hackers attempt to decode your password without the assistance of scripts or automation.
- Dictionary attack: Hackers crack passwords by testing all possible combinations, often using random dictionary words with special characters and numbers.
- Credential stuffing: Threat actors exploit usernames and passwords that users have reused across various systems, attempting various password combinations to gain unauthorized access.
- Hybrid Attack: This attack combines brute force and dictionary attacks to guess these mixed combinations, starting with logical guesses and then trying various other variations.
- Reverse Brute Force Attack: Hackers use automation to search for usernames and passwords that are publicly known or leaked.
These attacks depend on cracking passwords through repeated attempts. Hackers use automated tools or software found on the dark web. If you notice repeated unsuccessful login attempts on your account, it may be a sign of a brute force attack. This could be from the same IP address trying multiple times, different IP addresses targeting a single account, or various IP addresses attempting to access the account within a short time frame.
How to Stop a Brute Force Attack?
Brute force attacks are preventable and if you want to know how to stop a brute force attack, here are a few simple ways,
Use a strong password
The complexity of a password significantly affects the time it takes to crack it. If you are a person who uses passwords such as “12345” or “password,” then it is time to change. Brute force attacks are simply guessing your password and breaking into your network, therefore making a strong one that is hard to guess will help you prevent the attack.
A good tip is to use passwords with more than 10 characters, as this makes them harder to break. Additionally, avoid using personal information such as your name, birth date, or city in your passwords. While these may be easy for you to remember, they also make it easier for attackers to gain access. Moreover, make sure that each of your accounts has unique passwords and stop reusing the same.
Limit Login attempts
Most websites run on WordPress allow unlimited login attempts. You can utilize a plugin to restrict the number of login attempts allowed on your site to help prevent brute force attacks. Once the limit is reached, the account can be temporarily locked or further verification can be required, making it more challenging for attackers to guess the password.
Set up two-factor authentication
How to prevent brute force attack? Two-factor authentication is one of the best methods.
Through implementing it, you are adding an extra layer of verification, where once you enter your password, a code is sent to the mobile device or generated by an authentication app. Even if hackers successfully guess the password, this method makes it much harder for them to gain access.
If login attempts are made from unrecognized devices or locations, users receive alerts, allowing them to take immediate action. Overall, 2-factor Authentication discourages attackers from attempting brute force attacks, as their chances of success are significantly reduced.
Use CAPTCHAS
During the login process, using CAPTCHAs helps distinguish between human users and automated bots. These require users to complete a CAPTCHA challenge, which prevents automated tools from continuously attempting login combinations, thereby thwarting brute force attacks.
Passwordless Authentication
Passwordless authentication is an innovative way if you want to know how to stop a brute force attack. The risk of falling victim to phishing schemes that trick individuals into revealing their credentials is minimized if you don’t use passwords.
This method verifies an individual’s identity, like fingerprints or facial recognition, instead of relying on passwords. Magic links are sent to a registered email address, or passkeys generated through secure authentication apps.
How to Enhance Your Security Further?
You can further enhance your security by collaborating with experts in the field. Engaging professionals provides you with ongoing support and guidance, ensuring that you effectively integrate safe practices into your systems.
WP Enchant specializes in WordPress security and offers a range of services designed to protect your website from threats. Our team conducts thorough security audits to identify vulnerabilities and recommend tailored solutions.
- WP Enchant offers advanced malware protection to safeguard your website from threats and vulnerabilities.
- We provide care plans that cover various aspects of website security, ensuring that your site remains secure and up-to-date.
- With 24/7 Support, WP Enchant is always available to assist you with any security concerns or issues that may arise.
- Our pricing structure is clear and upfront, so you know exactly what you’re paying for without any hidden fees or surprises.
