🎯 What is Credential Stuffing?
Credential stuffing is when hackers use stolen usernames and passwords from one website to break into other accounts.
For example, if your Netflix login details were leaked, hackers might try the same username/password on your Gmail, Amazon, or PayPal accounts.
Why does this work? Most people reuse passwords across multiple sites. Hackers exploit this habit!
🔍 How Does Credential Stuffing Work? (4 Simple Steps)
- Hackers Buy Leaked Data: They purchase stolen login details from the dark web (often from data breaches).
- Bots Take Over: Hackers use automated tools (bots) to test these credentials on hundreds of websites.
- Success!: If your password is reused, hackers gain access.
- Profit: They steal money, data, or sell your account access.
🤔 Credential Stuffing vs. Brute Force Attacks
| Credential Stuffing | Brute Force Attacks |
|---|---|
| Uses real stolen passwords | Guesses passwords randomly |
| Targets password reuse | Targets weak passwords (e.g., “password123”) |
| Fast (thanks to bots!) | Slow (trial and error) |
💥 Real-World Examples
- Zoom (2020): Over 500,000 Zoom accounts were sold on the dark web—hackers used these to attack other platforms.
- Nintendo: 300,000 accounts breached via reused passwords.
🛡️ How to Protect Yourself
- Use a Password Manager: Create unique passwords for every site.
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Adds an extra security layer (e.g., SMS or app codes).
- Monitor Your Accounts: Tools like Have I Been Pwned alert you about data breaches.
- Never Reuse Passwords!
🏢 How Organizations Can Prevent Credential Stuffing
- Block Bots: Use CAPTCHA or rate-limiting tools.
- Require 2FA: For all users.
- Monitor for Breaches: Alert users if their data is leaked.
❓ FAQ
Q: Can credential stuffing be stopped completely?
A: No, but strong passwords and 2FA reduce risk by 99%.
Q: Is credential stuffing illegal?
A: Yes! It’s a cybercrime with serious penalties.
✅ Key Takeaways
- Credential stuffing = Hackers reuse stolen passwords.
- Fix it: Use unique passwords + 2FA.
- Organizations must block bots and enforce security policies.