Password Protection 2.0: How to Create and Keep Your Passwords Safe

Understanding Password Attacks and Security

1. Brute Force Attacks: This method is time-consuming and only occasionally successful. Attackers use specialized brute force password cracking software such as Burp Suite, THC-Hydra, and AirCrack to automate the generation and testing of countless password combinations. Additionally, Graphic Processing Units (GPU) acceleration and distributed computing systems are often employed to speed up the process. 
2. Dictionary Attacks: Attackers utilize dictionary files containing millions of words that are repeatedly tried against multiple accounts. In dictionary attacks, attackers have been known to use software such as Hashcat, John The Ripper, or CrackStation to guess the target’s password. However, breaking into an account protected by a robust 16-digit password containing various special characters and numbers would pose an almost insurmountable challenge for conventional computers. The advent of quantum computers, on the other hand, might alter this equation.
3. Rainbow Table Attacks: Rainbow table attacks are used to crack encrypted or hashed passwords. Rainbow tables are precomputed lists of hashed passwords and their corresponding plaintext forms, used to rapidly decrypt hashed passwords. RainbowCrack and Ophcrack are tools that automate the process.If a match is found, the original password is revealed.
4. Phishing Attacks: Phishing attacks trick users into revealing their passwords through deceptive emails, websites, or messages. Attackers craft convincing fake websites or emails that closely mimic legitimate ones, aiming to steal login credentials when users enter them. Timing is also a factor, with attacks often synchronized with current events for added credibility and effectiveness. Attackers may cast a wide net by sending mass emails, or target individuals or organizations based on their potential value. 
5. Social Engineering Attacks: These attacks rely on psychological manipulation, such as impersonating trusted entities and conducting persuasive phone calls to gain the trust of the target. Attackers often use a pretext, a fabricated reason or scenario, to engage with the target, such as posing as an IT technician or a manager requesting sensitive information.
6. Keylogging Attacks: Keyloggers are hardware devices or malware programs that capture keystrokes, including passwords, without the user’s knowledge. Typically, keylogger software must be delivered to the victim’s device, often through malicious email attachments, infected software downloads, or compromised websites. It is important to be cautious about the sources of software installations, as attackers often use remote access tools, such as RATs (Remote Access Trojans), to monitor and retrieve recorded data. 
7. Credential Stuffing Attacks: Credential stuffing exploits the habit of users reusing passwords across multiple online services and involves using username and password combinations acquired from data breaches or the dark web. Successful breaches can happen within minutes or seconds, depending on the target’s security measures and the volume of attempts. Typically, attackers tend to target services with weak security measures to limit login attempts or detect unusual activity.
8. Man-in-the-Middle Attacks (MITM): Attackers position themselves between the user and the target server, intercepting data and potentially altering or capturing login credentials and other sensitive information as they pass through the network. MITM attacks involve the use of specialized software tools that facilitate traffic interception, such as Wireshark, ettercap, or tools for setting up rogue access points (such as on an unsecured Wi-Fi network). Password attacks, whether they employ brute force, social engineering, or other methods, exploit specific vulnerabilities. These attacks are not isolated incidents; instead, they depend on the convergence of the following success-critical elements. 

Key Factors for a Successful Password Attack

1. Password Weakness and Predictability: Easy-to-guess passwords or those based on common patterns are more vulnerable than a robust 16-digit password containing various special characters and numbers.
2. Computing Power and Speed: The attacker’s system capabilities influence the speed of password attempts. For instance, a powerful system allows quicker execution of brute force or dictionary attacks.
3. Size and Quality of Dictionary File: A comprehensive dictionary file increases the chances of success in dictionary attacks.
4. Attacker’s Determination and Patience: Persistent attackers willing to invest time have higher probabilities of success, especially through prolonged methods like brute force.
5. Target’s Account Lockout Policies: If a system has lenient lockout policies, attackers can make multiple attempts without being significantly hindered.
6. Size of the Rainbow Table: For hashed passwords, a larger rainbow table enhances the chances of finding matches.
7. Strength of Password Hashing Method: Strong hashing methods pose a greater challenge for attackers, as they require more computational effort to crack.
8. Uniqueness of the Salt: A unique salt adds complexity to hashed passwords, making them harder to crack, especially when it’s unpredictable.
9. Weak or Out-of-Date Antivirus/Anti-Malware: Outdated or ineffective security software provides less resistance against malware, including keyloggers and password-stealing threats.
10. Unencrypted Communication Channels: Insecure communication channels expose passwords during transmission, allowing attackers to intercept and compromise them. 

Password Protection Checklist

1. Form complex, long, and memorable passphrases with a mix of alpha-numeric and special characters.
2. Consider unconventional techniques, like misspelled words or reversed spellings for extra security.
3. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for accounts whenever possible.
4. Employ hardware tokens for sensitive accounts, while ensuring tokens are physically secure.
5. Use a reliable password manager with a long and strong master passphrase.
6. Utilize biometric authentication methods while ensuring the secure storage of biometric data.
7. Regularly review account-related emails and notifications promptly to prevent unauthorized access.
8. Customize security questions with memorable but false information, avoiding common and easily researched questions
9.  Implement account lockout policies to protect users by temporarily suspending access after multiple failed login attempts.
10. Avoid using personal information in passwords, such as children’s names or birthdates. 
11. Never use default passwords or share passwords, even with friends or colleagues. 
12. Do not allow web browsers to save or autofill passwords. 
13. Always lock your devices and never leave them unattended in public, regardless of password strength.
14. Diversify passwords for increased security.  Avoid using the same password for multiple accounts. 
15. Understand account recovery procedures and regularly review and update stored passwords, especially for critical accounts.
16. When feasible, periodically change passwords for high-value accounts to maintain security. 
17. Use up-to-date software, especially antivirus and anti-malware and enable firewalls.
18. For advanced security, use salted and iteratively hashed passwords.
19. Practice caution with email attachments and downloads. Be up to date about the latest phishing techniques and scams.
20. Never share credentials in response to email requests. 
21. Always verify the sender’s email address and log in directly to websites such as Facebook or Instagram, not through email links.