Got hit by credential stuffing?

No use in denying it - you’re probably using the same password for multiple accounts.

No shame in that, the majority of the internet does the same (13% use the same password for EVERY account).

But that makes you a prime target for a sneaky cyberattack called credential stuffing.

What is credential stuffing (and why should you care)?

Imagine this: A hacker gets their hands on a list of stolen usernames and passwords from a data breach. They take those credentials and start trying them on different websites, hoping that some people (like you, maybe?) have reused passwords across multiple sites. If your email and password were leaked in a breach at, say, a random online shoe store, but you use that same combo for your business bank account or your email, voila - hackers just walked in through the front door.

Unlike brute force attacks, where hackers try a million password combinations to crack an account, credential stuffing is automated and efficient (like a cyber version of “copy-paste”).

Hackers use bots to test stolen login details across multiple websites. If they get lucky (and they often do), they can access sensitive business systems, financial accounts, or customer data.

You did it to yourself

Big corporations have entire security teams to fight these attacks. You? You have yourself, your coffee, and maybe a password notebook tucked away in a drawer. Here’s how small businesses unknowingly make themselves easy targets:

• Reusing passwords across multiple accounts: Your work email has the same password as your online store, PayPal, and Facebook? Bad idea.

• Not checking for data breaches: If your credentials were stolen in a past breach and you haven’t changed them, they’re probably being sold on the dark web right now.

• Lack of multi-factor authentication (MFA): If your business accounts don’t require a second step to log in (like a code sent to your phone), hackers can waltz right in once they have your password.

• Using weak or predictable passwords: “CompanyName123” isn’t cutting it. Neither is “Password2024.”

How to protect your business from credential stuffing attacks

Alright, let’s talk solutions. It’s not that hard

1. Use unique passwords for every account

   • “But I can’t remember all my passwords!” Yeah, no one can. That’s what password managers are for. Get one. Use it.

2. Enable multi-factor authentication

   • Even if hackers get your password, MFA makes sure they need a second form of verification (like a code on your phone) to log in.

3. Check if your credentials have been leaked

   • Visit haveibeenpwned.com and see if your email or passwords have been part of a data breach. If they have, change them.

4. Monitor login activity

   • Most platforms let you see recent login attempts. If you notice suspicious activity, take action: reset passwords and enable MFA.

5. Educate your team (even if it’s just you and your dog)

   • If you have employees, teach them the importance of good password hygiene. A single compromised login can put your whole business at risk.

Credential stuffing attacks work because people are creatures of habit. If you’re using the same old passwords across multiple accounts, you’re playing right into the hackers’ hands.

Now, go forth and secure your logins. And if you’re still using “password123,” I don’t know what to tell you. Just... don’t.ž

Until next time, stay safe!

• Sead from SmallBiz CyberWiz