What is Credential Stuffing?

Credential stuffing is a prevalent cyberattack technique where attackers use lists of stolen usernames and passwords from database breaches to gain unauthorized access to user accounts by exploiting the common practice of password reuse. Unlike traditional brute force attacks, credential stuffing leverages automated scripts and botnets to systematically attempt logins across multiple accounts at a rapid pace, significantly increasing the success rate of account takeovers. To protect against credential stuffing, users are advised to employ unique, strong passwords for each account, use password management tools for secure storage and generation of passwords, enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) for an added layer of security, and implement measures like Captcha to deter automated login attempts. Vigilant monitoring for unusual account activity is also crucial in mitigating the risks associated with these attacks, highlighting the importance of robust digital security practices in safeguarding personal and organizational data.