A brute force attack is a trial-and-error method to crack passwords and encryption keys. Learn how hackers launch these attacks and ways to prevent them.

As technology continues to evolve at pace, brute force attacks have become one of the most common cyber threats facing organisations and individuals. This attack method relies on repeatedly guessing usernames and passwords until the correct credentials are found, often using automated tools capable of testing thousands of combinations in seconds. Without the right security controls in place, brute force attacks can lead to serious data breaches, financial loss, and reputational damage.

What is a Brute Force Attack?

A brute force attack is a cyber attack technique used by hackers to gain unauthorised access to systems, applications, or online accounts. By systematically attempting multiple username and password combinations, attackers aim to bypass authentication controls. These attacks are frequently automated, making weak passwords and poor security hygiene particularly vulnerable.

Understanding how brute force attacks work is the first step in protecting your organisation. Below, we outline what attackers gain from these attacks and the most effective ways to reduce your risk.

What Do Hackers Gain from Brute Force Attacks?

Stealing Sensitive Data
One of the primary motivations behind brute force attacks is access to sensitive data, including personal details, login credentials, and financial information. This data can be used for identity theft, fraud, or sold on the dark web.

Exploiting Networks
Once an account is compromised, attackers can move laterally across a network. This often allows them to access additional systems, escalate privileges, and cause wider organisational breaches.

Delivering Malware
Brute force attacks are frequently used as a gateway to deploy malware. Malware can harvest data, spy on users, or disrupt entire networks, significantly increasing the impact of the initial breach.

Common Types of Brute Force Attacks

Simple Brute Force Attacks
Attackers attempt every possible username and password combination until access is granted. While basic, this method remains effective against weak passwords.

Dictionary Attacks
Rather than testing random combinations, dictionary attacks use lists of commonly used passwords and phrases, increasing the likelihood of success.

Hybrid Brute Force Attacks
This approach combines dictionary words with numbers and symbols, making it more effective against passwords that follow predictable patterns.

Credential Stuffing
Credential stuffing involves using stolen login credentials from previous data breaches to attempt access across multiple websites and platforms.

Reverse Brute Force Attacks
Instead of guessing passwords, attackers start with a known password and attempt to match it against multiple usernames, often obtained from public or breached data.

Tips to Avoid Brute Force Attacks

Use Strong Passwords
Strong passwords are one of the most effective defences against brute force attacks. Use a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters, and avoid personal or commonly used words.

Enable Two-Factor Authentication
Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of protection by requiring an additional verification step, such as a one-time code sent to a mobile device, even if a password is compromised.

Limit Login Attempts
Restricting the number of failed login attempts significantly reduces the effectiveness of automated brute force tools by locking accounts after repeated failures.

Keep Software and Security Tools Updated
Outdated systems often contain vulnerabilities that attackers exploit. Regular updates and patches help close security gaps and reduce exposure to attacks.

Be Vigilant Against Phishing Attempts
Phishing emails are often used alongside brute force attacks to trick users into revealing login credentials. Always verify email sources, avoid clicking suspicious links, and ensure websites are secure before entering sensitive information.

By implementing these preventative measures, organisations can significantly reduce their exposure to brute force attacks and strengthen their overall cyber security posture.

Learn More About MetaCompliance Solutions

Preventing brute force attacks requires more than strong passwords alone. Building cyber resilience means addressing human risk, improving awareness, and gaining visibility into user behaviour. MetaCompliance supports organisations in reducing the risk of credential-based attacks through targeted training, advanced simulations, and actionable insights.

Our Human Risk Management Platform brings together the tools you need to protect your organisation, including:

To discover how MetaCompliance can help protect against brute force attacks and strengthen your organisation’s security posture, contact us today to book a demo.

FAQs about Brute Force Attacks

What is a brute force attack in cyber security?

A brute force attack is a method where attackers repeatedly guess login credentials until they gain access to an account or system.