NYC IT Consulting Firm: Smarter Ways to Stop Credential Theft

In the new digital-first era, data protection is not just a priority but rather a necessity. It is not just for competitive edge but a matter of business survival in a time of innovative competition. However, with the use of technology also comes the rise in cyber threats. Among these, credential theft has become one of the most significant issues for businesses. Phishing scams, malware, and brute-force attacks are only some of the types of attacks that cyber crooks implement in order to steal login credentials and access sensitive systems. As such, NYC IT consulting and services providers continuously stress the importance of having a robust cybersecurity system in place. 

NYC IT Consulting Firm: Smarter Ways to Stop Credential Theft

How Credential Theft Happens 

In a recent study, more than three-quarters of breaches are by means of stolen credentials. An NYC IT consulting firm explains that the majority of cyberattacks begin with something as basic as a hacked password. Hence, resulting in loss of money, time, and a broken reputation. Here at EB Solution, we ensure to emphasize to our clients that passwords are no longer sufficient. The new threats require a new defense which begins with high-end authentication and powerful user awareness. 

The theft of credentials does not occur immediately. It is a deliberate, calculated, slow, and accurate procedure. In this process, the attackers collect data, identify vulnerabilities, and wait before the appropriate moment to attack.  

Common Methods Used Today

Cyber criminals use one or more methods to acquire login information. Once they obtain credentials, they can navigate systems without being noticed, stealing data, or installing ransomware. Some of the ways they steal usernames and passwords include: 

Phishing emails 

The attacker uses a link or a page with fake links that cause a user to input passwords. 

Keylogging malware 

Monitors all keystrokes to obtain logins without being detected. 

Credential stuffing 

Recycles other breach credentials. 

Man-in-the-middle (MitM) attacks 

Capture data in unprotected networks. 

Why Passwords Alone Aren’t Enough 

The old way of logging in uses usernames and passwords only. However, over time, the use of passwords has become the weakest link. This is because the majority of users either use the same password, generate guessable passwords, or become victims of phishing. Because of this, hackers take advantage of this habit of humans. Hence, performing brute force attacks or stealing lists to automate their login attempts. As such, one bad password will unleash whole networks. This is why NYC IT consulting and cybersecurity experts emphasize that the new era of keeping your system safe requires more than the use of a reliable password manager.  

Additional and Advanced Protection for Business Logins 

Multi-layered protections are necessary to perform credential theft protection. The following are ways that your business can enhance its security posture.  

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) 

An additional protection is provided by MFA. With this, users are required to identify themselves with two or more factors- a password and a second factor. This can come in forms of a code sent to a mobile device, biometrics through fingerprint or face scan, or a hardware token. Because of this, MFA prevents unauthorized access even in the case that passwords are stolen. Additionally, hardware or app-based authenticators are the most suitable for high-value accounts. 

Passwordless Authentication 

The future is shifting to no passwords. The passwordless systems are quicker and more secure, and the threats associated with troubled or shared credentials are minimized. Moreover, passwordless logins enhance the user experience and remove the most frequent access point for attackers. Common easy to do this include: 

• Biometrics: Fingerprints or facial identification.
• Single Sign-On (SSO): A single secure login is accepted by more than one platform.
• Push notifications: Use mobile prompts to approve or deny entry.

Anomaly Detection and Behavioral Analytics 

AI-powered systems are now tracking the patterns of the logins to identify suspicious behavior. These tools can automatically block and identify suspicious activity that can be from new device or region logins, unusual access times, or repeated failed attempts.  

Zero Trust Security 

The Zero Trust model is based on one simple rule: never trust, always verify. It categorizes all users and devices as potential risks until they are confirmed. NYC IT consulting firms suggest this as all access requests are examined through identity, device health, and context. Hence, excluding unauthorized access to networks even when credentials are compromised. Moreover, Zero Trust establishes a zero-trust culture in which verification is never ceased.  

Strengthening the Human Firewall 

Technology is not sufficient to prevent all breaches. Employees are very important in safeguarding business credentials. Human error is unfortunately the leading cause of breaches of data. Therefore, to eliminate that gap, your team needs to be trained on how to detect phishing and social engineering. Additionally, they must take advantage of password managers to create unique passwords. The dangers of reusing logins and skipping MFA must also be emphasized. Security awareness training will enable your people to be your ultimate defense.  

Preparing for the Inevitable by Staying One Step Ahead 

The reality is, credential theft was and will always remain a threat. Cybercriminals keep on changing, and companies have to keep up. The aim is not to ensure that there is no risk, but to reduce the effect by effective prevention and fast response.  

At EB Solution, we assist companies in developing additional protection against credential fraud. Our cybersecurity specialists come up with effective, scalable protection measures to secure logins, data, and reputation. 

Call us today to schedule your consultation!