Be Alert: Cybercriminals Are Logging In, Not Forcing Their Way In

Cybercriminals are shifting tactics when targeting small businesses. Rather than forcing their way in, they’re quietly walking through the front door — using stolen usernames and passwords.

This method, known as an identity-based attack, has become one of the most common entry points for hackers. They capture credentials through phishing emails, deceptive login pages, or by bombarding users with nonstop authentication prompts until someone gives in. And unfortunately, these tactics are proving highly effective.

According to a recent report from a leading cybersecurity firm, stolen login credentials were behind 67% of major security incidents in 2024. Even large corporations like MGM and Caesars fell victim to these types of breaches last year — a clear sign that if it can happen to them, smaller businesses are just as vulnerable, if not more so.

How Do Hackers Gain Access?

Many of these breaches begin with something basic — a compromised password. But cybercriminals are getting more sophisticated in how they pull it off:

• SIM swap scams allow attackers to intercept text messages used for two-factor authentication.
• MFA fatigue tactics bombard users with nonstop approval prompts until one gets mistakenly accepted.
• Phishing emails and bogus login screens fool employees into giving up their credentials.

Hackers are also targeting personal devices used by employees and external vendors such as your help desk or call center to find a way into your systems.

Protecting Your Business: What You Can Do

The upside? You don’t need to be an tech expert to keep your business safe. Taking a few well-planned actions can make a big difference:

1. Adopt Strong Passwords or Eliminate Them
   Encourage employees to use a password manager for stronger, more secure passwords. Even better, implement passwordless solutions like fingerprint authentication or hardware security keys.
2. Educate Your Team
   Your team is your first line of defense. If they can’t recognize phishing attempts or other malicious tactics, your security is at risk. Train them to identify suspicious emails, fake links, and where to report issues.
3. Enable Multifactor Authentication (MFA)
   MFA adds an extra layer of security to your logins. Make sure you’re using the most secure options: app-based or hardware key MFA offers better protection than SMS-based methods.
4. Control Access
   Grant employees access only to the resources they need. Limiting permissions reduces the damage hackers can do if they manage to breach an account.

The Takeaway

Hackers are after your login credentials, and they’re getting more creative every day. Staying ahead of them doesn’t mean doing it all alone.

We’re here to help. Our team can guide you in putting the right safeguards in place to protect your business — without complicating things for your employees.

Curious if your business is at risk? Let’s talk. Book a discovery call here.