What it is
Stolen credentials are acquired through phishing attacks, malware (such as keyloggers or infostealers), data breaches, or insecure storage practices. Once captured, credentials are often sold, shared, or immediately used to gain unauthorized access to systems, cloud services, VPNs, or SaaS platforms.
Why it matters
Credentials remain one of the most reliable ways for attackers to bypass security controls. Many breaches begin not with technical exploits, but with valid logins obtained illicitly. Stolen credentials allow attackers to move quietly, evade detection, and access sensitive systems as legitimate users.
How to reduce risk
- Enforce multi-factor authentication (MFA)
- Train users to recognize phishing attempts
- Monitor for leaked credentials across known breach sources
- Implement least-privilege access controls