Password Theft

Cory Cranfill • January 12, 2024

How Protected Is Your Business?

Security has been a concern with the internet since its inception. Anyone who remembers the early days of the internet will remember how easy it was to cause fairly significant trouble. Employees left passwords in plain sight. There wasn't anything in the way of certificates, computer identification, or anything else to ensure password safety. With these vulnerabilities, it inevitably results in password theft.

 

Back then, there was no such thing as a secure connection. Even the banking systems were incredibly vulnerable. Luckily, these cracks in the system didn’t result in many newsworthy meltdowns because there weren't enough tech-savvy criminals to take advantage of them. Modern-day hackers could have done a lot of damage back then.

Since then, we've seen some significant cases of password and identity theft. The PSN fiasco with Sony is a recent example. Thousands upon thousands of users had their credit card numbers, passwords, and personal information stolen and sold off by Chinese hackers. Yet this could have been entirely avoidable. Had Sony prioritized two-step authentication (2FA), and better security protocols it wouldn’t have happened.

That was an attack on servers, which is hard to pull off when the servers are set-up properly. It usually involves either a brute force attack into the servers or finding an unknown exploit in the back door. In other words, it requires either bashing the front door open or finding an unlocked window. Smart businesses make sure their front doors are strong and their windows are locked!

Most password and identity theft won't happen through this sort of invasion. Like a large city, the internet has its safer and more questionable neighborhoods. There are also neighborhoods nobody in their right mind should be going anywhere near. Let’s take a walk around these neighborhoods and point out some of the risks.

How Hackers Steal Passwords and Personal Information

To steal passwords and other valuable information, Phishing is one of the most common types of
cyberattacks. Hackers will send out emails containing malicious links to as many users as possible. That link takes users to a bogus, or spoofed site, and tricks them into giving out their private information.

Once hackers acquire this information, they will attempt to break into as many business and personal accounts as possible. And if they gain access to those accounts, it's only a matter of time before data is stolen or access to those accounts is lost.

SSL and HTTPS are security measures that provide certificate management to ensure foreign devices are not connecting to your account. They provide strong ciphers that prevent intercepted packets from being dismantled. It’s the equivalent of only allowing certain phones to dial into yours, and scrambling the voice on both ends so wiretaps can’t understand the conversation.

Unfortunately, people have the bad habit of accessing sensitive information over public Wi-Fi. Even with SSL enabled, public Wi-Fi can be very dangerous. Shady people can access your Wi-Fi transmissions without you knowing it. With enough hard work, they can collect your passwords, your personal information and even gain access to your devices. Once they're in, you are in a lot of trouble.

Another culprit is a lack of
strong security on your computer or laptop. Without Windows defender or a third-party equivalent running in strict mode, you may allow sneaky executables to run in the background. These can log keystrokes, spy on your browser, go through your cache, and much more.

Knowing the Neighborhood is Important

Your first line of defense as a user against password and identity theft is to ensure that you only enter passwords and personal information into websites with the proper security in place. 2FA logins are currently the safest way to log in. And second, never enter private information over public Wi-Fi. This warning goes for your phone too.

When using a
business device, you should avoid lesser-known sites, such as aggregate sites, fan-based websites, and other nonprofessional web sites. If you want to purchase something on noncommercial websites, make sure the exchange is through a safe, insured, and secure environment.

Finally, while at work, stay off the dark web entirely.

What If I am Compromised?

If you are compromised, report it to your IT department or
Managed Service Provider immediately. If possible, back-up your hard drives. Report your credit cards as stolen, and talk to your bank. Later on, if you see fraudulent transactions on your account, debit, or credit cards, contest them immediately.

Once you have your system backed up and running, go through all of your old accounts and change every password. You may also want to change your mobile phone number. Hackers can sell that information too.

In the end, identity theft and password theft are usually the user’s error in judgment. Most employees don’t learn proper security measures, and they’re too trusting. It is important to teach everyone in your office proper password hygiene and basic security protocol. They need to know the rules of safety on the internet, and not be trusting of unknown people they come in contact with.

Sadly, because of these threats, we do have to worry about security and privacy. Like any other innovation, the internet was a dangerous place upon arrival. It’s a game between hackers and our security forces. If you're smart, however, you can avoid these traps. Contact us today to ensure your data, passwords, and privacy are protected.

HCS Technical Services

A piggy bank sitting on a desk next to a broken piggy bank
July 3, 2025
In the realm of IT support, businesses often face a pivotal choice between two predominant service models: Predictable Flat Rate IT Services and Break Fix Support. Understanding the distinction between these models is crucial for any organization aiming to optimize their IT infrastructure while managing costs effectively. Predictable Flat Rate IT Services, often encapsulated under Managed IT Services, provide a subscription-based model where businesses pay a consistent monthly fee for comprehensive IT support. This model emphasizes proactive management of IT systems, aiming to prevent issues before they arise and ensuring seamless operation of digital infrastructure. Conversely, Break Fix Support operates on a reactive approach. Businesses engage IT services only when problems occur, paying for each service on an ad-hoc basis. This method can lead to fluctuating costs and a general unpredictability in budgeting for IT expenses. As companies grow increasingly reliant on technology for operations, understanding these differences helps in evaluating which approach aligns with their long-term strategic goals, risk tolerance, and budget constraints.
A man in a hoodie is touching a screen that says multi-factor authentication 2025
July 1, 2025
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) has long been heralded as a robust line of defense against unauthorized access. By requiring users to provide multiple forms of verification, MFA significantly raises the bar for attackers. However, as technology advances, so too do the methods employed by cybercriminals. In 2025, hackers have developed more sophisticated techniques to bypass MFA systems, exploiting human error and technical vulnerabilities alike. While MFA relies on something you know (such as a password), something you have (like a phone or token), and something you are (biometric verification), hackers have found new ways to intercept these factors through phishing, social engineering, and advanced malware. As businesses and individuals become more reliant on digital interactions, the need for an evolving strategy to combat these threats is more pressing than ever. Recognizing the limitations of current MFA implementations and understanding the strategies employed by attackers is essential in developing new defenses that can withstand this relentless onslaught.
A desk with a laptop and a cup of coffee on it
June 26, 2025
The cloud-native approach represents a significant shift in how businesses develop, deploy, and manage applications. It leverages the full benefits of cloud computing, offering scalability, resilience, and flexibility. For businesses considering this transition, it's crucial to understand the core aspects of being cloud-native. This involves adopting microservices architecture, which breaks down applications into small, independent services that communicate over networks. Each service can be developed, deployed, and scaled independently, enabling businesses to build and deploy applications more efficiently. The cloud-native approach also includes utilizing containers, like Docker, to package these microservices and ensure consistency across multiple development and production environments. Additionally, cloud-native embraces infrastructure as code (IaC) practices, automating the provisioning and management of IT infrastructure using code. These elements combine to create an agile development environment that supports rapid innovation and consistent delivery of services. The transition requires significant changes not only to the technology stack but also to organizational processes and culture. Businesses need to be prepared to adopt continuous integration/continuous delivery (CI/CD) pipelines, DevOps practices, and a shift towards agility in both development and operations to fully realize the benefits of a cloud-native strategy.
A judge 's gavel with a shield on it is sitting on a table.
June 24, 2025
As we navigate through the digital age, data privacy laws are evolving to address the complexities and advancements within technology sectors across the globe. Understanding these changes is imperative for any business aiming to thrive in today’s data-driven marketplace. New regulations such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the European Union and the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) in the United States set the standard for how personal data should be handled, offering individuals greater control over their personal information. These laws mandate transparency in how companies collect, store, and use data, emphasizing consent and the right to access personal information. As these regulations continue to expand and adapt, businesses worldwide must ensure compliance to avoid hefty fines and reputational damage. Understanding and implementing these laws requires a thorough examination of current data handling practices and restructuring them to align with new legal standards. Recognizing the global impact of data privacy regulations highlights the need for businesses to prioritize cybersecurity strategies to protect not only their assets but also their clients’ trust and confidence.
A group of people are sitting around a table using microsoft teams
June 19, 2025
In the world of digital collaboration, Microsoft Teams stands out as a robust platform that many businesses rely on for seamless communication and teamwork. However, the extent of Microsoft Teams’ capabilities often remains underutilized, with many users familiar only with its basic chat and meeting functions. Unlocking the full potential of Microsoft Teams can significantly elevate your team’s productivity. From file sharing and real-time document editing to integration with other Microsoft 365 apps, Microsoft Teams offers a plethora of features designed to enhance collaboration. Yet, beyond these well-known features, there are numerous lesser-known tools that can streamline workflows and foster a more cohesive digital work environment. Understanding and leveraging these untapped features can make a profound difference in how teams operate, leading to more efficient processes, better project management, and ultimately, successful outcomes. By delving deeper into Microsoft Teams’ capabilities, businesses can foster a culture of innovation and responsiveness that is essential in today’s fast-paced business environment.
A desk with a laptop and a piece of paper on it
June 17, 2025
At HCS Technical Services, we focus on helping your business build a strong defense against cyber threats. However, we also understand that even the most robust security measures can sometimes be breached. That's why we want to shed light on the increasingly vital role of cybersecurity insurance in a comprehensive risk management strategy.
A computer screen with the word security written on it
June 17, 2025
In today's digital age, running a business in San Marcos means more than just serving your customers and managing your operations. It also means navigating an increasingly complex landscape of cyber threats. We often talk about firewalls, antivirus, and incident response, but there's a foundational element that's often overlooked, yet absolutely critical: your Cybersecurity Policy.
A computer is surrounded by a bunch of icons on a blue background.
June 17, 2025
In today's digital landscape, the news is constantly filled with stories of cyberattacks, data breaches, and system outages. For many small to medium-sized businesses in San Marcos, these headlines can feel distant, like something that only happens to massive corporations. But the reality is, no business is immune to IT incidents. From a simple hardware failure to a sophisticated ransomware attack, disruptions are a matter of when, not if.
A group of people are working on laptops and tablets.
June 17, 2025
In the evolving business landscape, the concept of a mobile workforce has transitioned from a novelty to a necessity. With advancements in technology enabling employees to work from virtually anywhere, businesses are presented with an opportunity to expand their reach, increase productivity, and enhance employee satisfaction. However, this transition requires more than just providing laptops and internet connections. Businesses must invest in robust IT infrastructure that supports seamless connectivity, collaboration, and communication regardless of geographical constraints. At HCS Technical Services, we understand the importance of equipping your mobile workforce with the tools they need to succeed. The key to empowering employees lies in leveraging secure, reliable technology that ensures continuity and efficiency. This involves implementing secure cloud solutions, VoIP systems, and mobile device management, which can support remote work environments effectively. By doing so, businesses can maintain a steadfast focus on core operations while promoting a flexible work culture that attracts and retains top talent.
An illustration of a building and a room with a padlock in the middle.
June 12, 2025
The modern workspace is undergoing a transformation with the rise of hybrid work environments, where employees split their time between the office and remote locations. This new model provides flexibility but also introduces unique security challenges. Traditional office-bound IT infrastructures are now supplemented with home networks and mobile devices, increasing the potential for security vulnerabilities and data breaches. As companies adapt to this shift, it is crucial to reassess security strategies to cover every possible point of vulnerability. Securing your company's data in this mixed environment involves not only robust technological solutions but also creating a culture of security awareness amongst employees. The necessity for secure access protocols, data encryption, and continuous monitoring becomes imperative as businesses navigate this dual workplace structure. By understanding the intricacies of hybrid work environments, organizations can begin to delineate clear policies and invest in technologies that protect sensitive information irrespective of where employees choose to work, ensuring comprehensive data security across all settings.
More Posts