What is credential harvesting?

Credential harvesting, synonymous with phishing, is a tactic cybercriminals use to obtain confidential data. Primarily, it targets information such as usernames, passwords, financial information, and other sensitive data. It uses deceptive techniques to deceive individuals into revealing their credentials unwittingly.

Related: What is a phishing attack?

How does credential harvesting work?

Cybercriminals use various techniques to gather these credentials to gain unauthorized access to accounts, systems, or networks. This information can be exploited for financial gain, identity theft, or other malicious activities.

Methods of credential harvesting

• Phishing: Cybercriminals create fake websites or emails that mimic legitimate ones to trick users into providing their login credentials. Phishing emails often contain links to malicious websites that closely resemble the authentic login pages of banks, email providers, or other online services.
• Keylogging: Malicious software (keyloggers) is installed on a victim's device to record keystrokes, capturing login credentials as the user types them.
• Man-in-the-middle attacks (MITM): In these attacks, an attacker intercepts communication between two parties, often without their knowledge. This can involve eavesdropping on Wi-Fi networks or manipulating network traffic to capture login credentials.
• Credential skimming: This involves using malicious code to capture and transmit data from online forms, such as login pages or payment forms, without the user's knowledge.
• Brute force attacks: Attackers systematically try all possible combinations of usernames and passwords until they find the correct credentials. This method is automated and relies on the vulnerability of weak or easily guessable passwords.

Guarding against credential harvesting

Safeguarding against credential harvesting requires a multi-layered approach, combining awareness, proactive measures, and technological solutions:

Heightened awareness

• Education: Individuals must be educated about phishing tactics, emphasizing scrutiny before divulging credentials or clicking on links in unsolicited emails.
• Verification: Always verify the authenticity of emails, websites, and requests for sensitive information before responding or taking any action.
  
  

Implementing security measures

• Multi-factor authentication (MFA): Enable MFA wherever possible to add an extra layer of security to your accounts.
• Secure passwords: Use strong, unique passwords and refrain from using the same credentials across multiple platforms.
• Email filters and firewalls: Employ robust email filters and firewalls to detect and block suspicious activities.

See also: HIPAA Compliant Email: The Definitive Guide

Regular updates and backups

• Software updates: Keep all software, including operating systems and antivirus programs, updated to patch vulnerabilities.
• Data backup: Regularly back up critical data to mitigate the impact of a potential breach.
  
  

Cybersecurity tools

• Antivirus and anti-malware software: Install reputable antivirus and anti-malware software to detect and neutralize threats.
• Phishing simulations: Conduct phishing simulations to train employees in recognizing and handling potential threats effectively.

Related: Why anti-phishing training isn’t enough