Password spraying is a complex type of cyberattack that uses weak passwords to get into multiple user accounts without permission. Using the same password or a list of passwords that are often used on multiple accounts is what this method is all about. The goal is to get around common security measures like account lockouts.

Attacks that use a lot of passwords are very successful because they target the weakest link in cybersecurity—people and how they manage their passwords. This piece will explain how password spraying works, talk about how it’s different from other brute-force attacks, and look at ways to find and stop it. We will also look at cases from real life and discuss how businesses can protect themselves from these threats.

What Is Password Spraying and How Does It Work?

 

A brute-force attack called “password spraying” tries to get into multiple accounts with the same password. Attackers can avoid account shutdown policies with this method. These policies are usually put in place to stop brute-force attacks that try to access a single account with multiple passwords. For password spraying to work, a lot of people need to use weak passwords that are easy to figure out.

Attackers often get lists of usernames from public directories or past data leaks. They then use the same passwords to try to log in to all of these accounts. Usually, the process is automated so it can quickly test all possible username-password pairs.

The attackers’ plan is to pick a small group of common passwords that some users in the target company are likely to use. These passwords are often from public lists or based on group details like the company name or location. By using the same password across accounts, attackers lower their risk of lockouts while boosting their success rate.

Password spraying attacks often go undetected because they don’t create as much noise as traditional brute-force attacks. Since only one password is used at a time, it might not trigger alerts. But if left unchecked, the impact across multiple accounts can be devastating.

Password spraying has become a popular tactic—even among state-sponsored attackers—because it’s easy to execute and bypasses many traditional defenses. As cybersecurity evolves, understanding and countering this tactic becomes critical.

In the next section, we’ll explore how password spraying differs from other types of cyberattacks and outline strategies for detecting it.

How Does Password Spraying Differ from Other Cyberattacks?

 

Password spraying is distinct from other brute-force attacks in its approach and execution. While traditional brute-force attacks try many passwords against a single account, password spraying uses a single password across many accounts. This helps attackers dodge lockout protections meant to stop rapid login attempts.

Understanding Brute-Force Attacks

 

Brute-force attacks systematically try all possible password combinations to break into an account. They’re resource-heavy and noisy, often setting off alarms due to their high volume of attempts on one account.

Comparing Credential Stuffing

Credential stuffing uses previously stolen username-password combos to try logging in across different sites. Unlike password spraying, it doesn’t guess—it reuses compromised credentials.

The Stealthy Nature of Password Spraying

Password spraying attacks are stealthier than traditional brute-force attacks because they spread attempts across many accounts, making them harder to detect. That stealth is what makes them so dangerous—they often go unnoticed until serious damage is done.

Next, let’s talk about how organizations can detect and prevent these attacks before they escalate.

How Can Organizations Detect and Prevent Password Spraying Attacks?

 

Detecting password spraying takes proactive monitoring and analytics. Companies must deploy strong security practices like tracking unusual login behavior, setting thresholds for failed logins, and using tools that can recognize patterns linked to spraying attempts.

Implementing Strong Password Policies

 

Enforcing strong, unique passwords is critical in stopping password spraying attacks. Require long, complex, regularly updated passwords, and support users with password manager tools for safe storage.

Deploying Multi-Factor Authentication

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) blocks most unauthorized access attempts by adding extra verification steps. It’s one of the most effective defenses against password spraying and should be mandatory—especially for sensitive accounts.

Conducting Regular Security Audits

Frequent audits of authentication logs and security configurations can uncover weak points. Security teams should look for login trends and unusual behavior that automated systems might overlook.

Let’s now review additional protective strategies beyond passwords and MFA.

What Additional Measures Can Be Taken to Enhance Security?

 

Beyond enforcing password rules and enabling MFA, organizations can strengthen their defenses by detecting login anomalies, training users, and building strong response plans.

Enhancing Login Detection

 

Set up systems to catch login attempts to multiple accounts from the same IP or device within a short time. Balance lockout rules with usability, but ensure they’re effective against password spraying attempts.

Educating Users

User training is a frontline defense. Help employees understand the risks of weak passwords, the importance of MFA, and how to spot suspicious login behavior. Regular training builds long-term awareness.

Incident Response Planning

Be ready to act fast. A well-documented incident response plan should cover alerting users, forcing password resets, locking down breached accounts, and conducting forensic analysis.

Taking Action Against Password Spraying

 

Password spraying is a serious cyber threat that thrives on poor password hygiene. Strong passwords, multi-factor authentication, monitoring, and education are your best defense. With the right security measures in place, businesses can protect their systems and data from these evolving attacks.

If you’re looking to improve your cybersecurity posture and defend against password spraying, we can help. Contact us today for expert guidance tailored to your organization’s unique needs.

Contact us today.

Edge Technology Consulting, LLC

Phone:  (614) 823-8050/(614) 823-8051

Email:  info@edge-technology.com

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This article has been republished with permission from The Technology Press.