How Cybercriminals Take Over Your Online Accounts and How to Protect Yourself -

Summary:
Account takeover (ATO) fraud is a growing threat as cybercriminals exploit online vulnerabilities, often using techniques like credential cracking and phishing to gain unauthorized access to accounts. Credential cracking relies on testing common passwords, while phishing deceives users into revealing their credentials through fake websites. Taking proactive steps, such as using strong, unique passwords and being cautious with suspicious messages, can help protect against ATO fraud.

With the rise of online activity, account takeover (ATO) fraud has become a significant risk, leading to potential financial and personal losses. As more of our information is accessible online, it’s essential to understand the methods cybercriminals use and ways to protect your online security. This guide explains ATO fraud, how it works, and the steps you can take to defend against it.

Common ATO Tactics

1. Credential Cracking: Cybercriminals use automated tools to try various password combinations until they find the correct one. This method, known as credential cracking, is especially effective when users rely on weak or common passwords.

2. Phishing: One of the most persistent techniques, phishing involves attackers impersonating legitimate organizations (like banks) to deceive users into sharing their login information. These messages often link to fake sites that mimic real ones to capture credentials.