Hooded figure holding glowing key labeled stolen credentials trying to unlock digital door with padlock symbol.

Watch Out: Hackers Are Logging In – Not Breaking In

August 04, 2025

Cybercriminals are evolving their tactics to target small businesses—not by force, but by quietly slipping in with stolen credentials like your login details.

Known as identity-based attacks, this method has become the leading strategy hackers use to breach systems. They steal passwords, deceive employees with convincing phishing emails, or bombard users with login prompts until someone unwittingly grants access. Sadly, these tactics are proving highly effective.

According to a recent cybersecurity report, 67% of major security breaches in 2024 originated from compromised login credentials. High-profile companies such as MGM and Caesars faced these attacks the year prior—if they're vulnerable, so is your small business.

How Are Hackers Gaining Access?

Most attacks begin with a single stolen password, but hackers now employ increasingly sophisticated methods:

  • Phishing emails and fake login pages that trick employees into revealing their credentials.
  • SIM swapping to intercept text messages used for two-factor authentication (2FA).
  • MFA fatigue attacks that flood your phone with login requests until you accidentally approve one.

They also exploit vulnerabilities in personal employee devices and third-party vendors like help desks or call centers to find entry points.

Essential Steps to Safeguard Your Business

The good news? You don't need advanced tech skills to strengthen your defenses. Implementing a few key measures can dramatically reduce your risk:

  1. Enable Multifactor Authentication (MFA)
    Use MFA as a critical second layer of security. Opt for app-based or hardware security key MFA rather than text message codes for stronger protection.
  2. Educate Your Team
    Train employees to identify phishing scams and suspicious login requests, and ensure they know how to report these threats promptly.
  3. Restrict Access
    Grant employees only the permissions necessary for their roles. Limiting access minimizes damage if an account is compromised.
  4. Adopt Strong Password Practices or Passwordless Solutions
    Encourage using password managers or transitioning to biometric logins and security keys that eliminate password reliance.

The Bottom Line

Hackers are relentlessly targeting your login credentials with ever-more clever methods. Staying protected doesn't mean going it alone.

We're here to help you implement robust security measures that safeguard your business without disrupting your team's workflow.

Wondering if your business is at risk? Let's talk. Click here or give us a call at 678-940-8992 to book your 15-Minute Discovery Call.