Virtual Private Network (VPN) services are utilised by many UK businesses to facilitate remote workers who are using untrusted networks, such as public Wi-Fi or home network. Without VPNs, home workers would be unable to ensure secure remote access to company resources.
Password spraying
Password spraying involves attempting to access multiple accounts using commonly used passwords, such as ‘password123’ or ‘admin’, making it a significant concern for businesses relying on VPNs for secure remote access. The severity and prevalence of these attacks are high, demonstrating the need for businesses to take proactive measures to safeguard their VPN services. With remote employees accessing sensitive company data and resources through VPN connections, successful attacks could lead to unauthorised access, data breaches, financial losses, and reputational damage. In addition, UK businesses must adhere to stringent data protection regulations, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). A breach resulting from a password spraying attack on VPN services could lead to regulatory penalties and legal ramifications, further emphasising the importance of robust cyber security measures.
Moving forward
To tackle the threat posed by password spraying attacks UK businesses should adhere to and uphold a strong password policy. Employees should be encouraged by management to stay clear of commonly used passwords and instead create complex and unique passwords reducing the likelihood of a successful attack. To add an additional layer of security, Multi-Factor Authentication should be used to mitigate the risk of unauthorised access if a password is compromised.
Furthermore, advanced security solutions capable of detecting and mitigating password spraying attacks in real-time should be used to minimise the impact on VPN services and business operations. Vigilance and investment in cyber security are paramount in safeguarding the integrity of VPN services and maintaining business continuity in an increasingly digital landscape. Additionally, organisations can use security tools and techniques such as account lockout policies and intrusion detection systems to detect and prevent password spraying attacks.
Finally, educating employees about the risks of password spraying and the importance of maintaining a strong password hygiene will promote employee vigilance and increase business protection.
