A brute force attack is a hacking method that uses trial and error to crack passwords, login credentials, and encryption keys. It is a simple yet reliable tactic for gaining unauthorized access to individual accounts and organizations’ systems and networks. The attacker tries multiple usernames and passwords, often using a computer to test a wide range of combinations, until they find the correct login information. The name "brute force" comes from attackers using excessively forceful attempts to gain access to user accounts.

There are various types of brute force attack methods that allow attackers to gain unauthorized access and steal user data. These include:

• Simple Brute Force Attacks: A hacker attempts to guess a user’s login credentials manually without using any software. This is typically through standard password combinations or personal identification number (PIN) codes.

• Dictionary Attacks: A hacker chooses a target and runs possible passwords against that username. These are known as dictionary attacks. Dictionary attacks are the most basic tool in brute force attacks.

• Hybrid Brute Force Attacks: These hackers blend outside means with their logical guesses to attempt a break-in. A hybrid attack usually mixes dictionary and brute force attacks. These attacks are used to figure out combo passwords that mix common words with random characters.

• Reverse Brute Force Attacks: A reverse brute force attack reverses the attack strategy by starting with a known password. Then hackers search millions of usernames until they find a match.

Brute force attacks require plenty of patience because it may take months or even years for an attacker to successfully crack a password or encryption key. However, the potential rewards are huge. Cybercriminals typically use a brute-force attack to obtain access to a website, account, or network. They may then install malware, shut down web applications, or conduct data breaches.

Organizations can strengthen cybersecurity against brute-force attacks by using a combination of strategies, including increasing password complexity, limiting failed login attempts, and implementing password manager rules. Countermeasures to brute forcing credentials include increased password length, complexity, and rotation, esoteric naming conventions for usernames, strong public-key infrastructure, adoption of biometrics, and abandoning the shared secret model of user authentication.