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Password spraying is a stealthy and highly effective cyberattack technique that targets multiple accounts using a list of commonly used or weak passwords. For sectors like manufacturing and non-profits—where resources may be focused on operations or missions rather than cybersecurity—this can be especially dangerous. These attacks exploit human behavior and outdated security habits, making it critical to understand how they work and how to stop them.
In this blog, we’ll explain how password spraying differs from other types of cyberattacks, explore ways to detect and prevent it, and outline practical defenses that both non-profits and manufacturing organizations can implement today.
What Is Password Spraying and How Does It Work?
Unlike typical brute-force attacks that try many passwords against one account, password spraying uses one password (or a small list of weak ones) against many user accounts. This helps attackers avoid account lockout mechanisms that are typically triggered by too many failed login attempts on a single account.
Hackers often acquire usernames through public directories, compromised databases, or organizational leaks. They then pair these usernames with passwords like “Spring2024!” or “Welcome123”—combinations many employees still use. In sectors like manufacturing, where shared workstations are common, or non-profits, where volunteers may not receive formal IT training, the likelihood of weak or reused passwords is high.
Because this attack distributes attempts across multiple accounts and uses “plausible” passwords, it often evades detection.
Why Is Password Spraying So Dangerous for Manufacturing and Non-Profits?
Manufacturing organizations often operate legacy systems with minimal modern security controls. Meanwhile, non-profits may prioritize funding toward outreach instead of cybersecurity. This creates an ideal environment for password spraying:
- Limited cybersecurity training
- Infrequent password updates
- Shared or generic logins
- Basic IT infrastructures
Attackers exploit these vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access to sensitive data, disrupt operations, or launch further attacks like ransomware or data exfiltration.
How Does Password Spraying Differ from Other Attacks?
- Brute-force attacks try every possible password on one account until they succeed.
- Credential stuffing uses known username-password pairs from previous breaches.
- Password spraying, however, uses common passwords on many accounts, staying under the radar by avoiding multiple failed attempts on any one account.
This stealth makes detection difficult and reinforces the need for strong authentication controls.
How Can You Detect and Prevent Password Spraying?
Manufacturers and non-profits can reduce their vulnerability by adopting the following practices:
1. Enforce Strong Password Policies
Avoid common words, patterns, or organization-specific terms. Use at least 12-character passwords that include upper and lower case letters, numbers, and symbols. Password managers can make this easier and more secure.
2. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
MFA drastically reduces the chance of a successful breach, even if a password is compromised. Options include authentication apps, security keys, or biometrics.
3. Monitor and Audit Login Activity
Keep an eye on failed login patterns—especially repeated attempts from one IP address targeting multiple users. Log analysis tools or SIEM systems can detect anomalies.
4. Educate Your Team
Regularly train employees and volunteers on password hygiene, phishing awareness, and how to spot suspicious activity. Tailor training for both office staff and field or factory workers.
5. Set Up Alerting and Lockout Thresholds
While traditional lockouts may not stop password spraying, advanced thresholding—such as alerting when a single password is tried across multiple accounts—can identify this pattern early.
Take a Proactive Approach to Cyber Defense
Password spraying is not just a technical threat—it’s a human one. It exploits weak password choices and outdated practices, which are common in resource-constrained environments like non-profits and manufacturing. But with the right strategy, your organization can stay ahead of attackers.
Let’s Secure Your Organization Together
Whether you’re managing supply chains or community impact programs, cybersecurity doesn’t have to be a burden. Our team can help you assess your risks, implement practical defenses, and train your team to stay protected.
👉 Contact us today for a personalized cybersecurity assessment.
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