Description: Credential acquisition refers to the process of obtaining usernames and passwords that allow access to computer systems. This process is fundamental in the field of cybersecurity, as credentials are the first line of defense against unauthorized access. In ethical hacking, credential acquisition is performed in a controlled and legal manner, with the goal of identifying vulnerabilities in a system and strengthening its security. Methods used for credential acquisition can include techniques such as phishing, where users are tricked into revealing their information, or the use of automated tools that test password combinations. The importance of this process lies in the fact that by obtaining credentials, security professionals can simulate real attacks and assess the effectiveness of implemented protective measures. Furthermore, credential acquisition also allows organizations to better understand how attackers might attempt to infiltrate their systems, helping them develop more robust strategies to prevent security breaches.
History: Credential acquisition has evolved over time, especially with the growth of the Internet and the digitization of data. In the 1990s, with the expansion of the web, hacking techniques such as phishing began to emerge, which became popular in the early 2000s. As organizations started to recognize the importance of cybersecurity, credential acquisition became a key approach to assessing system security. Today, advanced tools and social engineering techniques are used to obtain credentials, leading to an increased awareness of the need to protect sensitive information.
Uses: Credential acquisition is primarily used in penetration testing and security audits. Cybersecurity professionals employ these techniques to identify vulnerabilities in systems and applications, allowing organizations to strengthen their defenses. Additionally, it is used in employee training to raise awareness about security risks and in the creation of more effective security policies. It is also relevant in forensic investigations, where the aim is to understand how an attack occurred and which credentials were compromised.
Examples: An example of credential acquisition is a phishing attack where an attacker sends an email that appears to be from a legitimate entity, asking users to enter their credentials on a fake website. Another example is the use of tools like ‘Hashcat’ to crack passwords stored in compromised databases. In the context of penetration testing, a professional may use social engineering techniques to obtain credentials from employees and assess the organization’s security.
