Credential Theft Surges 160% — Protect Yourself Now
Cybersecurity researchers report a staggering 160% increase in credential theft in 2025. That means stolen usernames and passwords are flooding the dark web at record pace, sold like trading cards to the highest bidder. Once stolen, attackers don’t stop there — they try those same login details across dozens of other services, from banking and email to workplace systems. If you’ve reused a password anywhere, one breach can quickly turn into many.
This is why our security program doesn’t just focus on “strong” passwords — it goes further. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of defense, requiring a code or push notification in addition to your password. Even if a hacker buys or steals your login, they can’t get in without that second factor. Pair that with a password manager, and you’ve got a system that creates long, unique passwords for every account, remembers them for you, and autofills them safely. The result: fewer headaches for you, and far less opportunity for attackers.
But security isn’t just about tools — it’s also about habits. A few simple behaviors make a big difference. Always hover over links before clicking to make sure they go where they claim. Don’t open unexpected attachments or enable macros in documents from unknown sources. When in doubt, call the sender on a known number instead of replying to a suspicious email. And remember, the quickest way to protect everyone is to report phishing attempts immediately.
The surge in stolen credentials shows how valuable our logins are to attackers. By combining 2FA, password managers, and a few smart daily habits, you can make yourself a hard target. Hackers are counting on the easy win — let’s not give it to them.
Here are 13 things you can do to protect your credentials.
- Stop — check the sender. If the address looks weird (extra letters, wrong domain), don’t click.
- Hover before you click. Move your mouse over links to see where they go. If it doesn’t match the message, don’t click.
- Don’t enable macros or run unknown attachments. If a doc asks you to “Enable Content,” treat it like a red flag.
- When in doubt, call. If your boss asks for money or sensitive info via email, call them on a known number — not the number in the email.
- Use 2FA everywhere. It’s the single best protection when passwords leak.
- Keep devices updated. Install OS and app updates frequently — they close security holes hackers use.
- Don’t use public Wi-Fi for sensitive work. Use a company VPN or your phone hotspot.
- Lock your screen when away. Even a minute matters.
- Report suspicious emails — immediately.
- Be careful with links in SMS or social apps. Phishers use texts too.
- Backup important files. Ransomware looks for easy targets — backups save the day.
- Implement verbal pass phrases with loved ones. With the rise of AI-powered vishing, having a way to confirm identity can be huge.
- Use a password manager. One strong master password + autofill beats reused passwords and sticky notes.
