Leaked Credentials Surge by 160%: Unpacking the Threat Landscape
August 8, 2025
Identity Protection / Endpoint Security
The digital landscape has witnessed a striking surge in credential leaks, a development that carries profound implications for organizations across sectors. Though the immediate ramifications may not be overtly apparent, the long-term effects can be detrimental. A significant proportion of cyber breaches begin with a seemingly elementary lapse—compromised usernames and passwords. As highlighted in Verizon’s 2025 Data Breach Investigations Report, leaked credentials were responsible for 22% of breaches in 2024, surpassing other common attack vectors like phishing and software exploitation. This alarming statistic reflects a growing trend where traditional defenses are bypassed simply by authenticating through the front door.
Recent data from Cyberint, a threat intelligence firm recently acquired by Check Point, underscores the severity of this situation, reporting a staggering 160% increase in leaked credentials in 2025 compared to the previous year. The report, titled “The Rise of Leaked Credentials,” sheds light on both the escalating volume of these instances and the tactics employed by cyber adversaries to exploit them.
Targets of these credential leaks are often established organizations, which unwittingly become gateways for attackers. The leaked credentials not only allow unauthorized access but also pave the way for further exploitation. The country of origin for these breaches often remains elusive, with attackers operating across borders, making international legislation and cooperative cybersecurity efforts critical.
Within the context of the MITRE ATT&CK framework, several adversary tactics and techniques are relevant to these incidents. Notably, initial access is frequently gained through credential theft, which may be executed via common techniques such as credential dumping or brute force attacks. Once access is achieved, attackers may employ tactics aimed at establishing persistence within the compromised environment, allowing them to maintain unauthorized access over extended periods.
Privilege escalation is another critical component of these attacks. Once inside, adversaries may seek to elevate their access rights, enabling them to move laterally within the network and target sensitive information or critical systems. The combination of these tactics not only amplifies the risk but also complicates remediation efforts for affected organizations.
As this increase in credential leaks continues to pose a significant threat, it is imperative for business owners to adopt proactive measures to safeguard their systems. Routine password updates, the implementation of multi-factor authentication, and regular security training for employees are essential steps in fortifying defenses against these insidious attacks. Additionally, fostering a robust incident response plan can prove invaluable in mitigating the impact of potential breaches.
In summary, the rise in leaked credentials signifies a pressing challenge for organizations worldwide. Acknowledging the tactics employed by adversaries within the framework of MITRE ATT&CK can empower business leaders to take informed action, enhancing their cybersecurity posture in an increasingly perilous landscape.
