Brute Force/Dictionary Attack

What is a brute force attack?

A brute force attack is a trial-and-error method used by attackers to gain access to passwords, encryption keys, or other sensitive data by systematically attempting all possible combinations until the correct one is found. This type of attack relies on computational power and time, as the attacker attempts a large number of potential solutions, leveraging automated tools to expedite the process. Brute force attacks can be mitigated by using strong, complex passwords, implementing account lockout mechanisms, and employing multi-factor authentication.

I demonstrated using Metasploit to conduct brute force and dictionary attacks. I began by selecting the relevant Metasploit module for the target application. This showcased my ability to use advanced penetration testing tools to identify vulnerabilities, highlighting my proficiency in both brute force and dictionary attack methodologies.

On this image, it shows me linking the PASS_FILE to a text file containing many potential passwords, which Metasploit will use to attempt unauthorized access. Additionally, it demonstrates linking the USER_FILE to a text file with a list of potential usernames. By specifying these files, Metasploit is configured to systematically try each username-password combination in a brute force attack. This setup highlights my ability to prepare and execute sophisticated penetration testing scenarios, showcasing my expertise in leveraging Metasploit for security assessments and vulnerability identification.

This image illustrates my brute force attack in action, systematically attempting each potential password listed in the ‘password.txt’ file. Metasploit diligently processes each entry, pairing them with usernames from the associated ‘username.txt’ file until the correct login credential is identified. As shown, the tool successfully discovers the valid combination “msfadmin”. This demonstration underscores my proficiency in utilizing Metasploit for penetration testing, effectively uncovering vulnerabilities by automating the process of credential discovery, and highlighting the importance of robust security practices.