What Is Credential Harvesting and How Can Your Business Prevent It?

Credential harvesting happens when attackers steal login information such as usernames, passwords, MFA codes, API keys, and session tokens. They then use those credentials to access accounts as if they were a legitimate user. Because attackers are using real login information, these attacks can be difficult to detect and may lead to data breaches, financial loss, or business disruption. Understanding how credential harvesting works and how to protect against it can help your organization reduce risk and strengthen cybersecurity.

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What Is Credential Harvesting?

Credential harvesting is the process of stealing login information from individuals or organizations. This information may include:

• Usernames
• Passwords
• Multi-factor authentication (MFA) codes
• API keys
• Session tokens

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How Do Cybercriminals Steal Login Credentials?

Cybercriminals use several techniques to collect usernames, passwords, session tokens, and other sensitive login information. While their tactics vary, most credential harvesting attacks fall into four common categories.

Attack Method	What It Looks Like	Goal of the Attacker
Phishing Email	Fake email claiming to be Microsoft 365, a bank, or a vendor	Trick users into entering credentials
Fake Login Page	Website designed to mimic a legitimate login screen	Capture usernames and passwords
Malware	Malicious software installed on a device	Steal credentials, cookies, and session tokens
Social Engineering	Phone calls, texts, or messages posing as trusted contacts	Convince users to share access information

Let's take a closer look at each of these methods and why they continue to be effective against businesses of all sizes.

Phishing Emails

Phishing emails are one of the most common tactics. These messages are designed to look like they come from a trusted source, such as Microsoft 365, a bank, a vendor, or even a coworker. The email may ask the recipient to:

• Reset a password
• Review a document
• Verify account information
• Update security settings

When the user clicks the link, they are taken to a fake login page that looks legitimate. If they enter their credentials, the attacker captures them.

Fake Login Pages

Attackers often create websites that closely resemble real login pages. At first glance, these pages can be nearly impossible to distinguish from the real thing. A user enters their credentials, thinking they are signing into a trusted application, when they are actually sending that information directly to a cybercriminal.

Malware

Some forms of malware can collect saved passwords, browser cookies, session tokens, and other account information without the user's knowledge.

Social Engineering

Sometimes attackers simply ask. They may use phone calls, text messages, social media, or emails to convince someone to share credentials or approve an MFA request.

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Why Is Credential Harvesting a Growing Threat to Businesses?

Most businesses rely on cloud applications, email systems, financial platforms, and business software that require user accounts. When an attacker gains access to valid credentials, they may be able to:

• Access confidential information
• Read company email
• Steal sensitive data
• Send fraudulent messages
• Move between connected systems
• Launch additional attacks

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What Happens When Attackers Gain Access to Stolen Credentials?

The impact can be significant. Stolen credentials may allow attackers to:

• Access customer information
• View sensitive business data
• Create unauthorized email forwarding rules
• Send phishing emails from trusted accounts
• Disrupt operations
• Gain access to additional systems

The consequences of credential harvesting can vary depending on which account is compromised. The table below highlights some of the most common risks businesses face when attackers gain access to stolen credentials.

Attackers Access...	They May Be Able To...
Email Accounts	Send phishing emails from trusted addresses
Microsoft 365	Access files, Teams conversations, and company data
Financial Systems	Commit fraud or unauthorized transactions
Customer Records	Steal sensitive information
Administrative Accounts	Gain broader access across business systems

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How Can Businesses Protect Themselves from Credential Harvesting?

While no security solution can eliminate all risk, there are several steps organizations can take to reduce their chances of becoming a victim.

Train Employees to Recognize Phishing Attempts

Employees are often the first line of defense. Regular security awareness training can help users identify suspicious emails, unexpected login requests, and social engineering tactics before credentials are exposed.

Use Strong, Unique Passwords

Avoid reusing passwords across multiple accounts. Strong, unique passwords make it more difficult for attackers to gain access to multiple systems if one password is compromised. Password managers can help employees create and store secure passwords.

Enable Multi-Factor Authentication

MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second verification step during login. While MFA is not perfect, it remains one of the most effective ways to protect accounts from unauthorized access.

Keep Systems Updated

Software updates often include security fixes that help protect against known threats and vulnerabilities.

Monitor for Suspicious Activity

Businesses should watch for:

• Login attempts from unfamiliar locations
• Unexpected password reset requests
• New devices accessing accounts
• Unauthorized MFA changes
• Unusual account activity

Early detection can help stop an incident before it becomes a larger problem.

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What Warning Signs Could Indicate a Credential Harvesting Attack?

If something feels suspicious, it is always better to investigate than assume everything is fine.

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What Should You Do If Your Credentials Are Compromised?

If you believe your credentials have been stolen:

1. Change your password immediately.
2. Notify your IT team.
3. Review account activity.
4. Sign out of active sessions when possible.
5. Reset MFA settings if needed.
6. Scan devices for malware.
7. Monitor accounts for unusual activity.

Quick action can help prevent additional damage and reduce the impact of an attack.

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How Can VGM Forbin Help Protect Your Business from Credential Harvesting?

Protecting against credential harvesting requires more than a strong password. It requires a layered cybersecurity strategy. VGM Forbin helps organizations strengthen security through: Our team works alongside businesses to identify risks, implement security best practices, and provide ongoing support designed to reduce exposure to evolving cyber threats. The goal is not just to respond to threats. It is to help prevent them before they impact your organization.

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What Steps Can Your Organization Take to Strengthen Cybersecurity?

Credential harvesting attacks continue to evolve, but many can be prevented through a combination of employee education, strong authentication practices, proactive monitoring, and layered security controls.

The challenge for many organizations is finding the time, resources, and expertise needed to stay ahead of changing threats.

That's where VGM Forbin can help.

Taking a proactive approach today can help prevent costly security incidents tomorrow.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Credential Harvesting

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Protect Your Business from Credential Harvesting

Credential harvesting attacks often target people rather than technology. The good news is that the right combination of security tools, user education, and proactive monitoring can significantly reduce your risk.