IT groups often focus on login security, but password resets sometimes get less attention. If reset procedures are less secure than logins, they become prime targets for attacks.

Attackers who successfully enter a system often try to reset passwords for important accounts. A weak reset process lets them navigate the network and gain higher-level access while appearing as normal users.

Since understanding password reset vulnerabilities is key, we’ll look at how attackers misuse resets to gain higher privileges and present seven ways to strengthen security without impacting team efficiency.

Many systems don’t apply the same strict controls to password resets as they do to regular logins. Instead of fighting through strong login protections, attackers seek out easier-to-exploit reset methods. Common ways to escalate privileges include:

Compromised user accounts: An attacker accesses a regular user account and then looks for reset opportunities to reach more valuable accounts. This is especially risky if helpdesk tools or broad admin rights allow them to move laterally.

Social engineering through helpdesks: Attackers pretend to be employees who are locked out and demand quick resets. Under pressure, poor identity checks can lead to unauthorized access.

Stolen reset tokens: If email is infiltrated, multi-factor authentication (MFA) depends on SMS, or recovery settings are poorly setup, attackers can intercept reset links or codes without the original password.

Misuse of overly permissive admins: Users with extensive reset capabilities could intentionally or accidentally alter passwords outside of their role, enabling an escalation of privilege.

MFA significantly limits privilege escalation through password resets. Requiring MFA for reset requests should be a standard precaution. However, some MFA approaches are weaker than others. MFA methods relying on email and SMS codes aren’t perfect.

For vital or admin accounts, MFA resistant to phishing (like FIDO2 or hardware keys) gives stronger security against token theft. This lessens the chance of token theft, “SIM swapping,” and credential phishing.

Resets initiated from unknown devices create needless vulnerability. Infected devices, personal devices, or sessions from strange locations raise risks.

If possible, restrict resets to reliable devices and use device security checks. Block or increase verification for requests from unfamiliar regions or high-risk IPs. Identity confirmation isn’t enough; MFA confirms the user’s identity, but not the device’s security status.

Password resets only help security when the new password is truly strong. Organizations must enforce minimum length rules, block common passwords, and prevent recycled passwords.

Complexity rules can help, but excessive requirements cause predictable passwords and upset users. Passphrases address this, as they’re harder to crack, yet easier for employees to remember.

Tools such as Specops Password Policy let organizations impose stricter password policies than Microsoft’s built-in options. Through its Breached Password Protection feature, it also continuously blocks over 5.4 billion known compromised passwords, reducing the probability of attackers exploiting valid credentials.

Password resets are often targeted by phishing scams, knowing people become less careful during urgent situations. Teach employees to spot reset scams, suspicious MFA prompts, and unexpected recovery emails.

Helpdesk teams also need consistent identity verification practices. Even with self-service resets, a hasty approval can become a way to escalate privileges.

Organizations should track and assess reset requests, especially for privileged accounts. Monitor and alert on unusual patterns like repeated tries, off-hours activity, or resets from unusual places.

Also, review who has rights to reset others’ passwords. Overly broad access can create unnoticed escalation opportunities that can get exploited.

Using least privilege restricts escalation by making sure users, including admins, have only needed access. This includes limiting who can reset passwords and isolating high-privilege accounts from daily tasks.

Privileged access should be closely managed, time-limited when possible, and checked often. The fewer ways that attackers can jump between accounts, the harder it is for one reset to lead to total control.

Security questions or “something you know” methods are no longer reliable to protect password resets. Answers are easier to find as more information gets shared on social media. Instead, use possession-based verification like secure MFA prompts, or verify trusted devices.

Here Specops’ Infinipoint zero trust access solution helps by connecting users to trusted devices, and authenticating only logins from approved, registered devices.

Secure password resets means protecting the complete account, from recovery to ongoing vigilance. We help organizations reduce the risk of privileged escalation by strengthening reset workflows with Specops uReset.

Remote users can change their password at any time or place, whether on or off the VPN. Several authentication options ensure users can complete resets even if one identity provider fails.

Our identity security products designed to help IT teams secure access without extra effort.

If you want to learn how Specops can help secure your passwords, contact us to book a demo to see how our solutions can work for you.

Sponsored and written by Specops Software.