AI and GPUs Make Your Passwords Easier to Crack: A Study
Concerns about password security have escalated as AI and powerful GPUs enable hackers to crack even complex passwords rapidly. A report from a cybersecurity firm reveals that hackers can now leverage AI tools and GPUs to breach passwords more easily than ever before. The use of advanced graphics processing units (GPUs) like those from Nvidia has significantly reduced the time required to crack various password types.
Image courtesy of Tom's Hardware
AI and GPU Dynamics in Password Cracking
According to HotHardware, hackers utilize hashing techniques to transform passwords before storing them. When a data breach occurs, the hashed passwords are exposed, allowing hackers to use long lists of potential passwords and hash them to find matches. The introduction of AI tools has sped up this process, enabling systems like ChatGPT with thousands of A100 GPUs to crack passwords in mere seconds.
A recent study by Hive Systems indicates that even an 8-character password can be cracked in about two months using AI tools. The report also highlights that passwords composed solely of numbers or common patterns are particularly vulnerable, as these methods are often predictable.
For more detailed insights, check the complete analysis on Tom's Hardware.
Password Cracking Metrics
The Hive Systems Password Table outlines the time required for various GPUs to crack different types of passwords:
| Graphics Card | Numbers Only | Lowercase Letters | Upper and Lowercase Letters | Numbers, Upper and Lowercase Letters | Numbers, Upper and Lowercase Letters, Symbols |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GeForce RTX 2080 | Instantly | 6 Seconds | 24 Minutes | 2 Hours | 4 Hours |
| GeForce RTX 3090 | Instantly | 6 Seconds | 13 Minutes | 52 Minutes | 2 Hours |
| GeForce RTX 4090 | Instantly | 1 Seconds | 5 Minutes | 22 Minutes | 59 Minutes |
Data sourced from Tom's Hardware.
The findings demonstrate that even relatively simple password structures can be breached quickly when using advanced GPU technology. This serves as a stark reminder for organizations to reconsider their password protection strategies.
The Role of AI in Password Cracking
A cybersecurity firm’s research published on Wccftech demonstrates the alarming capabilities of AI tools like PassGAN. This AI-driven tool can analyze and crack passwords at an astonishing rate, potentially breaching 51% of common passwords within a minute. The study emphasizes the necessity of stronger passwords—ideally, at least 12 characters long, combining letters, numbers, and symbols to enhance security.
Image courtesy of Wccftech
Mitigating Risks with Passwordless Solutions
Organizations can significantly enhance their security posture by transitioning to passwordless authentication methods. Tools such as Okta FastPass provide a secure alternative by employing public key cryptography, thus eliminating the risks associated with traditional passwords. This method not only improves user experience but also reduces the chances of data breaches.
At mojoauth, we specialize in swiftly integrating passwordless authentication solutions for web and mobile applications. Our offerings include passkeys, phone OTPs, email OTPs, and other passwordless methods designed to provide a seamless and secure login experience for users.
Organizations should prioritize adopting these advanced solutions to combat the ever-evolving threats in the cybersecurity landscape.
*** This is a Security Bloggers Network syndicated blog from MojoAuth – Go Passwordless authored by Devesh Patel. Read the original post at: https://mojoauth.com/blog/ai-and-gpus-make-your-passwords-easier-to-crack-a-study/
