Dictionary Attacks

A dictionary attack is a method used in Password Cracking where an attacker tries to guess passwords or phrases by systematically entering every word in a prearranged list, typically derived from a dictionary.

This type of attack is based on the assumption that many users choose common words, phrases, or simple variations of them as their passwords.

Unlike Brute Force Attack|brute force attacks that try every possible combination, dictionary attacks focus on likely possibilities, making them faster and more efficient in many cases.

Attackers use a file containing a list of words, phrases and potentially common passwords. For more targeted attacks, the dictionary can be customized with information relevant to the individual or organization being targeted. A dictionary can also be built using a tool like CeWL to scrape the target website for relevant words.