A hybrid attack refers to a method where attackers combine multiple techniques or tools—often blending both technical and social tactics—to maximize their chances of success and evade detection. This multi-vector approach makes hybrid attacks particularly difficult to defend against because attackers can adapt their strategies as security measures respond, increasing their agility and ability to move laterally within a network.
Hybrid attacks combine two or more attack methods, such as brute force, dictionary attacks, malware deployment, and social engineering. They allow attackers to exploit multiple vulnerabilities simultaneously, bypassing traditional defenses. They also enable attackers to switch tactics as security controls are triggered, making detection and mitigation more challenging.
One of the most prevalent forms of hybrid attacks is in password cracking. Here, attackers typically blend dictionary attacks (using lists of common passwords or phrases) with brute-force techniques (systematically generating variations by adding numbers, symbols, or changing cases). For example, if a user’s password is “London1999,” a hybrid attack would try combinations like “London,” “London1,” “London1999!,” etc., making it more effective than using either technique alone.