Pass-the-Hash Attack Simulation: Replicating Hash Attacks

How do pass-the-hash attacks work?

In a pass-the-hash attack, the attacker uses stolen hash values to get into a system. This way they bypass the normal sign-in. Hash values come from cryptographic algorithms. These turn passwords into strings of characters that no one can read. The system then uses these strings to check who is signing in.

A successful PtH attack runs like this:

1. The attacker gets into a network.
2. They pull hashes from a privileged account.
3. They use these hashes to pose as the real user.

Typical weaknesses

These weak spots make pass-the-hash attacks easier:

• Unsafe storage of hashes, for example in the memory of compromised systems
• The same local administrator password on many systems
• Privileged accounts that sign in to many systems and leave credentials behind
• NTLM authentication that is still allowed

Protective measures against pass-the-hash attacks

Take these steps to protect against pass-the-hash attacks:

• Unique local administrator passwords, e.g. with Microsoft LAPS
• Limit and separate privileged accounts (tiering model)
• Protect credentials, e.g. with Credential Guard and the Protected Users group
• Restrict NTLM and use Kerberos instead
• Monitor and log suspicious activity on your systems on a regular basis
• Use endpoint security tools to spot pass-the-hash attempts

Benefits of simulating pass-the-hash attacks

When you simulate these attacks, you can check your systems for weak spots in depth. This means:

• Rating how secure your sign-in systems are today
• Finding the exact weak spots that real attackers could use
• Checking whether monitoring and endpoint protection spot the attacks
• Getting data to build defense plans that fit your needs

Carrying out a simulation in your company

For a pass-the-hash simulation that works, companies should:

1. Define the scope and obtain approval: Agree on the scope, time frame and target systems in writing before you start. The people in charge must approve them.
2. Understand their network infrastructure: Before the simulation starts, you need to know how the network is built. You also need to know which systems are most at risk.
3. Identify security gaps: Look for entry points that attackers could use.
4. Use simulation tools: Special software can simulate pass-the-hash attacks. These tools let you build scenarios that mimic real threats.
5. Review and update security policies: After the simulation, revise your security policies. Adapt them to fix the weak spots you found.

Conclusion

Pass-the-hash simulation is still a key tool for IT security teams. It helps them get ready for growing threats online. Run realistic attack scenarios and review your security on a regular basis. That way you protect your systems and keep your sign-in processes intact. To counter pass-the-hash attacks, you need to know your own security setup well. And you need to fix weak spots before attackers find them.

Your next step

Our experts help you simulate pass-the-hash attacks within an agreed scope. We uncover weak spots in your environment and help you put the right protective measures in place.

Contact us and take the first step toward a safer digital future.