If you picture a cyberattack as some hoodie-wearing villain pounding away at your firewall, you’re about a decade behind the times. Today’s cybercriminals have figured out it’s easier to stroll through the front door with something far more valuable than brute force: your login credentials.
It’s called an identity-based attack, and it’s quickly becoming the #1 way hackers breach businesses—including CPA firms. They don’t need to hack your servers if they can just log in like they own the place.
And unfortunately? It’s working.
One major cybersecurity firm reported that 67% of serious security incidents in 2024 started with stolen logins. Big-name companies like MGM Resorts and Caesars fell victim last year. If the big guys—with million-dollar security budgets—can get taken down, smaller firms like ours are even juicier targets.
How They’re Getting In
Most of these breaches start with something simple—like a swiped password—but the playbook is evolving fast:
- Phishing emails & fake login pages fool staff into handing over credentials.
- SIM swapping hijacks the text messages you use for two-factor authentication (2FA).
- MFA fatigue attacks flood your phone with “approve login” prompts until you click yes out of annoyance or exhaustion.
Some hackers even go after vendors you trust—like your payroll processor, help desk, or call center—because one weak link can open the whole chain.
How CPA Firms Can Fight Back
Good news: you don’t have to be a tech wizard to lock down your digital front door. A few smart moves will put you miles ahead of the average target.
- Use Multifactor Authentication (MFA)—the right way
App-based or security key MFA beats text messages every time. Texts can be intercepted; authenticator apps can’t. - Train Your Team Like Your Business Depends On It
Because it does. Even your most seasoned partner can click a convincing phishing email. Regular, scenario-based training keeps everyone sharp. - Limit Access—Seriously
Not everyone needs the keys to the whole office. The fewer systems a login can reach, the less damage an intruder can do. - Get Serious About Passwords—or Skip Them Entirely
Use a password manager or, better yet, go passwordless with security keys or biometrics. The fewer passwords floating around, the less there is to steal.
The Bottom Line
Hackers aren’t after your firewalls anymore—they’re after you. Or, more specifically, the digital version of you: your usernames, passwords, and authentication codes.
If you’re wondering whether your firm is vulnerable, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to solve it solo. Our job is to put the right protections in place so you can focus on client work, not credential theft.
Let’s make sure your logins stay yours. Schedule a discovery call, and we’ll walk you through an audit of your current defenses—without the jargon, the fear-mongering, or the surprise invoices.
