When most people picture a cyberattack, they imagine a brute-force breach, some hoodie-wearing hacker smashing through firewalls like a digital battering ram. But in 2025, the most common way cybercriminals get in isn’t by force: it’s by invitation.
They’re logging in with stolen passwords, not breaking down the door. And unfortunately, it's working.
The Rise of Identity-Based Cyberattacks in Houston
Known as identity-based attacks, these breaches occur when hackers use legitimate login credentials to access your systems. That means they don’t need to hack your firewall; they just need someone’s username and password.
And it’s becoming a massive threat to small and mid-sized businesses across Houston.
In fact, recent reports show that 67% of major cyber incidents in 2024 were linked to compromised credentials. Even Fortune 500 companies like MGM Resorts and Caesars Entertainment fell victim, proving that size doesn’t equal immunity.
So, if major corporations are vulnerable, how safe do you think your small business really is?
How Hackers Are Getting In
Most of these attacks start with something small, like a single leaked password. But the tactics are becoming more advanced and harder to spot:
- Phishing Emails & Spoofed Logins
Hackers send fake login pages or impersonate trusted contacts to steal credentials from employees. - SIM Swapping
Attackers hijack a victim’s phone number to intercept two-factor authentication (2FA) codes via text. - MFA Fatigue
A newer tactic where hackers flood a user’s phone with login approvals until someone mistakenly taps “Allow.” - Third-Party Access
Vendors like help desks, call centers, or even personal devices can be backdoors if not secured properly.
How Houston Businesses Can Protect Themselves
The good news? You don’t need to be a cybersecurity expert to lock down your business. Here are a few proactive steps to dramatically reduce your risk:
Turn on Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring two forms of verification.
Pro tip: Use app-based or hardware-key MFA, not text messages, which are easier to compromise.
Train Your Team to Spot Red Flags
Your staff is your first line of defense.
Regular training helps them recognize phishing attempts, suspicious logins, and how to report security incidents quickly.
Limit Access Privileges
Don’t give employees access to everything.
Use the principle of least privilege so if one account is compromised, the hacker’s reach is limited.
Ditch Weak Passwords
Encourage strong, unique passwords, or better yet, implement passwordless login options like biometric logins or security keys.
Password managers are a great start, too.
The Bottom Line for Houston SMBs
Cybercriminals aren’t just targeting big corporations anymore. They’re targeting Houston’s small and mid-sized businesses, counting on you to be unprepared.
But with the right tools, policies, and support, you won’t be an easy target.
At Alexaur Technology Services, we help Houston businesses build real resilience against modern cyber threats. From passwordless security setups to vendor risk management, we make it easy to stay ahead, without overcomplicating your workflow.
Is Your Business at Risk?
Let’s find out.
Click here or call (281) 646-1200 to schedule a free 15-Minute Discovery Call and see how we can help secure your Houston business before hackers log in.
