What is a common method for password collection?

A common method for password collection that is often employed by attackers is through the use of network sniffers. Network sniffers are tools that can capture and analyze the data packets transmitted over a network. When users log in to websites or send sensitive information, their credentials can be transmitted over the network. If these credentials are not properly encrypted, a network sniffer can intercept this data as it travels. This allows attackers to harvest usernames, passwords, and other sensitive information without the victim's knowledge.

Utilizing network sniffers is particularly effective in scenarios where users are connected to unsecured networks, such as public Wi-Fi, where it is easier for attackers to capture unencrypted traffic. This method highlights the importance of using secure connections, such as HTTPS, which encrypts data in transit and makes it significantly more difficult for attackers to intercept sensitive information.

In contrast, while email attachments can be a method for spreading malware that could potentially lead to password theft, they are not a direct method for collecting passwords themselves. Backdoor intrusions typically involve exploiting vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access to a system rather than capturing passwords in transit. SQL Injection is a technique used to manipulate database queries, which can be effective for extracting data but requires a different context for execution compared to the passive