What it is
Password reuse exposure describes the blast radius that occurs when a single password is shared across email, VPNs, admin panels, and SaaS tools. A compromise in any one system—via phishing, database leak, or malware—gives attackers working credentials everywhere that password is reused.
Why it matters
Adversaries routinely weaponize leaked password databases and automated credential stuffing bots. If an organization reuses passwords, attackers can immediately fan out across critical services, escalate privileges, and move laterally faster than detection controls can react.
How to reduce risk
- Enforce unique passwords per application or service
- Mandate phishing-resistant multi-factor authentication (MFA)
- Monitor for leaked credentials with breach intelligence feeds
- Provide password managers so users can generate and store strong passwords