A brute force attack is a cryptographic hacking method where attackers use automated software to systematically guess all possible combinations of passwords, PINs, or encryption keys until the correct one is found . It relies on trial-and-error to gain unauthorized access to systems or data. While simple, these attacks are highly effective against weak or reused passwords.
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A brute force attack is a cryptographic hacking method where attackers use automated software to systematically guess all possible combinations of passwords, PINs, or encryption keys until the correct one is found . It relies on trial-and-error to gain unauthorized access to systems or data. While simple, these attacks are highly effective against weak or reused passwords.
Cite this term
Election Security Glossary. (2026). Brute Force. In Election Security Glossary. Retrieved August 13, 2026, from https://electionsecurityglossary.com/glossary/brute-force
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