Hello, you are using an old browser that's unsafe and no longer supported. Please consider updating your browser to a newer version, or downloading a modern browser.

Global Accelerated Learning • Est. 1999
Glossary Term Account Takeover (ATO)

Training Camp • Cybersecurity Glossary

What is Account Takeover (ATO)?

Account takeover ATO is an attack where adversaries hijack a legitimate users account via stolen credentials, phishing, or credential stuffing to commit fraud.

Glossary > Threats, Malware & Attacks > Account Takeover (ATO)

Understanding Account Takeover (ATO)

Account takeover (ATO) is an identity-based attack in which an adversary gains unauthorized control of a legitimate user's account, typically through stolen credentials, credential stuffing, phishing, session hijacking, or SIM swapping. Once in control, attackers commit fraud, exfiltrate data, send phishing from the trusted account, or pivot deeper into connected systems. Defenses include multi-factor authentication, anomaly and bot detection, credential-breach monitoring, and step-up authentication for high-risk actions.

Learn More About Account Takeover (ATO):

Ready to Get Certified?

Turn knowledge into credentials with our instructor-led cybersecurity boot camps.

View All Courses →