How hackers steal your login without knowing your password
Session cookies, the digital keys that keep you logged in, are now hackers' primary target; 52 billion stolen in just one year.
When you log into your bank or email, you get a unique cookie on your device that keeps the door open without asking for your password again. A hacker who steals that active cookie becomes you instantly.
Hackers with your stolen cookie don't need your password, don't trigger login alerts, and often bypass two-factor authentication. The cookies are stolen when malware secretly downloads to your device and raids your browser's stored data.
You might not know you've been hit until a fraudster empties your bank account, uses your email to scam others, or changes your online orders. Watch for signs of infection: slow devices, fast battery drain, crashes, and browser redirects.
Most importantly, actually log out instead of just closing a tab, closing it leaves the cookie active.
- 52 billion
- Cookies stolen in one year
- Marijus Briedis, CTO at NordVPN
- Security expert
Why it mattersCookies are now the easiest way for fraudsters to access your money and identity without setting off normal security alarms.
AustraliaAustralian banks and email providers are frequent targets; Australians dealing with malware risk losing access to accounts and savings without extra warning.
Corroborated byinkl.com
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 h ago
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