How Scammers Steal Session Tokens to Hack Microsoft 365 Accounts

We all know that keeping our online accounts safe is super important. But did you know that some hackers can sneak into your Microsoft 365 account without even knowing your password? They do this by stealing something called a "session token." But what exactly is a session token, and how do they steal it? Let's break it down.

What is a Session Token?
Imagine you’re playing your favorite online game. When you log in, the game knows it’s really you by using your username and password. Once you’re logged in, the game gives you a special pass, like a VIP wristband at a concert. This pass is called a “session token.” It tells the game, “Hey, this is still you!” so you don’t have to keep typing in your password every time you do something in the game.

In Microsoft 365, a session token works the same way. After you log in with your email and password, you get a session token so you can keep using your email, Word, and other apps without logging in again and again.

How Do Hackers Steal Session Tokens?
Now, here’s where the trouble starts. Scammers want to get their hands on your session token because if they have it, they can pretend to be you. It’s like someone grabbing your VIP wristband at the concert and sneaking into all the VIP areas!

Here are some sneaky ways they might try to steal your session token:

Phishing Emails: Hackers send fake emails that look like they’re from a trusted company. These emails might have links that trick you into giving up your session token. For example, you might get an email that says, “Your Microsoft 365 account needs to be verified. Click here to login.” But when you click the link, you’re actually giving the hackers your session token!

Insecure Websites: If you visit a website that isn’t secure, hackers can sneak in and steal your session token. This usually happens when you’re using public Wi-Fi, like at a coffee shop, and the website doesn’t have a secure connection (you can tell if a website is secure if it has “https://” at the beginning of its address).

Browser Extensions: Some browser extensions or add-ons can be harmful. If you install a bad one, it might have hidden code that steals your session token while you’re using Microsoft 365.

What Happens When They Have Your Token?

Once a hacker has your session token, they can log in to your Microsoft 365 account without knowing your password. They can read your emails, send messages pretending to be you, and even access important files. This can be super dangerous, especially if they use your account to trick your friends or coworkers into giving them money or more information.

How Can You Protect Yourself?
Luckily, there are some easy ways to protect your session token and keep hackers out:

Be Careful with Emails: Don’t click on links in emails unless you’re sure they’re from someone you trust. If an email looks weird or asks for personal information, it might be a scam.
Use Secure Websites: Always check for “https://” in the website address. Avoid entering any personal information on websites that aren’t secure, especially when using public Wi-Fi.
Don’t Install Suspicious Extensions: Only download browser extensions from trusted sources. Check reviews and ratings before installing anything new.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): With 2FA, even if a hacker gets your session token, they can’t get into your account without a second form of identification, like a code sent to your phone.
Stay Safe Online!
Now that you know how session tokens work and how hackers can steal them, you’re one step closer to staying safe online. Always be cautious and remember to protect your accounts with strong passwords and two-factor authentication. Keep your VIP wristband to yourself, and don’t let any hackers crash your party!