How infostealers turn stolen credentials into real identities

Bleeping Computer

by Sponsored by Specops Software

February 19, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Modern infostealers have evolved to steal more than just usernames and passwords—they harvest additional data such as browser cookies, browsing history, and system files, which allows attackers to link stolen credentials to real identities and behavioral patterns. By analyzing over 90,000 leaked infostealer dumps containing hundreds of millions of records, researchers found that these datasets enable threat actors to connect multiple accounts and activities back to a single individual, including their professional affiliations and organizational roles. This convergence of personal and professional identity data creates significant risks for enterprises, as compromised credentials can quickly escalate into broader security threats. The stolen data often includes credentials from professional services like LinkedIn, GitHub, Microsoft Teams, and corporate domains, which provide direct links to real names, job titles, and company affiliations. Attackers use this information for targeted phishing campaigns or to gain deeper access into enterprise environments. Additionally, personal identity data from platforms like YouTube, Facebook, and social media is frequently exposed, making it easier for threat actors to validate identities and exploit other linked accounts. The risks extend beyond account takeovers, as sensitive services such as government domains (e.g., IRS) and adult content platforms are also targeted. Access to these systems can lead to extortion or blackmail, especially when combined with an individual’s real identity and professional affiliations. This highlights the importance of understanding how stolen credentials can be weaponized to target both individuals and organizations. To combat this growing threat, tools like Specops Password Policy offer continuous scanning of Active Directory against a database of known-compromised credentials. By blocking the reuse of exposed passwords, even those that meet policy requirements, organizations can significantly reduce their risk exposure. This approach disrupts the cycle of credential abuse, helping to mitigate both personal and enterprise-level vulnerabilities. Understanding how infostealers exploit stolen data is critical for security professionals seeking to defend against increasingly sophisticated attacks. The ability of threat actors to link technical data to real identities underscores the need for proactive measures like continuous monitoring and password policies that prioritize account security across all environments.

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Originally published on Bleeping Computer on 2/19/2026