What does the term "account takeover" refer to?

The term "account takeover" specifically refers to a situation where an unauthorized individual gains control of a user’s account. This malicious action typically involves obtaining the account holder's credentials, such as usernames and passwords, often through phishing tactics, data breaches, or social engineering. Once the unauthorized person has access, they can manipulate the account, which may include accessing personal information, making unauthorized transactions, or even locking the legitimate user out.

Understanding this concept is crucial in the realm of cybersecurity, as it highlights the importance of implementing strong security measures, such as two-factor authentication and regular password updates, to safeguard user accounts from potential threats.