: Beyond passwords, these files may contain cleartext metadata that provides further paths for penetration testing or lateral movement within a network. 3. Mitigation and Prevention

intitle:"index of" "config.php.bak" – Looks for exposed backup configuration files which often hold database passwords.

be stored in plain text and details the use of salts and high-work-factor hash functions to prevent brute-force attacks. A Text-based Authentication Scheme

Automated tools gathering data from infected devices.