Beware of Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) Attacks: Network Traffic Hijacking

Mass hijackings of network traffic and it’s abuse is not new, but with the evolution of technology, so do Man-in-the-Middle type of attacks.

A man-in-the-middle attack is an exploit that occurs when an outside attacker intercepts communications between two parties, often a website and an end user. The intruder will usually use the information to commit identity theft, digital theft, or fraud.

Man in the Middle attacks come in various forms:

  1. Man-in-the-Browser (MitB)
  2. Man-in-the-Mobile (MitMo)
  3. Man-in-the-Cloud

Examples of MitM attacks:

  • Wi-Fi eavstroddping
  • Email Hijacking
  • Session Hijacking
  • ARP poisoning
  • DNS spoofing
  • Port stealing
  • STP mangling

Essentially, the attack involves inspecting or modifying a victim’s traffic prior to the intended recipient receiving the information. attackers can re-route data to and from various businesses, government agencies, finance firms, and VOIP services.

Man-in-the-middle route hijacking is an important concern for businesses of all types, as it happens on a regular basis.

Man-in-the-middle hacking can even replace the requested website with one of its selection, which can cause minor or major damage. User’s browser is often redirected to a malicious site, an advertisement, or a fraud site, causing major implications for the end user’s identity and finances, and compromising the data. The fallout potential for man-in-the-middle hacking is growing, becoming a very real concern.

Protecting your Business Against Man-in-the-Middle Attacks

For businesses, regular monitoring of network traffic is important. It’s a good idea to offer two-factor authentication to customers, in order to add another layer of security during login attempts to access accounts.

Users’ should always take advantage of authentication credentials like tokens and various forms of two factor authentication for accounts. In addition, be careful with emails from unknown senders and avoid links to access secure websites, always type the URL into the browser instead. Whenever possible, avoid using public Wi-Fi to login to sensitive accounts.

  • Avoid using public, unsecured Wi-Fi network.
  • Even when using secure Wi-Fi, limit your use to activities that do not require authentication.
  • Manually log out of secured sessions whenever you’re not using them.
  • Use sites that force HTTPS protocol, whenever possible.
  • Apply multiple authentications to accounts if this option is available.
  • Use virtual private network (VPN) when online.
  • Get educated about phishing and practice internet safety.
  • Make sure that your router is configured securely as well.
  • Use unique, strong usernames and passwords.
  • Regularly monitor your network traffic.
  • Ensure a two-factor authentication for an additional layer of security for your employees and clients

 

Concerned about IT security in your New Jersey business?  Contact powersolution.com right now at (201) 4931414.  Our team of IT security and network security professionals will ensure your organization’s network is safe and secure.

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