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MITM_Attack

A Man-in-the-Middle (MITM) attack is a cybersecurity threat where an attacker intercepts communication between two parties to eavesdrop, alter messages, or steal sensitive data. Common types of MITM attacks include Wi-Fi eavesdropping, session hijacking, and SSL stripping. Preventative measures include using secure networks, enabling HTTPS, employing multi-factor authentication, and monitoring network activity.

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2 views

MITM_Attack

A Man-in-the-Middle (MITM) attack is a cybersecurity threat where an attacker intercepts communication between two parties to eavesdrop, alter messages, or steal sensitive data. Common types of MITM attacks include Wi-Fi eavesdropping, session hijacking, and SSL stripping. Preventative measures include using secure networks, enabling HTTPS, employing multi-factor authentication, and monitoring network activity.

Uploaded by

quickfixgco
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Understanding Man-in-the-Middle (MITM) Attacks

A Man-in-the-Middle (MITM) attack is a cybersecurity threat where an attacker


intercepts communication between two parties without their knowledge. The attacker can
eavesdrop,
alter messages, or steal sensitive data, such as login credentials and financial information.

## How a MITM Attack Works


1. **Interception**: The attacker gains access to a network or communication channel, often by
exploiting unsecured Wi-Fi networks, compromised routers, or malware-infected devices.
2. **Data Capture**: The attacker intercepts and reads transmitted data, such as login credentials
or financial transactions.
3. **Data Manipulation**: In some cases, the attacker modifies messages before forwarding them,
leading to fraud, credential theft, or injecting malicious payloads.

## Common Types of MITM Attacks


- **Wi-Fi Eavesdropping**: Attackers set up rogue Wi-Fi hotspots to capture data from unsuspecting
users.
- **Session Hijacking**: Attackers steal session tokens or cookies to gain unauthorized access to
accounts.
- **SSL Stripping**: A method where attackers downgrade secure HTTPS connections to
unencrypted
HTTP to capture login credentials.
- **DNS Spoofing**: Redirecting users to fraudulent websites by altering domain name system
(DNS)
responses.
- **ARP Spoofing**: Attackers send fake Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) messages to associate
their MAC address with a legitimate IP address, allowing them to intercept network traffic.

## Real-World Examples of MITM Attacks


- **Superfish Malware (2015)**: A pre-installed adware program on Lenovo laptops intercepted
encrypted web traffic, compromising user security.
- **Evil Twin Attacks**: Cybercriminals have frequently used fake Wi-Fi hotspots in public places
to steal user credentials.
- **Government Surveillance (PRISM Program)**: Leaked documents revealed that intelligence
agencies
have conducted large-scale MITM surveillance activities.
## How to Prevent MITM Attacks
- **Use Secure Networks**: Avoid connecting to public Wi-Fi without a VPN (Virtual Private
Network).
- **Enable HTTPS Everywhere**: Ensure websites use HTTPS to encrypt data transmission.
- **Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)**: Adds an extra layer of security to prevent unauthorized
access.
- **Keep Software Updated**: Ensure browsers, operating systems, and security patches are up to
date.
- **Use Encrypted Communication**: Applications like Signal, WhatsApp, and TLS-encrypted emails
protect against eavesdropping.
- **Monitor Network Activity**: Employ intrusion detection systems (IDS) to detect anomalies.

## Conclusion
Man-in-the-Middle attacks pose a significant risk to online security, but with proper safeguards,
users and organizations can mitigate these threats. By adopting strong encryption, secure network
practices, and authentication measures, individuals can protect their sensitive data from being
intercepted by malicious actors.

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