In the modern world, protecting your data is essential. Countless individuals and corporations fall victim to cybercriminal activity every year. Man-in-the-middle hacking is one way these attackers can access private information.
If you aren’t familiar with this type of attack, the following information may concern you. Fortunately, you can speak to an IT consultant in Dallas, TX, to secure your networks and avoid digital mishaps. Read on to learn more about what you need to protect your sensitive data.
Understanding Man-In-The-Middle Hacking
Cybercriminals can gain access to your private information using dozens of strategies. One of the most common methods they use is man-in-the-middle (MITM) hacking. Essentially, the attacker infiltrates a network and “eavesdrops” on conversations or messages that enable them to break through digital security systems.
A man-in-the-middle attack can be devastating for individuals and even large-size businesses. Cybercriminals attempt to collect personal data, like banking information, and steal money from their victims. It can be challenging to stop an MITM attack once it begins.
Hackers operate in two phases to accomplish their goals: interception and decryption. Understanding how each step works will help you protect yourself from MITM attacks.
Interception
If you operate a poorly encrypted Wi-Fi router, you could be vulnerable to interception. During this phase, a cybercriminal will manipulate the DNS servers and scan the network traffic for vulnerabilities. Attackers can gain easy access by decoding weak passwords.
Alternatively, an attacker could use a method called cache poisoning. This hack requires the cybercriminal to inject false information into the DNS servers to redirect users toward malicious websites. At this point, they can gain access to users’ data and break into the network.
If an interception is successful, cybercriminals can observe network activity at any time without detection. Sometimes, they may even install malware that corrupts or steals data.
Decryption
During the second phase of an MITM hack, cybercriminals decrypt and translate stolen data. Using this information, hackers can commit identity theft, fraudulently make purchases, or even access webcams and private social media accounts.
Most MITM attacks that target individuals seek monetary gain. Still, as “hacktivism” culture grows with new technology and strategies, corporations are increasingly at risk for cyber disruptions and espionage. Rogue hackers often target businesses to sabotage operations or harm their public image.
How Hackers Gain Access
Let’s explore a few ways that cybercriminals carry out man-in-the-middle hacking. First, the attacker may try to imitate an established IP address. Often, this method misleads users into changing personal passwords or completing bank transfers.
Cybercriminals can develop fake secure socket layer (SSL) certificates that may appear to be legitimate networks to the untrained eye. Some victims believe they are accessing private networks when they are, in fact, entering a compromised connection.
Hackers commonly deliver attacks through email or direct message phishing. This method tricks users into voluntarily clicking on malicious links that steal their information. Although you can avoid this type of hack by deleting suspicious messages, you may be surprised to learn that it contributes to over three-quarters of reported cyberattacks yearly.
The Importance Of Strong Passwords
The above information may seem like attacks are inevitable. Fortunately, you can reduce the risk of hacks by reinforcing your networks with practical solutions. The first thing you should do is implement strong passwords across every platform.
Weak passwords are easy to predict, especially if a hacker has been watching your activity. Strong passwords are better to use because they are neither intuitive for the user nor the attacker. Consider changing your password every three months for the best protection.
Integrating a multi-layered verification system is also a great way to enhance digital security. This approach enables you to set passwords that require additional information. Common types of authentication include security questions, facial recognition, and physical USB or keycard access codes.
Authentication is becoming an increasingly popular method to deter hackers posing as employees.
Using A VPN
Virtual private networks (VPNs) can prevent man-in-the-middle hacking by setting up private networks across your entire digital infrastructure. A VPN hides your IP address while creating an encrypted space for sensitive data. In most cases, this method allows you to browse public Wi-Fi without risk.
You can enjoy many options when establishing a VPN. Certain companies offer third-party extensions that allow individuals to access these features. Alternatively, managed service providers can help you set up a trustworthy VPN throughout your company’s digital architecture.
How Can A Managed Service Provider Help?
Investing in a reliable managed service provider is the best way to avoid man-in-the-middle hacking. Professionals will assess your framework and identify its vulnerabilities. In most cases, they will install additional software to fortify the shared network.
Managed service providers can also deploy threat monitoring or end-point security systems that enable them to watch for suspicious activity. These programs notify IT when an attack is taking place. Some solutions also alert employees about threatening external emails or links.
IT technicians can segment a network efficiently to streamline workflow and contain attacks. This solution is generally a failsafe should other preventive methods break down. Still, it isolates sensitive data from the rest of the digital framework, minimizing loss.
Lastly, a managed service provider will be available at all times. They can answer employees’ questions and recommend solutions as they come up. These professionals have the knowledge to educate the company about safe computer practices.
Trusted Managed Service Providers
At Network Elites, we take pride in delivering outstanding cybersecurity solutions for our clients. Our consultants have years of industry experience, so you can be confident that your data is secure. We provide personalized services to different industries, including office spaces, industrial operations, and financial businesses.
Our consultants help you protect desktops, mobile devices, and more. Speak to our team to learn more about the different types of network attacks you could experience without a robust cyber security strategy.
Do you still have questions about man-in-the-middle hacking? Schedule a consultation with Network Elites. Call 972-235-3114 to connect with our headquarters in Carrollton, TX.
