DNS Spoofing – North IT

To understand what DNS spoofing is, we must first understand what Domain Name System (DNS) is and how it works.

A contact list for the internet with multiple servers across the globe. The system stores domain names like example.com and the IP address assigned to the website. Using this, we as users can enter a website name like Google.com and the DNS will check its library to find the IP address assigned to that domain. If one is found, the DNS will direct your computer to that website.

What is DNS Spoofing?

Okay so what is DNS spoofing? This is a type of cyber-attack where hackers put fake URLS into a DNS library. This then redirects users to what they think is a real website, when in fact without knowing it, they have just opened a fake website.

These are called landing pages, which can be used to steal your data, download malware to your computer and network, or conduct phishing campaigns such collecting your usernames and passwords credentials. The last one is a very popular attack, with many people like you who get emails that link to these pages.

How Does DNS Spoofing Work?

Here are some of the ways DNS spoofing can be used:

Cache Poisoning: Attackers change a DNS library with their own IP address mappings. When users search for a legitimate website, they are unknowingly redirected to the attacker’s website.
Man-in-the-Middle (MITM) Attacks: Hackers listen to your network traffic and work out what DNS servers you are using. Using this information, they can convince the DNS that they are you, and your computer that they are the DNS. Positioning themselves between the you and the DNS resolver, capturing and modifying DNS responses in real time. Meaning they can see your network traffic (mostly encrypted by HTTPS) and try to determine what you view.
Compromised Authoritative DNS Servers: Attackers exploit vulnerabilities in authoritative DNS servers, altering DNS records at the source.

Consequences of DNS Spoofing

The impact of DNS spoofing can be severe, affecting both individuals and organisations:

Credential Theft: Users redirected to phishing sites, enter sensitive information such as login credentials, which hackers store and either use themselves or sell to the highest bidder on the dark web.
Malware Spreading: Fake websites may ask users to download software related to the website that is malware disguised as legitimate software updates.
Financial Fraud: Hackers can pose as banking websites, which can lead to unauthorised transactions and financial losses.
Business Reputation Damage: Organisations suffering from DNS spoofing attacks may lose customer trust, affecting brand reputation and revenue.

Preventing DNS Spoofing

To mitigate the risk of DNS spoofing, organisations and individuals should adopt several security measures:

Use DNSSEC (DNS Security Extensions): DNSSEC adds cryptographic signatures to DNS records, ensuring authenticity and integrity.
Enable Secure DNS Protocols: DNS over HTTPS (DoH) and DNS over TLS (DoT) encrypt DNS queries, preventing interception.
Clear DNS Cache Regularly: This will stop reliability on DNS caches that may have poisoned entries.
Monitor and Update DNS Infrastructure: Keeping DNS servers up to date helps mitigate known vulnerabilities.
Use Reputable DNS Providers: Leveraging secure DNS resolvers from trusted providers can reduce the risk of cache poisoning attacks.
Educate Users: Awareness training on phishing and cyber threats can help users recognise and report suspicious activity.

Conclusion

DNS spoofing is a big security threat that attacks the trust users place in the DNS infrastructure. By understanding how these attacks work and implementing security measures, individuals and organisations can mitigate the risk with DNS spoofing. As cyber threats continue to evolve, adopting proactive security strategies is essential in safeguarding internet communications and preventing malicious redirections.