Sniffing attacks are sensitive data scams that are emerging more and more and is a technique put into practice by cyber pirates: this is what it is and how to defend yourself.

With the advent of computing devices, new attack techniques have emerged that endanger a range of the victim’s intimate and personal data. One of the most popular among criminals is sniffing, a technique of capturing all data packets traveling across a network using a software application or hardware device.

sniffing attacks
photo source: AdobeStock

Network traffic is simply the data that enters and leaves a computer network. The hacker can use the sniffing attacks to obtain in-depth information on the functioning of a network and on the behavior of its users. Which can also be used to improve an organization’s cybersecurity.

However, if employed by malicious hackers, sniffing can be used to launch devastating attacks against unsuspecting victims. Precisely because they are dangerous it is important to know what it is and above all how to defend against these attacks. Let’s see the details and how to prevent to avoid running into this uncomfortable episode.

Sniffing attacks, beware of hackers – that’s what they are

In its simplest form, sniffing is the act of intercept And to monitor traffic on a network. This can be done using software that captures all data packets that pass through a given network interface. Or by using hardware devices explicitly designed for this purpose.

Common targets of these attacks include unencrypted email messages, logon credentials, and financial information. There are several ways an attacker can capture packets passing through a network. Exist two kinds main sniffing attack: passive And active.

In an attack of passive sniffing, the hacker controls the traffic passing through a network without interfering in any way. This type of attack can be useful for gathering information (login credentials and e-mail). It does not involve any interference with target systems.

The active sniffing it is a type of attack that involves sending prepared packets to one or more targets on a network to extract sensitive data. By using specially crafted packages, attackers can often circumvent security measures that would otherwise protect data from interception.

How to protect yourself from sniffing?

There are many ways to protect your network from sniffing attacks. Some key measures include, for example, the use of the cryptography to protect sensitive data from interception. Never send sensitive information on an unencrypted connection. Ensure that all computers on a network are adequately protected with software antivirus And firewall.

Make sure the wireless network is secured using encryption WPA or WEP. Then you always have to update regularly all software and devices with the latest security patches. Then be aware of the type of traffic passing through the network and take steps to protect confidential information. Use a VPN when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks. And finally monitoring continuous network for unusual activities.

Join the group job offers, bonuses, disability and law 104, pensions and news

Receive every day for free the best articles on job offers, calls, bonuses, benefits and news. Choose the group you are interested in:

  1. Telegram – Basic group
Let's talk about "What are sniffing attacks and how can they be prevented?" with our community!
Start a new Thread

Philip Owell

Professional blogger, here to bring you new and interesting content every time you visit our blog.