Dns poisoning

Definition

DNS poisoning, also known as DNS spoofing, is a cyber attack that manipulates the Domain Name System (DNS) data to redirect users from legitimate websites to malicious ones. This tactic exploits the way DNS translates human-readable domain names into IP addresses, effectively misleading users and enabling cybercriminals to intercept sensitive information or distribute malware.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. DNS poisoning can be executed through various methods, including cache poisoning and man-in-the-middle attacks, where the attacker intercepts DNS requests and responses.
2. Once a user's DNS settings are poisoned, they can be redirected to fake websites that closely resemble legitimate ones, leading to credential theft or malware installation.
3. This type of attack poses a significant threat to internet security as it undermines the foundational trust in the DNS system itself.
4. Organizations often implement security measures like DNSSEC (Domain Name System Security Extensions) to help prevent DNS poisoning attacks by ensuring the integrity of the DNS data.
5. The consequences of successful DNS poisoning can include financial loss for businesses, identity theft for individuals, and a general erosion of trust in online services.

Review Questions

• How does DNS poisoning manipulate the way users interact with the internet and what are its immediate effects?
  • DNS poisoning alters the normal functioning of the Domain Name System by providing false information about website addresses. When a user attempts to access a legitimate site, they may instead be directed to a malicious one without their knowledge. This manipulation can lead to immediate consequences such as credential theft, unauthorized access to personal information, and exposure to malware, significantly impacting user security.
• In what ways do DNS poisoning attacks challenge the overall security framework of internet governance?
  • DNS poisoning attacks undermine internet governance by compromising the integrity and trustworthiness of the Domain Name System. As DNS serves as a fundamental infrastructure for navigation on the web, successful attacks can result in widespread misinformation and security breaches. This raises concerns about the effectiveness of existing governance mechanisms and necessitates stronger protective measures like DNSSEC to secure DNS transactions against manipulation.
• Evaluate the long-term implications of DNS poisoning on user trust in digital platforms and the potential policy responses needed to mitigate such threats.
  • The long-term implications of DNS poisoning on user trust in digital platforms are profound, as repeated instances can lead to skepticism about online safety and a decrease in overall internet usage. Users may become more hesitant to share personal information or conduct transactions online if they perceive a lack of security. To address these threats, policymakers may need to consider implementing stricter regulations on cybersecurity practices for service providers, promoting awareness campaigns about safe browsing habits, and investing in research for advanced protective technologies that enhance DNS integrity and resilience.

Related terms

Domain Name System (DNS): A hierarchical system used to translate human-readable domain names (like www.example.com) into IP addresses that computers can understand.

Malware: Malicious software designed to harm, exploit, or otherwise compromise computer systems, often used in conjunction with DNS poisoning to distribute harmful content.

Phishing: A fraudulent attempt to obtain sensitive information by disguising as a trustworthy entity in electronic communication, often utilizing DNS poisoning techniques.