A Quick Guide To Pharming In Cybersecurity
Pharming, in cybersecurity, is a deceptive attack that redirects users from trusted websites to fraudulent ones without their knowledge. Similar to how Doctor Strange is tricked in the multiverse, pharming deceives internet users by manipulating Domain Name System (DNS) settings. Unlike phishing, which relies on clicks, pharming can silently reroute traffic through DNS cache poisoning or malware infections, leading to identity theft, financial loss, and more.
Pharming operates by exploiting vulnerabilities in DNS or infecting devices with malware, which alters DNS configurations. Once compromised, users are led to look-alike websites where their personal data is harvested by attackers. There are various types of pharming, including malware-based attacks, DNS cache poisoning, host file manipulation, and rogue DNS servers, all of which aim to mislead users into entering sensitive information on counterfeit sites.
Notable examples of pharming attacks include the DNSChanger attack in 2007 and a Venezuelan bank phishing incident. These highlight the severe impact of pharming, including financial losses, identity theft, and damage to reputation.
To protect yourself from pharming, use antivirus software, secure your DNS settings, choose reliable ISPs, and enable multi-factor authentication. Regular vigilance—such as verifying website security, spotting anomalies, and monitoring suspicious activity—can help prevent falling victim to these stealthy attacks.
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