A type of cybersecurity attack where an attacker secretly intercepts and relays messages between two parties who believe they are directly communicating with each other.
Description
A Man-in-the-Middle Attack (MitM) occurs when an attacker inserts themselves into a communication channel between two parties, often without either party being aware of the intrusion. This type of attack can happen in various forms, such as through unsecured Wi-Fi networks, where the attacker can capture and manipulate data being transmitted. For instance, in a public Wi-Fi setting, a hacker can use tools to intercept sensitive information like passwords and credit card numbers as users connect to the network. MitM attacks can also exploit weaknesses in protocols, such as HTTP instead of HTTPS, which does not encrypt data. Once the attacker has access, they can eavesdrop on conversations, alter messages, or impersonate one of the parties, leading to identity theft or financial loss. The rise in mobile and online communications has made MitM attacks more common, emphasizing the importance of using secure connections and implementing encryption protocols to protect sensitive information.
Examples
- An attacker intercepts an online banking session to steal login credentials.
- A hacker uses a fake Wi-Fi hotspot in a coffee shop to capture data from unsuspecting users.
Additional Information
- MitM attacks can be prevented by using VPNs and ensuring websites use HTTPS.
- Users should be cautious about connecting to public Wi-Fi networks without proper security measures.