DNS cache attack: understanding what happens

The data targeted by hacker attacks is quite varied. But the most targeted is the DNS. Generally, hackers attack its cache by poisoning it. The danger is that it is easy to do this even for an inexperienced hacker. This article details the phenomenon.

How does DNS hacking work?

Before looking at the DNS attack, it is good to know the element itself. Effective solutions for protecting this valuable data are only a click away on this page. The term DNS is used by computer experts to refer to the "Domain Name System". In short, it is a server that corresponds to a domain name. Humans perceive it as an IP address, which they can read. And its role consists in carrying out the requests launched by an Internet user on the web.

 Vulnerable, hackers poison it through its cache. This is done by inserting a few corrupted files in the DNS. Immediately affected, the connection to the latter migrates to another IP address. This one is entirely controlled by the hacker. This is why this attack, still called "pharming", is considered as IP address spoofing.

What does DNS poisoning cause?

Once the DNS is affected, a general infection follows. What is serious is that the victim is not aware of the problem. Since the hacker is sending signals from a fake DNS, everything seems normal. The connection seems secure and the source reliable. However, the Internet user runs the risk of downloading malicious software. The malware spread by the new IP address infects the victim's hardware. 

In addition, all his most sensitive data fall into the hands of the attacker. He can direct the target's email to the server under his control. Without the victim's knowledge, his or her e-mails are transferred to the hacker. During the whole operation, the user remains convinced that his connection is legitimate.