What is a man-in-the-middle(MitM) attack?

MitM is an attack that is accomplished when an attacker manages to intercept communications between two parties and modify them without the parties being aware. The attackers are able to either steal the confidential data or manipulate communications for fraudulent purposes.

How MitM Attacks Are Carried Out

The process of a man-in-the-middle attack can be simplified into two main stages: interception and decryption.

Interception

In the interception phase, the attacker tries to place his body between the client and Destination, quite often, a user and web application, or a network. 

How the attacker accomplishes the interception depends on the type of man-in-the-middle attack being executed. 

There are few methods the attacker would do this:

• ARP spoofing: is mainly used in the LAN environment, where the attacker maps his MAC address to the target's IP, hence making all the traffic that is sent to that IP reach him.
• DNS spoofing: it involves the manipulation and corruption of the DNS resolution process by an attacker with the intention of misleading users towards malicious websites, with the aim of stealing information from the users.
• Wi-Fi Eavesdropping: that is creating a fake hotspot in public places and thereby trapping innocent users into giving out their personal details, which is already tapped.

• SSL Stripping: SSL stripping attacks are those types of attack in which HTTPS connections are forced to be downgraded to unencrypted HTTP connections. This enables attackers to intercept and view plaintext information transmitted between the user and the server, which can potentially expose sensitive information.
• HTTPS Spoofing: HTTPS spoofing is those types of attack in which attackers create fake sites that pretend to be legitimate secure websites, as indicated by HTTPS in the URL. Attackers use tactics like phishing to lure users into visiting such fake sites and allowing them to log in and provide sensitive information, which the attacker captures.

What are the risks of (MitM) attacks?

• Data Interception: MitM attacks enable attackers to eavesdrop on sensitive information exchanged by parties. This can also contain personal data, login credentials, or confidential business information. 
• Data Tampering: MitM attackers are not only able to intercept data but can also modify the information before passing it on to the intended recipient. Data tampering takes many forms, such as changing transaction details, introducing malicious code, or manipulating the content of messages. In general, through the tampering of the integrity of the data, an attacker is able to deceive users, compromise trust, and bring about financial or reputational damage.
• Privacy Violation: MitM attacks violate the right to confidentiality and, in so doing, break the principle of privacy. Through interception and access to sensitive information, an attacker violates rights to confidentiality and may potentially expose individuals to surveillance, exploitation, or embarrassment.
• Identity Theft: MitM attacks could bring about identity theft since attackers could intercept authentication credentials or session tokens. Possession of such credentials allows an attacker to impersonate a legitimate user and, therefore, gets unauthorized access to accounts or systems, and performs fraudulent acts in the name of the victim.

How to safeguard against and mitigate the risk of Man-in-the-Middle attacks?

• Encryption: Require end-to-end encryption on all sensitive communications, and make all websites that require access to HTTPS. Encrypt sensitive emails using the encryption tool, secure wireless configurations with high encryption protocols such as WPA2 or WPA3.
• Network Security: Implement a strict network security method along with the provision of firewalls, intrusion detection systems.
• Awareness and Vigilance: Train users on the dangers of using public Wi-Fi and the importance of verifying website authentication before sending sensitive information. Encourage users to look into unsolicited communications.
• Two-Factor Authentication: Adding 2FA creates a second-level verification that will make it hard for anyone to access a user's account without their knowledge.
• Regular Updates and Patch Management: Ensure that all software and systems are updated with the latest security patches closing off possible vulnerabilities that may be exploited in a MitM attack.
• VPN Use: Advise users to use VPNs when accessing public Wi-Fi because VPNs encrypt the traffic, and therefore, protect it from attempts of interception.

Man-in-the-Middle attacks pose a grave threat to digital security and privacy today. By understanding the risks and implementing rigid prevention measures, both individuals and organizations can better protect themselves against these invasive cyber threats. It’s crucial to stay informed and vigilant to navigate safely in the digital world.