Introduction

In today’s digital world, cyber attacks are a major threat to individuals and businesses. Two of the most common types of attacks are DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) and MITM (Man-In-The-Middle). This article explains what these attacks are, how they work, and how you can protect yourself from them.

What is a DDoS Attack?

DDoS stands for Distributed Denial of Service. This attack floods a website or online service with excessive traffic from multiple sources, causing it to slow down or crash.

• How it works: Attackers use a network of compromised computers, called a botnet, to send massive traffic to the target.

• Impact: The target website becomes unavailable to real users, leading to lost customers and revenue.

• Example: In 2016, the DDoS attack on Dyn disrupted major websites like Twitter, Netflix, and Amazon for hours.

What is a MITM Attack?

MITM or Man-In-The-Middle attack happens when an attacker secretly intercepts communication between two parties without their knowledge.

• How it works: The attacker can eavesdrop or alter messages between a user and a website or service, stealing sensitive information like passwords or credit card details.

• Impact: Personal data and login credentials can be compromised.

• Example: Public Wi-Fi networks are common places for MITM attacks, where hackers intercept data transmitted over the network.

How to Protect Yourself?

• Use firewalls and anti-DDoS protection if you manage a website.

• Avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive activities or use a trusted VPN.

• Always check for HTTPS in website URLs — it means your connection is encrypted.

• Keep your software and security tools up to date.

• Be cautious with emails and links from unknown sources.

Real-Life Case

The 2016 Dyn attack is one of the largest DDoS attacks in history. It used a massive botnet made of IoT devices (like cameras and routers) to overload Dyn’s servers. This attack caused a major internet outage, affecting millions worldwide and highlighting the importance of cybersecurity.

Conclusion

Understanding DDoS and MITM attacks helps you recognize potential threats and protect your data. Have you checked your online security lately? Taking simple precautions can save you from big problems online.