What is a man-in-the-middle attack and how does it work in network security? Learn how MITM attacks intercept and alter traffic between devices, posing serious risks to data integrity and confidentiality—essential for Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST) Networking 100-150 exam success.
Table of Contents
Question
What type of attack involves intercepting and altering network traffic between two devices?
A. Phishing
B. DDoS
C. Man-in-the-middle attack
D. SQL injection
E. Ransomware
Answer
C. Man-in-the-middle attack
Explanation
A MITM attack occurs when an attacker intercepts and modifies communications between two legitimate devices.
The attack that involves intercepting and altering network traffic between two devices is a man-in-the-middle (MITM) attack.
In a MITM attack, an attacker secretly positions themselves between two communicating parties—such as users, applications, or devices—without their knowledge. The attacker can intercept, read, and modify the data being exchanged, making it appear as though the communication is normal to both parties.
This attack can be carried out using various techniques, including ARP spoofing, DNS spoofing, Wi-Fi eavesdropping, and IP spoofing. The attacker may passively eavesdrop or actively alter the traffic, injecting malicious data or redirecting communications to fraudulent destinations.
The main objectives of a MITM attack are to steal sensitive information (such as login credentials, financial data, or personal messages), manipulate transactions, or disrupt communications. Attackers may also inject malware or false data into the communication stream.
MITM attacks are particularly dangerous because they undermine the trust and integrity of network communications, allowing attackers to bypass authentication, steal confidential data, and compromise entire systems.
A MITM attack occurs when an attacker intercepts and modifies communications between two legitimate devices, enabling eavesdropping, data theft, and manipulation of network traffic.
Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST) Networking 100-150 certification exam practice question and answer (Q&A) dump with detail explanation and reference available free, helpful to pass the Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST) Networking 100-150 exam and earn Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST) Networking 100-150 certification.