Phishing attacks via URL rewriting to evade detection escalate

  • Reading time:6 mins read
  • Post category:AntivirusDon
  • Post comments:0 Comments
You are currently viewing Phishing attacks via URL rewriting to evade detection escalate
Representation image: This image is an artistic interpretation related to the article theme.

This process helps prevent malicious links from being opened by the email recipient.

What is URL Rewriting? URL rewriting is a security measure that protects email recipients from malicious links by wrapping URLs in a new link under the protection service’s domain. This process is also known as URL cloaking or URL masking. URL rewriting works by taking the original URL from an email and replacing it with a new link under the protection service’s domain. For example, if an email contains a link to a malicious website, the URL rewriting service will replace the link with a new link that looks like this:

https://example.com/secure/https://www.maliciouswebsite.com When the recipient clicks on the rewritten link, the service scans the URL for potential threats and blocks access to the malicious website if necessary.

Benefits of URL Rewriting

  • Prevents Malicious Links: URL rewriting helps prevent email recipients from opening malicious links, which can lead to phishing, malware, and other types of cyber threats. Protects Email Recipients: By scanning URLs for potential threats, URL rewriting protects email recipients from harm. Reduces Phishing Attacks: URL rewriting can help reduce phishing attacks by making it more difficult for attackers to trick email recipients into clicking on malicious links. ### Real-World Example**

    • Real-World Example

    A company called “SecureEmail” offers URL rewriting services to its customers. One day, a customer receives an email with a link to a malicious website. The customer clicks on the link, but the URL rewriting service scans the URL and blocks access to the malicious website. The customer is protected from harm, and the company’s reputation is preserved.

    Best Practices for URL Rewriting

  • Use a Reputable Service: Use a reputable URL rewriting service that has a good track record of protecting email recipients from malicious links.

    Sophisticated Phishing Attacks Evade Detection by Security Systems Through Double Rewrite Attacks.

    This makes it harder for security systems to detect the phishing emails.

    The Rise of Sophisticated Phishing Attacks

    Phishing attacks have been a persistent threat to cybersecurity for years. However, in recent times, attackers have been using more sophisticated techniques to evade detection by security systems. One of the most notable examples is the use of “double rewrite attacks.”

    How Double Rewrite Attacks Work

    In a double rewrite attack, a phishing email is rewritten twice by two different security vendors. This makes it harder for security systems to detect the phishing email, as the rewritten links may not be recognized as malicious by the security vendors. The first rewrite occurs when the phishing email is scanned by the first security vendor. The rewritten link is then sent to the second security vendor for further analysis. The second security vendor may rewrite the link again, making it even harder for security systems to detect the phishing email.

    The Impact of Double Rewrite Attacks

    Double rewrite attacks can have a significant impact on the effectiveness of security systems. If a security vendor is unable to detect the phishing email, it may not be able to block the malicious link, allowing the attacker to succeed in their attack. The attacker may be able to trick the user into clicking on the malicious link, which could lead to a range of negative consequences, including data theft, malware infection, and identity theft.

    The customer was tricked into entering their login credentials, which were then stolen by the phishing attack.

    The Anatomy of a Phishing Attack

    Phishing attacks are a type of cybercrime that relies on deception to trick victims into divulging sensitive information, such as login credentials, financial information, or personal data. The attackers use various tactics to create a convincing illusion, making it difficult for the victims to distinguish between legitimate and malicious communications.

    Types of Phishing Attacks

    There are several types of phishing attacks, including:

  • Spear Phishing: Targeted attacks that focus on specific individuals or groups, often using personalized information to increase the likelihood of success. Whaling: Attacks that target high-level executives or decision-makers, using sophisticated tactics to gain their trust. Smishing: Phishing attacks that use SMS or text messages to trick victims into divulging sensitive information. * Vishing: Phishing attacks that use voice calls to trick victims into divulging sensitive information. ### How Phishing Attacks Work**

    • How Phishing Attacks Work

    Phishing attacks typically involve the following steps:

  • Reconnaissance: The attacker gathers information about the target, such as their email address, login credentials, or financial information. Creating the Deception: The attacker creates a convincing illusion, often using a fake email or website that appears to be legitimate. Luring the Victim: The attacker uses various tactics to lure the victim into divulging sensitive information, such as a sense of urgency or a promise of a reward.

    This highlights the need for a more comprehensive approach to URL rewriting attacks, one that incorporates both dynamic and static analysis.

    Understanding URL Rewriting Attacks

    URL rewriting attacks are a type of cyber threat that involves manipulating URLs to bypass security controls and gain unauthorized access to sensitive information. These attacks can be launched using various techniques, including:

  • URL shortening: Attackers use URL shortening services to disguise malicious URLs, making them harder to detect. URL parameter manipulation: Attackers modify URL parameters to evade security controls and gain access to sensitive information. URL redirection: Attackers use URL redirection techniques to redirect users to malicious websites or landing pages. ## The Limitations of Traditional URL Scanning Services**

    • The Limitations of Traditional URL Scanning Services

    Traditional URL scanning services are often ineffective in detecting URL rewriting attacks. These services typically rely on static analysis, which can be easily bypassed by attackers using dynamic techniques. As a result, traditional URL scanning services may:

  • Miss malicious URLs: Traditional URL scanning services may miss malicious URLs that are generated dynamically or use complex URL rewriting techniques. * Require frequent updates: Traditional URL scanning services require frequent updates to stay effective, which can be time-consuming and resource-intensive.

    • Leave a Reply