IP Spoofing: Learn Definition & Ways to Protect Data from It

What Is IP Spoofing

Internet protocol (IP) spoofing is a way for hackers to launch an attack. Hackers create modified IP address data, which pretends to come from a trusted source, to impersonate the source or the receiver.

In every IP package, there is an IP header that contains the source IP address, destination IP address, data, and other important information. However, a spoofing IP package contains an altered IP header, which makes the device forget the source IP, providing hackers an approach to access the devices. As the spoofed IP address seems to be coming from the trusted source, neither the source device nor the destination one can identify it and block it.

Once IP spoofing happens, it is hard to stop in the middle as the source address is fake. Thus, hackers make use of IP spoofing to launch attacks, as follows:

• Denial of Service: Hackers get access to the target via IP spoofing, and then send amplified data packages to the target device, resulting in the computer network offline.
• Man in the middle: IP spoofing enables hackers to hide from both the source and destination devices. Without recognition, hackers can read and modify all the communications before the other party receives the information. Once hackers obtain the sensitive information, they may take further action, such as fraud, theft of identity, etc.
• Hybrid spoofing attack: The combination of IP spoofing and DNS spoofing leads the target to a fake website, where hackers can send malware or infect your device with viruses.
• Etc.

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How to Prevent IP Spoofing

As IP spoofing can lead to a damaged result on your computer, it is necessary to carry out efficient ways to prevent IP spoofing in advance. Here are some precautionary tips:

• Keep antivirus software up to date: Eligible antivirus software is able to detect and prevent malicious software and viruses. Always updating your antivirus software ensures that you obtain the latest security patches and malware detection skills.
• Encrypt your network: Compared with common network traffic, encrypted traffic is harder for hackers to spoof. Hence, you can try to surf the internet via a VPN, which will hide your actual IP address and encrypt your internet traffic. MiniTool VPN can be a trustworthy option for you. 
• Be careful of phishing email: Hackers may get sensitive information and then commit fraud via phishing emails. You should learn how to spot and avoid phishing emails. Remember to verify information on official websites before taking action.

How to Protect Data from IP Spoofing

IP spoofing has a significant threat to sensitive information for both business and individuals. Hackers can ransom or steal your data and personal information via IP spoofing. In addition to learning methods to prevent it, it is also necessary to learn how to protect data from IP spoofing.

>> You are highly advised to encrypt crucial files to prevent unauthorized access. Both device-embedded utilities and third-party software are OK. Additionally, backing up files is a wise option to avoid file loss. If needed, you can use MiniTool ShadowMaker to perform automatic file backup. Get this software to experience its robust backup features for free within 30 days.

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>> Once your files are lost or ransomed on your device, try to recover them with the help of professional data recovery software, MiniTool Power Data Recovery.  This free file recovery software is able to recover lost files that are caused by a virus infection, disk failure, partition loss, and other reasons. Get it from the official website and get your files back!

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Final Words

Compared with direct virus attack, IP spoofing can lead to more severe results on your device and individual information. This post gives basic instruction and prevention of IP spoofing. Hope here is useful information for you.