What is a DNS Leak?
A Domain Name System (DNS) leak is a security flaw that takes place when your DNS requests are involuntarily sent to a non-specified DNS server in lieu of the one you provided. DNS leaks can be a concern for your online security. Without properly configured DNS, these leaks can also ruin your Internet experience. With a DNS leak(s), your confidential information may become available to threat actors and we all know that only escalates to the potential loss of data, Ransomware, and other nefarious activities.
3 Immediate Steps on How to Prevent a DNS Leak
A few things you can do right now to avert DNS leaks:
- Make sure your Operating System (OS) is working as it should. Patch your system with your provider (Microsoft, Apple, various flavors of Linux to name three) recommended patches and maintain increased security. Do not let these updates lapse as one day of lapse may be the leak that starts cyber activity processes
- An incorrect Virtual Private Network (VPN) may cause a DNS leak; therefore, your information requested to a website you are querying may end up in the database of threat actors. Verify you have set the correct DNS.
- Routing handoff from Wi-Fi networks, cell towers, and the like may briefly lose its VPN connection. This may cause a DNS leak. It only takes a second of exposure to put you in a compromised position. Limit how and when you communicate through these networks.
The Cybersecurity Risk of DNS Leaks
When the above scenarios happen, threat actors can exploit the leak, grab your information in route, and further redirect internet traffic to their DNS servers where they will collect that information. The threat actors now have a great starting point to build an attack plan. Footprinting will take place, phishing attacks will start, among many other actions. This may result in Living Off the Land where the tools OS’s have are used against you. We all know what the threat actors are seeking and that is your financial resources.
Need Help Securing Your Network from a DNS Leak?
Have questions? Contact ION Technology Group today at 1.856.719.1818 or service@iontg.com. We can assist your business in identifying issues, such as Data Leaks, and further harden your defense perimeter. Our Tier III – Advanced IT Managed Services is your depth in defense. Happy surfing and stay safe.
