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One of the most significant and recent development in network attacks is Distributed Denial of Service (DDOS) attack. This attack aims to make network resources unavailable to its intended users. The attacker targets a large number of machines and simultaneously installs various attack programs in them. DDOS attack frequency has increased globally, with anti-virus programmers struggling to develop new ways of countering such attacks. Some of the most famous DDOS attacks are listed below:
- Spamhaus Attack: This was the deadliest DDOS attack, to date. On 18 March 2013, this attack targeted the website of Spamhaus (a non-profit organization). The attack was 3 layered and powerful enough to saturate Spamhaus’ connection to the rest of the world.
- Lockheed Martin Attack: A major DDOS attack was launched against USA’s largest defense contractor Lockheed Martin in 2011. The attackers exploited Martin’s VPN access system and could have accessed sensitive defense information and contracts. Luckily, it was detected and stopped within a short time.
- Cyber Fighters: In 2012, a Middle Eastern hacking group called “Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Cyber Fighters” used powerful DDOS attacks to destroy US Banking institutions. This group remains at large while authorities struggle to counter their modifying scripture techniques.
There have been cases where the motive of attacker is to seek ransom. This was the case of the hacker alias “Mafiaboy” who tried to destroy Amazon, Yahoo and Google using DDOS attacks in 2001. However, due to the fact that he was a minor during the time of crime, he was sentenced to eight months of open custody, a year’s probation and a fine of $250.
Certain steps can be taken to protect a computer from DDOS attacks. These steps include:
- Buying more bandwidth
- Locking down your DNS server
- Enhancing DNS security and protection
- Using effective Firewalls; and
- Block unwanted traffic on the internet.
Works Cited
Lambert, Patrick. DDoS attack methods and how to prevent or mitigate them. Montreal, 25 October 2012. Article.
