Client side attack - ties2/Red-Team GitHub Wiki

A client-side attack is a type of cyber attack that targets vulnerabilities in a user's computer or device, as opposed to attacking a server or network. Client-side attacks are becoming increasingly common and can be carried out in various ways, such as through phishing emails, drive-by downloads, and rogue websites. This essay will provide an in-depth look at client-side attacks, including examples, and sources.

some common types of client-side attacks:

  • Phishing attacks: Phishing emails are designed to trick users into giving away their sensitive information, such as usernames and passwords. Attackers often create fake emails that look like they are from legitimate sources, such as banks or social media sites, to lure users into clicking on malicious links.

  • Drive-by downloads: Drive-by downloads occur when a user visits a website that is infected with malware. The malware is automatically downloaded and installed on the user's computer without their knowledge or consent.

  • Rogue websites: Rogue websites are websites that are designed to look legitimate but are actually malicious. These sites may contain malware or phishing links that can compromise a user's system.

  • Malvertising: Malvertising is a type of client-side attack where attackers use legitimate ad networks to distribute malware. The attacker creates a malicious ad that is displayed on a legitimate website. When a user clicks on the ad, the malware is downloaded and installed on their computer.

  • Watering hole attacks: Watering hole attacks occur when attackers infect a legitimate website that is frequently visited by their target victims. When the target users visit the infected website, the malware is automatically downloaded and installed on their computer.

  • Man-in-the-middle (MITM) attacks: MITM attacks occur when an attacker intercepts communications between a user and a website or service. The attacker is then able to steal sensitive information, such as login credentials or financial data.

  • Cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks: XSS attacks occur when an attacker injects malicious code into a legitimate website. The code is then executed when users visit the website, which can allow the attacker to steal sensitive information.

  • Fileless attacks: Fileless attacks do not involve the installation of malware on a user's computer. Instead, the attacker uses tools and techniques that are already present on the user's computer, such as PowerShell or Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI), to carry out their attack.

  • Credential stuffing attacks: Credential stuffing attacks occur when an attacker uses a list of stolen usernames and passwords to try to gain access to multiple accounts across different websites.

  • Social engineering attacks: Social engineering attacks involve tricking users into giving away their sensitive information through tactics such as phishing emails, phone calls, or text messages.

Examples of Client-side Attacks:

  • The 2017 Equifax Breach: In 2017, Equifax suffered a major data breach that exposed the personal information of millions of customers. The breach was caused by a vulnerability in Equifax's website software. Attackers were able to exploit the vulnerability to gain access to customer data, including Social Security numbers, birth dates, and credit card numbers.

  • The 2019 WhatsApp Breach: In 2019, attackers were able to exploit a vulnerability in WhatsApp's messaging software to install spyware on users' phones. The attack targeted a specific group of users, including human rights activists and journalists. The spyware was able to access a user's camera, microphone, and location data.

  • The 2020 Twitter Hack: In 2020, attackers were able to gain access to high-profile Twitter accounts, including those of Barack Obama and Elon Musk. The attackers used a phishing attack to trick Twitter employees into giving them access to the company's internal tools. The attackers were then able to post tweets from the compromised accounts, which were used to promote a bitcoin scam.

  • The SolarWinds Hack: The SolarWinds hack is one of the most significant cyber attacks in recent years. The attack targeted SolarWinds, a software company that provides IT management tools to businesses and government agencies. Attackers were able to gain access to SolarWinds' software and insert malware into an update that was sent to customers. The malware was able to collect sensitive data from customers' networks, including email and document metadata.

Sources of Client-side Attacks:

  • Exploit Kits: Exploit kits are collections of tools and software that attackers use to exploit vulnerabilities in a user's computer or device. Exploit kits are often sold on the dark web and can be used by anyone with the technical knowledge to deploy them.

  • Malware: Malware is a type of software that is designed to damage or compromise a computer or device. Malware can be distributed through phishing emails, rogue websites, or drive-by downloads.

  • Social Engineering: Social engineering is a tactic used by attackers to trick users into giving away their sensitive information. Social engineering attacks can take many forms, such as phishing emails or phone