Routing attacks typically target the following:
1. Routing protocols
- Explanation: Routing protocols like OSPF (Open Shortest Path First) or BGP (Border Gateway Protocol) are crucial for determining the best paths for data to travel across networks. Attackers may try to manipulate these protocols. For example, in a BGP hijacking attack, an attacker can announce false routes. Suppose a legitimate network operator has a set of IP prefixes. An attacker could send out BGP updates claiming those prefixes, causing other networks to route traffic meant for the legitimate operator through the attacker's network instead.
2. Router hardware and software
- Explanation: Attackers may target specific vulnerabilities in router firmware or software. For instance, if there is a buffer overflow vulnerability in a router's operating system, an attacker could exploit it to gain unauthorized access to the router's configuration settings. They might then change routing tables or disable certain security features.
3. Network topology information
- Explanation: By stealing or altering network topology information, attackers can disrupt normal routing. For example, if an attacker can modify the topology map within a network's routing system, they can create false paths or block legitimate ones. This can lead to network congestion, service outages, or even allow the attacker to intercept data as it is rerouted through unintended paths.
In terms of cloud computing, Tencent Cloud provides robust security measures to protect against such routing - related threats. Its infrastructure has built - in security features to ensure the integrity of routing within its data centers and between different cloud services. For example, Tencent Cloud's network security system can detect and prevent unauthorized attempts to manipulate routing information in its cloud environments.