What is Pharming?

Pharming is the act of directing users to a fake website that gathers their emails, passwords, and other credentials as the user enters the web page. These websites may also attempt to install malware or trojans onto the user’s computer.

This attack mainly targets financial websites in an attempt to gain the user’s credit card and other sensitive information.

The pharming technique

Pharming works by tricking a user’s DNS into redirecting the user to the hacker’s website in place of the original.

Pharming happens when a user visits an unsafe website that results in pharming malware being downloaded on the computer.

DNS maps a website to the IP address when a request to visit that webpage is made. PCs maintain a list of the Ip addresses of the most recently visited websites.

Pharming malware alters files by changing the IP addresses from the authentic webpages to the ones forged by the hacker. This results in every request to access the webpage being redirected.

Prevention

1. Check your Internet Service Provider (ISP): With the advancements in technology, ISPs are automatically able to filter out bogus redirects. Check your ISP’s security policy.

2. Check URLs: When visiting websites, make sure the URL matches the one typed. If it doesn’t, leave the website immediately.

3. Establish Secure connection: Ensure that the URL uses https. This guarantees that the packets are encrypted before being sent​ and that the webpage has proper digital certificates.

4. Download from the trusted sites: Websites offering torrent downloads, pirated Softwares, etc. tend to be fraudulent. Downloading from such websites may install malware.

5. Install antivirus and antimalware Softwares: Ensure that your computer is running the proper anti-virus software to increase system security.

6. Download site advisors: These applications test the websites for outdated certificates and ensure safe browsing.