What is a "man-in-the-middle attack" in cybersecurity?

What is a “man-in-the-middle attack” in cybersecurity?

a) An attack where the attacker intercepts and manipulates communication between two parties

b) A method of encrypting data

c) A type of firewall used to block unauthorized access

d) A technique for speeding up network traffic

Answer:

a) An attack where the attacker intercepts and manipulates communication between two parties

Explanation:

A man-in-the-middle (MitM) attack is a type of cyberattack where an attacker secretly intercepts and manipulates communication between two parties without their knowledge. The attacker can alter the data being exchanged or steal sensitive information, such as passwords or credit card details.

MitM attacks are often executed on unsecured public Wi-Fi networks, where attackers can intercept data between users and the websites or services they are accessing. Encryption and secure communication protocols, such as HTTPS, can help protect against MitM attacks.

MitM attacks pose serious security threats, making it essential for users and organizations to implement strong encryption and network security measures to prevent unauthorized access to data.

Reference:

Computer Network MCQ (Multiple Choice Questions)