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Security Operations · Intermediate

Pharming

Redirecting users from a legitimate website to a fraudulent one by manipulating DNS or host files.

Definition

Pharming works even when users type the correct address, because the name resolution itself is poisoned through DNS cache poisoning, malicious hosts file entries or compromised routers. Victims then enter credentials on the fake site. DNSSEC, endpoint protection and HTTPS certificate validation help.

Example

Malware adds an entry to the hosts file mapping the bank's domain to an attacker IP.

Exam tip

Pharming redirects without the user clicking a malicious link, unlike phishing.

Don't confuse it with

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