How do IPFS Phishing Attacks Work?

Phishing attacks involve tricking users into providing sensitive information such as login credentials or financial data by posing as a trustworthy entity. IPFS phishing attacks work in a similar way, with cybercriminals creating fake IPFS gateways to steal user data.

Here’s how it works: when users want to access files stored on the IPFS network, they typically use a gateway to retrieve them. These gateways act as intermediaries between the user and the IPFS network, serving as a proxy for the user's requests. Unfortunately, cybercriminals can create fake gateways that look just like the real ones, tricking users into sending their requests to the malicious gateway.

Once a user sends a request to a fake gateway, the attacker can intercept the request and replace the legitimate file with a fake one that contains malicious code. The user is then prompted to enter their login credentials or other sensitive information, which the attacker can steal.

How to be safe from IPFS Phishing Attacks?

To avoid falling victim to IPFS phishing attacks, there are several best practices to follow:

1. Always check the URL of the IPFS gateway before entering any sensitive information. Be wary of URLs that look suspicious or slightly different from the real gateway.

2. Use a trusted IPFS gateway. Check the list of recommended gateways from IPFS or use a gateway recommended by a reputable source.

3. Be cautious when accessing files from unknown sources. Verify the source of the files and check if they are known to be safe.

4. Enable two-factor authentication whenever possible. This adds an extra layer of security to your login process.

5. Keep your software and security tools up-to-date to prevent known vulnerabilities from being exploited.

IPFS phishing attacks are a growing threat that can be mitigated by following best practices for online security. By being vigilant and cautious when accessing files on the IPFS network, users can protect themselves from cybercriminals.