Direct IP Address: Bypassing DNS Spoofing

TL;DR

Typing an IP address directly into your browser can bypass DNS spoofing, but it’s not a foolproof solution. It depends on how the attack is carried out and whether you’ve already cached incorrect DNS information.

Understanding DNS Spoofing

DNS (Domain Name System) translates website names (like google.com) into IP addresses (like 142.250.185.142). Spoofing happens when someone tricks your computer into using the wrong IP address for a website name, sending you to a fake site.

Can Typing an IP Address Help?

Yes, in many cases. Here’s why and how:

Step-by-Step Guide: Using Direct IP Addresses

1. Find the Correct IP Address: Before you start, you need to know the real IP address of the website. You can find this using a tool like nslookup or an online DNS lookup service.
• Using nslookup (Command Prompt/Terminal): Open your command prompt (Windows) or terminal (macOS/Linux). Type:

  nslookup google.com

  The output will show the IP address(es) associated with google.com.

• Online DNS Lookup: Search online for “DNS lookup” and use a reputable service to find the IP address.
2. Enter the IP Address Directly: Instead of typing www.google.com into your browser’s address bar, type the IP address you found (e.g., 142.250.185.142).
3. Check for HTTPS: Ensure the website uses HTTPS (look for a padlock icon in your browser’s address bar). This encrypts communication and adds another layer of security, even if you’re using the direct IP address.

Why it Works

When you enter an IP address directly, you bypass the DNS lookup process entirely. Your computer connects straight to that IP address, ignoring any potentially spoofed DNS records.

Limitations and Things to Consider

1. Cached DNS Records: If your computer has already cached a fake IP address from a previous spoofing attack, typing the correct IP address might not work immediately. You need to clear your DNS cache (see Step 4).
2. Attack Methods: Some sophisticated attacks don’t rely solely on DNS spoofing. They might modify files on your computer or intercept traffic at other points in the network. Direct IP entry won’t help with these types of attacks.
3. Website Configuration: Some websites are configured to only respond to requests made using their domain name, not directly via IP address. This is less common but can happen.

Step 4: Clearing Your DNS Cache

Clearing your DNS cache forces your computer to perform a fresh DNS lookup, getting the correct information.

• Windows: Open Command Prompt as administrator and type:

  ipconfig /flushdns

• macOS: Open Terminal and type (the command varies depending on your macOS version):

  sudo dscacheutil -flushcache; sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder

• Linux: The command depends on your distribution. Common commands include:

  sudo systemd-resolve --flush-caches

  or

  sudo /etc/init.d/networking restart

Step 5: Using a Reliable DNS Server

Consider using a public, reliable DNS server like Google Public DNS (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4) or Cloudflare DNS (1.1.1.1). These servers are generally more secure and less susceptible to spoofing attacks.

Step 6: Keep Your Software Updated

Ensure your operating system, browser, and cyber security software are up-to-date. Updates often include patches for vulnerabilities that attackers could exploit.