For decades, security experts and professionals in the computer industry have dealt with the problem of IP spoofing. This is mainly due to the ease with which it is possible to generate denial of service or DDoS attacks using this method of IP spoofing . Therefore, a specific filtering of outgoing traffic by Internet providers has long been necessary, where packets with source addresses outside the network are collected and discarded. Unfortunately, efforts and costs are the main reasons why, until now, this application has remained as such without anyone having managed to implement it.
Another reason for the reluctance of Internet providers is the apparent security features of the latest version of the IPv6 Internet protocol. Among other things, the official successor to the currently widespread IPv4 includes several optional authentication and encryption options for data packet headers that, in the future, could completely prevent IP spoofing. However, so far, the switch to the new addressing protocol has proven to be somewhat complicated, manifesting, for example, in the lack of IPv6 support for various common network devices.
To prevent an attacker from spoofing your IP address and using it for unscrupulous purposes, you have the ability to take the initiative by creating your own protection mechanisms. Thus, we recommend that you focus on the following two measures:
- Establish a comprehensive packet filtering solution for your router . This will be in charge of analyzing and discarding those packets whose source addresses do not come from the network itself. You will even have to take care of filtering outgoing packets with sender addresses that are outside your network, despite the fact that, in this sense, security experts consider it a duty of the service provider.
- Stay away from host-based authentication method . Make sure that all check-in methods are done over encrypted connections. In this way you will minimize the risk of an IP spoofing attack within your network and you will be setting important security standards.
On the other hand, it is also advisable to replace older operating systems and network devices (in case you are still using them). In this way, you will not only increase protection against IP spoofing, but you will also be protecting yourself against many other vulnerabilities.