The Importance Of Ensuring Domain Infrastructure Security

Uploaded on 2024-11-07 in TECHNOLOGY--Resilience, FREE TO VIEW, BUSINESS-Services-IT & Telecoms

Domain names are the backbone of the internet. They guide our online interactions, serving as a backdrop for websites, emails and other digital communications. The role they play seems very simple, however domain names play an important role in protecting our digital infrastructure in more ways than one.

With cyberattacks targeting the domain name system (DNS) with regularity and sophistication, it is critical to understand the vulnerabilities, as well as possible best practices for protecting online integrity.

In our interview with Ram Mohan, Chief Strategy Officer at Identity Digital, he explores the role of domain names in maintaining online safety, as well as how they impact economic growth. He also shares advice for organisations in mitigating future cybersecurity risks.

Q: The Domain Name System (DNS) has been described as the backbone of the internet. What is the reason for this?

The DNS acts as a translator that converts domain names into IP addresses, which allow browsers to get to websites and other internet resources. The DNS also helps maintain the critical infrastructure, stability, resilience and security of domains. The widely distributed DNS ensures that drops in regional service have little to no effect on a website’s availability. Combined with modern techniques such as caching and Content Delivery Networks (CDNs), the DNS brings phenomenal performance and capacity for users to reach the websites and internet resources they want.

Q: What is the role of domain registries in combating phishing attacks and protecting critical infrastructure?

Domain registries are responsible for managing the top level domains (TLDs) of the internet. They are the key to a secure and trusted online experience. Without reliable registries, the internet would lack the organisation and accessibility needed for users to find and access information online.

Registries play an important role in combating domain name-based attacks by implementing various measures to prevent the registration of phishing domains, including automatic detection systems and working closely with law enforcement agencies. They also protect critical infrastructure, by collaborating with network operators and government agencies to monitor and take action on suspicious activity.

Q: What is the impact of domain name security on digital transformation and economic growth?

Domain names are essential for protecting brands and individuals, and for business continuity. By protecting domain names, registries help mitigate disruptions in business operations which can be caused by DDOS attacks, data breaches, compromised credentials and hijacked websites. As many know, breaches can be detrimental to brands, leading to loss of trust and customers, and costing millions. Therefore, the security of the online ecosystem is instrumental for maintaining stable infrastructure - without it there is no innovation, growth, or economic development.

Q: Can you share any best practices for organisations to mitigate domain name-related risks?

With new forms of phishing tactics and domain hacks continuing to evolve, it is important that individuals and businesses alike, learn to protect themselves and their business(es) from online dangers with simple, effective steps:

Lock down your critical domain names. You can ask your domain name registrar, or in some cases, the domain name registry, to securely lock these names so they cannot be transferred away from you fraudulently.

Use strong, unique passwords to avoid compromised credentials leading to data breaches.
Take advantage of Two Factor Authentication at your domain registrar. If they don’t offer it, switch to a more secure registrar.

Create a proactive and comprehensive plan to immediately address security breaches as they happen and quickly mitigate the associated risks.

Monitor DNS traffic for suspicious activity on a regular basis to help spot unusual and unauthorised patterns.

Educate employees on the risks involved with domain name-based attacks, including what kinds of attacks to watch out for, as this can help them spot any phishing attempts and report them to the right channels.

Image: Madmaxer

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