Microsoft Corp. is warning of an attack that could be used to divert someone's Web traffic through a malicious proxy server.
Applications such as Internet Explorer use the Web Proxy Automatic Discovery (WPAD) protocol to find a file that enables a browser to configure its proxy settings. However, it's possible to plant a configuration file that would route traffic through a malicious proxy, the company said.
A malicious WPAD.dat file could be placed in the Domain Name System (DNS) or the Windows Internet Naming Service (WINS), Microsoft said. The client application looks in DNS or WINS to resolve the name of the hosting that has the proxy configuration file.
Once the bad file is there, WPAD clients "may be able to route their Internet traffic through a malicious proxy server," Microsoft said.
Microsoft details on its support site how administrators can configure DNS and WINS on their servers to help prevent what it calls "malicious registrations" of WPAD files. The fix is for Windows Server 2003 and Windows 2000 Service Pack 4.
Microsoft wasn't immediately able to comment.
This whitepaper explains the terminology and concepts behind Data Replication technologies and establishes some sizing rules through worked examples. Learn the new paradigm in disaster tolerance—protect data anywhere.
Download now »Server virtualization is a popular option for dealing with mounting datacenter costs. Another equally promising approach is the use of an Application Delivery Controller. Citrix NetScaler provides a low-cost way for organizations to reduce their server count and accrue cost savings from a reduction in space, cooling, power and personnel.
Download now »
The emergence of WLANs has created a new breed of security threats to enterprise networks.
Included in HP ProCurve WLAN solutions is security technology that alleviates threats from WLANs through:
* Monitoring wireless activity inside and out of the enterprise
* Classifying WLAN transmissions into harmful and harmless
* Preventing transmissions that pose a security threat to the enterprise network
* Locating participating devices for physical remediation
Effectively address data protection challenges, implementing solutions that help store and protect businesscritical data while cutting costs and improving efficiency and reliability.
Download now »
Sign up to receive Platforms Resource Alerts
