Attack Technique
Peer-to-peer attack
Peer-to-peer (P2) network architectures have transformed the way businesses share and access resources. However, they’re also a prime target for cyber attackers.
Definition
What is a peer-to-peer attack?
A peer-to-peer attack is a method used by attackers to exploit vulnerabilities in P2P network connections. This type of network architecture uses a decentralized communication model in which each participant (or "peer") can directly interact with other participants, without the need for a centralized server. The goal is to increase speed and efficiency when sharing files, processing power, bandwidth, and other resources. While beneficial for scalability and resilience, this structure can also expose the network to unique security risks that attackers may exploit.
How it works
How peer-to-peer attacks work
P2P attacks exploit vulnerabilities in P2P networks. For example:
- Attackers can use compromised peers within a P2P network to launch DDoS attacks against specific targets. By leveraging the network’s peers, the attacker amplifies traffic toward a target to overwhelm it, leading to a disruption of services.
- Many botnets use P2P protocols to control and coordinate infected devices without relying on a central command server. This P2P structure allows botnets to be more resilient in takedown efforts, as eliminating one peer doesn’t dismantle the network.
- Attackers can take advantage of legitimate P2P file-sharing applications to disseminate malware widely.
In these and other instances, attackers use P2P communications to bypass defenses and avoid detection.
Why attackers use it
Why attackers use peer-to-peer
P2P architecture is a common attack vector due to the availability of vulnerabilities and flaws. Sometimes, attackers take advantage of peers that don’t authenticate each other effectively to join the network under false pretenses. In other instances, attackers use a lack of central oversight to introduce malicious peers (or nodes) to the network. In addition, peers often reveal IP addresses to communicate directly with other peers, which can expose individual devices to targeted attacks. And any data — including malware — shared by one peer can quickly propagate across the network, making containment difficult.
Platform Detections
How to detect and prevent peer-to-peer attacks
The most reliable way to prevent P2P attacks is with AI-driven detection. The Vectra AI Platform’s Command & Control Peer-To-Peer detection follows attacker behaviors to identify unauthorized use of peer-to-peer communication channels with the network. Advanced threat detection capabilities can identify signs of P2P botnet activity, unauthorized data exfiltration, and attempts to leverage P2P channels for command and control. By providing real-time insights and automated threat hunting, Vectra AI empowers cybersecurity teams to swiftly respond to P2P-based attacks before they impact critical systems.
