DNS Hijack

Definition ∞ A DNS hijack is a cyberattack that redirects users attempting to access a legitimate website to a malicious one. This occurs when an attacker compromises a domain’s Domain Name System records, altering them to point to an unauthorized server. Users unknowingly connect to the attacker’s server, which often mimics the original site to steal credentials or funds. In the context of digital assets, this vulnerability poses a significant risk to cryptocurrency exchanges and wallet services.
Context ∞ News reports on DNS hijacks frequently surface when major cryptocurrency platforms experience security breaches, leading to user asset loss. The ongoing discussion emphasizes the critical need for enhanced security measures beyond traditional web protections, including multi-factor authentication and decentralized domain solutions. A critical future development involves the widespread adoption of blockchain-based domain name systems that are inherently more resistant to such centralized attacks. Users are advised to verify website authenticity through independent channels before inputting sensitive information.