Secure Sockets Layer Stripping vs. Skimming

Attribute	Secure Sockets Layer Stripping	Skimming
Definition	Removing the SSL encryption from a website to intercept sensitive information	Illegally capturing data from the magnetic stripe of a credit or debit card
Target	Websites using SSL encryption	Credit or debit card users
Method	Exploiting vulnerabilities in the SSL/TLS protocol	Using skimming devices on ATMs or point-of-sale terminals
Impact	Potential exposure of sensitive data	Financial loss and identity theft

Introduction

Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) stripping and skimming are two common methods used by cybercriminals to intercept sensitive information transmitted over the internet. While both techniques aim to exploit vulnerabilities in SSL encryption, they differ in their approach and impact on security. In this article, we will compare the attributes of SSL stripping and skimming to understand their differences and implications for cybersecurity.

SSL Stripping

SSL stripping is a technique used by hackers to downgrade a secure HTTPS connection to an unencrypted HTTP connection. This allows the attacker to intercept and read the data being transmitted between the user and the server. The attacker typically achieves this by exploiting vulnerabilities in the user's browser or by using a man-in-the-middle attack.

One of the key attributes of SSL stripping is its stealthy nature. Since the user is unaware that their secure connection has been downgraded, they continue to transmit sensitive information thinking it is encrypted. This makes SSL stripping a dangerous threat to cybersecurity, as it can lead to the exposure of usernames, passwords, and other confidential data.

Another attribute of SSL stripping is its ability to bypass security measures such as HSTS (HTTP Strict Transport Security) and certificate pinning. By intercepting the initial HTTPS request and redirecting it to an HTTP connection, the attacker can circumvent these security protocols and gain access to sensitive information.

Overall, SSL stripping poses a significant risk to cybersecurity by undermining the integrity of secure connections and exposing sensitive data to potential interception by malicious actors.

SSL Skimming

SSL skimming, also known as formjacking, is a technique used by cybercriminals to inject malicious code into a website's payment form. This code captures the credit card information entered by users and sends it to a remote server controlled by the attacker. SSL skimming is often carried out through vulnerabilities in third-party scripts or plugins used on the website.

One of the key attributes of SSL skimming is its targeted nature. Attackers specifically focus on websites that process online payments, as they are more likely to contain valuable credit card information. By injecting malicious code into the payment form, the attacker can capture this information without the user's knowledge.

Another attribute of SSL skimming is its persistence. Once the malicious code is injected into the website, it can continue to capture credit card information from unsuspecting users over an extended period. This makes SSL skimming a lucrative tactic for cybercriminals looking to profit from stolen credit card data.

Overall, SSL skimming poses a significant threat to e-commerce websites and their customers by compromising the security of online transactions and exposing sensitive financial information to potential theft.

Comparison

• SSL stripping downgrades secure HTTPS connections to unencrypted HTTP connections, while SSL skimming injects malicious code into payment forms on websites.
• SSL stripping intercepts data transmitted between the user and the server, while SSL skimming captures credit card information entered by users on compromised websites.
• SSL stripping is stealthy and can bypass security measures like HSTS, while SSL skimming is targeted at websites processing online payments and is persistent in capturing credit card data.
• Both SSL stripping and skimming pose significant risks to cybersecurity by exposing sensitive information to potential interception and theft by malicious actors.

Conclusion

In conclusion, SSL stripping and skimming are two distinct techniques used by cybercriminals to exploit vulnerabilities in SSL encryption and compromise the security of online communications and transactions. While SSL stripping downgrades secure connections to unencrypted ones, SSL skimming targets payment forms on websites to capture credit card information. Both techniques pose significant risks to cybersecurity and highlight the importance of implementing robust security measures to protect sensitive data from interception and theft.