Research | 2 mins
DNS (Domain Name System) misconfigurations are among the most critical cybersecurity risks identified in Hadrian's 2024 report - Mapping Cyber Risks from the Outside, making up a staggering 85% of high-severity risks found during external attack surface assessments.
This emphasizes just how vulnerable DNS systems can be and the serious threats that even small misconfigurations can create. But what makes DNS such an attractive target for cybercriminals, and how do misconfigurations leave organizations exposed to significant danger?
DNS Misconfiguration: a Gateway to Attackers
DNS servers function as the internet’s directory, connecting domain names to their respective IP addresses. A misconfigured DNS can unintentionally open the door for attackers to hijack this process, allowing them to redirect traffic, impersonate legitimate services, or manipulate web content. The most common DNS risk is related to “dangling” CNAME records — these records point to services or servers that may no longer be active. If a CNAME record’s target is decommissioned and goes unclaimed, attackers can take over that domain. This allows them to impersonate a legitimate site, redirect traffic to malicious destinations, and potentially capture sensitive data from unsuspecting users.
Phishing and Impersonation: Why Do DNS Misconfigurations Matter?
One of the most serious consequences of DNS misconfiguration is the ease with which attackers can launch phishing campaigns. By taking over a legitimate-seeming domain, attackers can craft phishing attacks that appear completely authentic. End-users often trust domain names, especially when they look familiar, and without security measures like DNS monitoring, organizations may remain unaware that their DNS configuration has been exploited.
The Solution: Continuous DNS Scanning and Proactive Risk Management
Given the high frequency and severity of DNS misconfigurations, organizations must take a proactive approach to DNS security. Continuous DNS scanning and monitoring can quickly identify and alert organizations to CNAME record issues or other misconfigurations, allowing for immediate remediation before they become exploitable by malicious actors. This approach — regularly scanning and adjusting DNS configurations — is essential to reducing the attack surface and preventing phishing campaigns from exploiting DNS vulnerabilities.
Hadrian’s approach to external attack surface management provides companies with continuous insights into DNS configurations, spotting misconfigurations that attackers are likely to target. By understanding and addressing DNS risks, organizations can protect their reputation, secure their data, and mitigate one of the most overlooked but dangerous vectors for cyber threats.
To learn more about how continuous monitoring can help your organization stay ahead of threats, download the full 2024 report - Mapping Cyber Risks from the Outside today.
