IP protection: What can someone do with your IP?

Did you know that IP addresses can also pose cybersecurity risks?

Let’s set the scene: What exactly is an IP and what is it used for?

An IP address (Internet Protocol) is a unique identifier assigned to each device that connects to a computer network, whether through the Internet or a local network.

Without this identifier, there would be no communication or data exchange between devices.

Every device connected to a network has a unique IP address that distinguishes it from other devices on the same network. These IP addresses can be of two main types: IPv4 and IPv6.

IPv4 addresses use a 32-bit format consisting of four numbers separated by dots (for example, 134.768.1.1). In contrast, IPv6 addresses use a 128-bit format made up of eight groups of four hexadecimal characters (3005:0db7:75a3:0000:0000:7a2e:0356:0945). 

And if we talk about its function, we can identify two main roles. On one hand, it identifies the network interface of a device, and on the other, it provides addressing for the device’s location on the network.

There are two ways to assign an IP address: statically (permanent) or dynamically (changing) by the Internet Service Provider (ISP) or a local network server.

IP addresses are essential for communication on the internet, but they can also represent a significant cybersecurity vulnerability.

Cybersecurity issues related to IP addresses

Cybercriminals can use IP adresses to:

• Obtain your approximate location: They can track your geographical location with a certain degree of accuracy using geolocation databases.
  
  

• DDoS attacks: They can disable your network through a Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attack, which can make your internet connection unstable or completely inoperable.
  
  

• Identity spoofing: They can use your IP to try to access accounts on social media and other platforms, impersonating you or another team member.
  
  

• Malware infection: They can attempt to infect your device with malware to steal information or cause damage.
  
  

• Track your online activities: They can monitor your online behavior and collect data about your activities.
  
  

• Sell personal data: They can sell your information to third parties, who may then use it for malicious purposes.
  
  When a cybercriminal carries out any of the above actions, they are putting your company's cybersecurity and privacy at risk.

  How to protect an IP adress from cyberattacks

• Use a firewall: Implement a firewall to block unauthorized access to your network and monitor incoming and outgoing traffic.
  
  

• Antivirus and antimalware: Install and keep updated good antivirus and antimalware software to detect and remove threats before they can compromise your security.
  
  

• VPN (Virtual Private Network): Use a VPN to mask your real IP address, making it appear as though your connection comes from another location.
  
  

• Access restrictions: Limit the IP addresses that have access to your network to prevent unauthorized users from connecting.
  
  

• Secure passwords: Use strong and unique passwords for your router and network-connected devices to prevent unauthorized access.
  
  

• Software updates: Keep your operating system and all applications up to date to fix known vulnerabilities.
  
  By taking these actions, you will keep your IP addresses safe from cybercriminals and, in turn, protect your system and IT infrastructure.