How can you use a vulnerability scan to prevent TCP handshake spoofing?

When selecting a scanner to prevent TCP handshake spoofing, make sure it has protocol-specific checks for TCP handshake anomalies. Identify scanners with advanced capabilities that can analyze handshake deviations beyond typical checks. Consider open-source vulnerability scanners that have the flexibility to be customized. It is common for open source tools to permit users to expand functionality and implement specific checks for TCP handshake security.

OpenVAS, a vulnerability scanner that is open-source, is backed by a set of plugins. Set up the scan by choosing plugins that specifically deal with TCP handshake analysis and spoofing detection. Modify these files to incorporate custom checks that pertain to TCP handshake security. Ensure that the scanner can analyze dynamic packets during TCP handshakes if needed. Make adjustments to the settings to examine the packet's contents, structure, and timing for signs of spoofing. Make the reporting settings configurable to send alerts in real-time for TCP handshake spoofing incidents that are detected.

Access the OpenVAS interface via a web browser and initiate it. Create a new scanning task, choosing the hosts or IP addresses to scan. Decide on using a scan configuration for TCP handshake analysis or customize settings. Modify advanced options, including TCP handshake analysis, dynamic packet inspection, or custom plugins. Start the task to scan the specified targets. Monitor progress through the OpenVAS interface. Look for detected vulnerabilities, especially those related to TCP handshake spoofing. Review results post-scan, focusing on TCP handshake security findings. Investigate and address identified vulnerabilities as needed.

Implement network encryption (TLS/SSL), enable perfect forward secrecy for secure connections. Update and patch systems to eliminate vulnerabilities. Use network segmentation for critical system isolation. Deploy IDS/IPS to monitor and detect TCP handshake spoofing, set up firewall rules for access control. Review network logs for anomalies and respond to potential spoofing. Ensure secure system configurations and access controls. Integrate threat intelligence for up-to-date defense. Conduct regular security audits and vulnerability assessments. Perform penetration testing for realistic vulnerability identification. Implement continuous monitoring for prompt incident response.

One thing to consider is that automated scanners don't work very well. Often they don't throttle or avoid various elements of IDS and firewall rules. They are meant to catch the low-hanging fruit or really obvious problems. A smart threat actor isn't going to be obvious. They'll use something like my custom written infospace scanning tool or they'll devise their own using nmap or any of the other tools currently available for free. You should always test your public facing networks according to what APTs are most likely to be interested in compromising your security. Attack using their TTPs during penetration testing and you'll survive longer before a breach occurs.

In addition to the mentioned steps, consider the following measures to further enhance the prevention of TCP handshake spoofing Implement rate limiting Use strong authentication mechanisms Encrypt sensitive data Implement session timeout policies Regularly rotate encryption keys Apply principle of least privilege Monitor outbound traffic Implement honeypots or deception technology Collaborate with threat intelligence sharing platforms Regular employee training and awareness Implement behavior analysis tools Incident response planning