In a new upsurge to the security of e-Commerce, hackers have developed ways through which they are able to incorporate persistent credit card skimmers on swap files of shopping websites. These virtual memory files, are areas of a hard disk that stores data which is not in use in a system’s RAM and may contain important data like passwords, encryption keys and session data. Thus, hackers are able to insert their scripts into such files and obtain valuable information of the customers during the proceeding of online purchases. This complex technique was brought to light by researchers at Sucuri and reveals the aforementioned weakness in how computer systems handle data, especially in e-commerce environments.
What is Swap File?
Swap file also referred to as the page file is allocated by operating systems to accommodate data that cannot fit in the physical memory space of a system. This file actually stores data that is not immediately required in the RAM while using this RAM space for other processes. However, this mechanism is crucial for regulating operating system’s performance, it contributes to storing of critical data including passwords, data encryption keys as well as session information.
How the Attack Works?
Unfortunately, it is possible for hackers to take advantage of swap files and insert scripts that run whenever the user comes across the targeted website; particularly during the process of checking out. These scripts are intended to get specific details including credit card numbers, names, and addresses all of which are forwarded to the attackers. Additionally, the fact that these scripts do not disappear poses a significant threat in their presence. They are almost permanent in the system even when efforts are made towards their removal from the system. This was most recently witnessed in hacked Magento e-commerce platforms where the attackers were using concealed scripts and files to prevent their malware from being scanned and removed during security scans.
The Mechanism of Persistence
Another factor that complicates the fight against such an attack is the use of the ‘persist’ method by the hackers. They employ several measures that would help them in making the virus invisible and continue to operate even after attempted eradication. This means encoding the scripts in such a ways that they are invisible to the common detection equipment and placing them in random places that are usually neglected during the general cleaning processes. This is a clear pointer that no matter how much the website administrator may think they have contained the threat, the malicious code may still be running and therefore remains a constant menace to internet users.
Measures to Safeguard Your Ecommerce Site
To guard against more complex forms of attacks such as those involving swap file exploitation, e-commerce sites must therefore ensure that they employ a holistic security model. Here are some detailed steps to consider:
- Restrict Administrative Access
Important security feature need to applied is the limitation of administrative access only to a few pre-approved IP addresses. Implementing this measure of security will guarantee that individuals who are not permitted to enter sensitive areas of your system will not be able to access them freely. Furthermore, to boost the security of user accounts, it is recommended to utilize two-factor authentication or 2FA. By the use of 2FA, access to the system is only granted after the client provides two sources of identification unlike in the other common methods where a single source of identification is required thus making it very difficult for an attacker to infiltrate a system that has applied this method.
2. Deploy a Website Firewall
A web application firewall (WAF) plays vital role being one of the primary guardlines against cyber threats. It keeps track of the incoming traffic, denying any request that has a malicious intent and prevents unwholesome scripts from running. The main function of a WAF is in analyzing HTTP requests and recognizing signs of an attempted assault; by the time such attempts reach your code, they are already forestalled. It is recommended to update the firewall rules as often as possible so that the firewall is able to protect against new threats.
3. Regular Updates
Another important aspect is timely updates of the content management systems (CMS), plugins, and extensions. Hackers particularly like to take advantage of existing bugs that are known to be present in old applications. These are fixed by updates and patches that serve to lessen or eliminate such security flaws, thereby safeguarding the site. Where possible, it is advisable to automate the updates in order to make sure the site is protected without needing to constantly adjust the site. Furthermore, it is necessary to check your software list at certain intervals, and remove or update the entries that include obsolete or unsupported software.
4. Professional Cleanup Services
In case of a breach, it is essential to turn to professional services to clean up malware. These experts have the tools and the knowledge to effectively eliminate the malware, and bring back your corrupted files and settings, while also providing protection against such threats. They can assess all areas of your site, discover potential risks, and set up highly effective security measures designed around your site. Engaging the services of an experienced security company can offer constant assistance and vigilance, thus ensuring the security of a site.
The Final Words
The use of swap files to implant credit card skimmers is another perspective on the continued development of nefarious techniques by hackers as far as gain is concerned. As technology grows, the techniques used by hackers to breach networks and pilfer information also continue to evolve. The research therefore suggests that e-commerce platforms require a multi-level security strategy to enhance customer’s protection while shopping online. This also entails that measures should not only be put in place to provided technical safeguards but also educate users to be more security conscience. At e:command, we are the best in providing different levels of security in protecting the e-commerce sites. Get in touch with us to safeguard your online business now.
