Detecting and Preventing DNS Hijacking on Windows PC

DNS hijacking is a malicious attack in which cybercriminals redirect web traffic to fraudulent websites by manipulating the Domain Name System (DNS). It can result in phishing attacks, malware infections, and even data theft. If you’re using a Windows PC, safeguarding against DNS hijacking is crucial.

Fortect guide will walk you through detecting DNS hijacking and provide steps to prevent it on your Windows device.

What is DNS Hijacking?

DNS hijacking, or DNS redirection, is a cyberattack in which attackers compromise DNS servers or modify DNS settings on your device. When you type a URL into your browser, your DNS resolves the domain into an IP address, guiding your computer to the website. If hijacked, this process can redirect you to malicious sites without your knowledge.

Signs Your DNS Might Be Hijacked

• Unexpected redirects: If you visit a familiar website but are redirected to an unfamiliar or suspicious page, your DNS may have been tampered with.
• Slow internet speeds: DNS hijackers may reroute traffic through malicious servers, slowing down your browsing experience.
• Phishing attempts: Your DNS might be compromised if you’re redirected to fake login pages that closely mimic real sites.
• Unfamiliar DNS settings: Changing your DNS settings without authorization can indicate a hijacking attempt.

How to Detect DNS Hijacking on Windows PC

1. Check DNS Server Settings
   • Go to Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center.
   • Click on your active connection, then select Properties.
   • Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) in the new window and click Properties.
   • Check the DNS server addresses. If they have been changed to an unfamiliar value, your system might be compromised.
2. Run a nslookup Command.
   • Open the Command Prompt by typing cmd in the search bar.
   • Run the command nslookup <website URL>. If the IP address returned doesn’t match the legitimate server, it could indicate DNS hijacking.
3. Check for Installed Malware
   • DNS hijacking is often accompanied by malware. Run a complete scan with your antivirus software to detect any potential threats.

Steps to Prevent DNS Hijacking

Use a Trusted DNS Provider

Consider using reputable DNS services like Google Public DNS or Cloudflare DNS. These providers offer secure DNS servers with advanced encryption, helping protect against DNS hijacking.

• How to Set Up Google DNS:
  • Go to Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center.
  • Select your network, click Properties, and choose Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4).
  • Set the DNS server addresses to 8.8.8.8 (Preferred) and 8.8.4.4 (Alternate).

Enable DNS Over HTTPS (DoH)

DNS over HTTPS (DoH) encrypts DNS queries, preventing attackers from intercepting or tampering with DNS traffic. Windows 11 supports DoH natively, and you can enable it with the following steps:

• Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Wi-Fi (or Ethernet) > Hardware Properties.
• Choose Edit DNS Settings, select Manual, and enable DoH.

Keep Your System and Router Firmware Updated

Updating your Windows operating system and router firmware ensures you have the latest security patches, reducing vulnerabilities attackers can exploit.

• Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update to update Windows.
• To update router firmware, Access your router’s settings by typing its IP address in your browser, logging in, and following the manufacturer’s instructions.

Use a Reliable Antivirus and Firewall

A robust antivirus solution can help detect malware that might attempt to hijack your DNS. Similarly, enabling a firewall will block unauthorized changes to your DNS settings.

• Windows Defender: Built-in on Windows, Defender offers real-time protection and scans for threats automatically.
• Fortect PC Solution: Fortect is a third-party software that offers comprehensive antivirus protection and malware scanning. The premium version automatically scans your Windows PC for threats, including DNS hijacking, providing real-time notifications. It quickly resolves or removes any detected issues within minutes.

Download and install Fortect now.

Change Your Router Password

Your router’s default login credentials can be easily found online, making it vulnerable to attacks. To prevent unauthorized access, change the default password to something substantial and unique.

• How to change the router password:
  • Access your router settings by typing its IP address (often 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1) into your web browser.
  • Log in using the default or your current credentials, and find the option to change the password under the Administration tab.

Regularly Check Your DNS Settings

Periodically verify your DNS settings in Windows to ensure they haven’t been altered. This practice helps catch any unauthorized changes early.

Final Thoughts

DNS hijacking seriously risks your privacy and security on a Windows PC. You can safeguard your system from DNS-related attacks by being vigilant about your DNS settings and taking the above preventative steps.