SYBIL ATTACK Meaning and
Definition
-
A Sybil attack is a type of malicious activity in computer networks where an attacker creates multiple fake identities or accounts to deceive and manipulate other participants or systems. The term "Sybil" is derived from the book "Sybil" written by Flora Schreiber, which portrays a woman with multiple personality disorder. In the context of computer networks, it refers to the creation of multiple distinct identities by a single attacker.
In a Sybil attack, the attacker utilizes these multiple identities to gain undue influence or control over a network. This malicious activity can compromise the integrity and security of various systems and protocols, including peer-to-peer networks, distributed systems, and social networks.
The main objective of a Sybil attack is to overpower the reputation systems or resource allocation mechanisms in order to control the decision-making processes. By creating a large number of fake identities, the attacker increases their influence, credibility, and trustworthiness within the network, enabling them to manipulate or undermine the desired activities or objectives.
Sybil attacks can have severe consequences on various applications and systems, such as distributed file-sharing systems, online auctions, reputation systems, blockchain networks, and more. Defending against Sybil attacks often involves implementing countermeasures such as cryptographic identity verification, user reputation systems, access control mechanisms, or network-wide monitoring and detection systems.
Overall, a Sybil attack is a deceptive and manipulative strategy where an attacker exploits multiple fake identities to gain control or manipulate systems, ultimately compromising the integrity and security of the network.
Etymology of SYBIL ATTACK
The term "sybil attack" originated from a famous fictional character named Sybil Dorsett in the book "Sybil" written by Flora Rheta Schreiber and published in 1973. The character Sybil Dorsett suffered from dissociative identity disorder (previously known as multiple personality disorder), exhibiting multiple personalities.
The concept of a sybil attack in the context of computer security was first introduced by John R. Douceur in a paper titled "The Sybil Attack" published in 2002. Douceur used the term "sybil" to represent multiple malicious identities created to deceive or manipulate a system. The choice of the term was inspired by the character Sybil Dorsett, as the attack involves creating multiple fake identities similar to how Sybil had multiple personalities.
