What You Need to Know About the Proxy?
A proxy web service works as an intermediary between the client and the server. You are likely familiar with VPN services or the TOR network. These provide incredible anonymity for their users by encrypting data or rerouting traffic.
Using a Proxy Web Service as a Web User
Proxy used to be happens in two typical fashions:
- Through hosting providers
- Installed on a local server
Your average user will likely use a VPN service. The VPN lets them browse the Web and transferring data without detection. Proxy setup is done using subscription services an all-in-one software.
What do average Web users use proxies for?
The most common use of proxies is to access blocked content by bypassing filters. The filters are usually found at schools and government institutions. These locations usually have popular sites (like YouTube) blocked.
Other common uses for a proxy include:
- Avoiding advertising and third-party tracking cookies
- Getting around paywalls to news websites (like the New York Times)
- Protecting their identity when using peer-to-peer networks or torrenting
- Creating control over their private network with static IPs and filtering
- Running advertising and marketing campaigns undetected by competitors
There are also those that use proxies as a means of malicious intent. Hackers use proxies to avoid detection when executing exploits.
Proxies may also offer anonymity for those operating botnets. Botnets conduct large-scale DDoS attacks with the intention of disrupting services.
The proxy services are a tool, yet, and do not signify an immediate intent of wrong-doing. Most have intentions to use the service as a means to protect their online privacy.
What about the few outliers truly nefarious with their intentions? How could a company or individual protect themselves against such intrusion?
Using a Proxy Web Service as a Power User
System administrators want to understand where visitors are coming from. Understanding their location leads to better protection for their networks.
A sudden influx of IP addresses showing an anonymous IP is a likely indicator of a cyber-attack.
Cyber-attacks on systems storing private information — credit card data or medical records — happen often. The usual route is by using these anonymous addresses.
A way of pinpointing users is by using our IP2Location proxy web service.
Running the anonymous IP through the tool displays:
- Country code
- Net speed
- Connection type
- Postal code
The tool reveals the true IP of the visitor. It allows the sysadmin to make accurate assumptions about the visitor intentions.
It’s a tool meant to deter and detect fraud.
The information becomes valuable in the event an attack happens. The admin provides collected data to law enforcement. This includes the common event of social engineering. The social engineering is a way to access customer accounts for committing identity theft.
The IP2Location proxy web service is available via:
- Hosted solution
A power user uses this information to block access from these locations, or their intended destinations.
Learn More about IP2Proxy Web Services
Ready to start using IP2Proxy Web Service? Sign up at IP2Proxy today!