SFTP is a protocol several file servers use to transfer file data through an FTP server. However, SFTP has been designed to verify the identity of a person accessing a file on a server using strict rules. Despite added security features, it is still vulnerable to cyber attacks from hackers.
How to Secure Your SFTP Server From Hackers?
Securing SFTP server from hackers is critical so you should visit https://www.goanywhere.com/managed-file-transfer/file-server/sftp-server to learn more about SFTP servers and their security. Following are some methods that help in protecting SFTP servers from hackers:
Setting up SFTP Passphrase
If you logged into your FTP server using an SFTP connection without a passphrase, you are open to a cyber attack. Similarly, if you share your credentials with unknown sources, you invite a hacker to exploit your personal information.
Moreover, if your STFP and FTP credentials are the same, there is a chance of hacking. The only solution for such a problem is to set a passphrase for SFTP; regular passwords will not do the trick.
A passphrase is an alphanumeric string that contains random numbers generating a strong password. The passphrase is unique to a specific server; therefore, it’s difficult and near impossible for a hacker to hijack it.
Enabling the Restricted SFTP Server Mode
Enabling the restricted SFTP server mode will prevent other users from accessing restricted files or folders. The restricted mode will prevent users from accessing the directories under the /var/folders. Only the current user can access the directory /var/folders
in this mode.
There is no hard-coded path in the user’s account in a restricted mode, but it will create a /var/folders/restricted file. The user can access those files after providing valid credentials. So, to enable restricted mode on SFTP, you can use the following commands:
$ svn provision: forward SFS
$ svn rev: set SFS
This feature is complex for hackers to manipulate; therefore, run these commands to protect and restrict access to sensitive files.
SFTP Check
If the above two options don’t help you, you can use the check option that would help you find any possibility of a hacker accessing your system and extracting your data.
If you specify the account, you would like to check; you will be able to see the list of the users on the server that are allowed to access your files or folders. You will need the last six digits of the ID or username and the IP address to check for them.
Refresh Passwords
One of the most straightforward methods to prevent a cyberattack is to refresh your passwords and passphrases after a couple of weeks. You can also refresh IPs for added security.
Remember, most data breaches are down to old passwords and compromised IPs; therefore, taking extra precautions can save you from distress. It is recommended you refresh them after every four weeks.
Anything on the internet is open to hacking, therefore protect your SFTP server from hackers by using extra precautions and staying vigilante. The above methods are enough to protect your information; however, you can prevent it by sharing server credentials with authorized and trustworthy personnel.