NMAP (Network Mapper) is an open-source tool for network exploration and security auditing. Many network administrators use it to scan open ports and services, identify network hosts, and detect security vulnerabilities. However, when using NMAP, it’s important to conceal your IP address to avoid detection, especially in penetration testing.
Here’s a more technical description of how to hide your IP while using NMAP:
1. Using Proxychains: Proxychains is an UNIX-based utility that pushes any TCP connection made by any given TCP client through proxy servers (e.g., SOCKS4, SOCKS5). Proxychains can be coupled with NMAP to create a masked IP scanning environment.
Install proxychains in Linux terminal by running ‘sudo apt-get install proxychains’. After installation, open the configuration file in a text editor like Vim or Nano: ‘sudo nano /etc/proxychains.conf’. At the end of the file, add the line ‘socks5 127.0.0.1 9050’. Then use proxychains with NMAP as follows: ‘proxychains nmap [target]’ (Sources: Cyberpersons, TechRepublic).
1. Using Tor (The Onion Router): Tor is a free and open-source software that provides anonymity by bouncing your communications around a distributed network of relays run by volunteers worldwide.
You must install Tor service before you use it with NMAP. In Linux terminal, type ‘sudo apt-get install tor’. Afer installation, start the Tor service by ‘sudo service tor start’. You will ensure Tor is running by using the command ‘sudo service tor status’. Tor can be used with proxychains to scan with NMAP: ‘proxychains nmap [target]’ (Sources: LinuxConfig, Bleeping Computer).
1. Using Decoy: NMAP includes a feature for masking scan origin, where it sends fake decoy probes from spoofed IP addresses alongside the real probes. Under this method, your IP is lost in the crowd – theoretically. However, this technique is easily detectable by intrusion detection systems (IDS). Use -D option followed by IP addresses as decoys: ‘nmap -D decoy1,decoy2,decoy3 [target]’. Be aware that it may be illegal to spoof IP addresses (Sources: Linux Journal, TechTarget).
Remember that even with the techniques mentioned above, 100% anonymity can’t be assured; especially, if the user unwittingly reveals information. It’s also important to note that using NMAP for illegal activities is against ethical guidelines and laws vary by country. Always use these techniques responsibly, adhering to laws and ethical guidelines (Sources: NMAP.org, Webopedia).
Before using any anonymization technique, remember there may be legal and ethical considerations, especially while performing scans on networks not owned or permitted by you. Check the applicable laws in your jurisdiction and always seek appropriate permissions.
