Block fraudulent IP addresses is an important aspect of maintaining website security. However, it’s not always straightforward to make the right decisions about when and how to do it effectively. This article will walk you through why it’s necessary to block IP address, when you should consider doing so, and how to get started on several different systems.
The primary purpose of blocking IP addresses is to limit access from specific locations that are deemed dangerous. This is particularly useful for online businesses that rely on customers located worldwide. It can also be used to enforce geolocation restrictions based on local regulations or licensing agreements.
How to Block Fraudulent IP Addresses and Prevent Cyber Threats
For example, many academic institutions and businesses use IP blocking to restrict the websites that students and employees can visit in order to increase productivity by limiting distractions. These types of restrictions are also a common way to prevent hackers from accessing confidential information like transcripts and health records.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that blocking all IP addresses from a single location could negatively impact legitimate users from other locations. This is especially the case when fraudsters are using giant botnets of compromised devices to conduct ad fraud activities. These bot programs will, without the device owner’s knowledge, fill out forms and click on ads to generate revenue for the fraudster. To avoid accidentally blocking out legitimate users, it’s important to review and adjust IP blocking protocols regularly to reflect new threats. It’s also a good idea to utilize automated tools that can help reduce the chances of human error and streamline updating and applying block lists.