What type of attack involves an attacker intercepting communications between a client and a server?

The type of attack that involves an attacker intercepting communications between a client and a server is known as a man-in-the-middle attack. In this scenario, the attacker positions themselves between the two parties, allowing them to eavesdrop on the communication, alter the messages, or impersonate one of the parties without either side being aware of the tampering.

Man-in-the-middle attacks can occur in various forms, such as intercepting communication over unsecured Wi-Fi networks or through vulnerabilities in a network. This type of attack exploits the lack of encryption or security in the communication channels, making it possible for the attacker to gain sensitive information like credentials or sensitive data.

Understanding the mechanics of a man-in-the-middle attack is crucial because it emphasizes the importance of using secure communication protocols, such as HTTPS, which encrypts the data being transmitted to prevent unauthorized access.