Security Basics mailing list archives
RE: Are Proxy Firewalls a Security Hole?
From: Dan Lynch <DLynch () placer ca gov>
Date: Thu, 31 May 2012 16:46:21 -0700
Given that people are sending larger and larger files, proxy firewalls seem to be limited since they can't inspect files after a certain point and the 'stream', 'flow', 'express' AV options of many of the proxy firewall vendors inspect only a portion of the large file. I've been able to put the Eicar virus in different locations of a large test file and successfully get the file through the firewall. So, are proxy firewalls a security hole?
Everything's a "security hole". Since every security precaution is a compromise, there are ways to bypass any of them. What's important is to consider the likelihood of one of those compromises being exploited, the value of the resources being protected, and the cost of closing the gap. In your example, the vast majority of threats being protected against by perimeter proxy AV are tiny files - some html code, a script, etc. Capping AV scanning at say, 10 MB eliminates most threats, while preserving AV system resources. The risk of a malicious file hiding inside an 11 MB zip is real, but small enough to delegate off to desktop AV. Defense in depth. Dan Lynch, CISSP Information Technology Analyst County of Placer Auburn, CA ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Securing Apache Web Server with thawte Digital Certificate In this guide we examine the importance of Apache-SSL and who needs an SSL certificate. We look at how SSL works, how it benefits your company and how your customers can tell if a site is secure. You will find out how to test, purchase, install and use a thawte Digital Certificate on your Apache web server. Throughout, best practices for set-up are highlighted to help you ensure efficient ongoing management of your encryption keys and digital certificates. http://www.dinclinx.com/Redirect.aspx?36;4175;25;1371;0;5;946;e13b6be442f727d1 ------------------------------------------------------------------------
Current thread:
- RE: Are Proxy Firewalls a Security Hole? Dan Lynch (Jun 01)
- <Possible follow-ups>
- Re: Are Proxy Firewalls a Security Hole? Rob (Jun 01)
- Re: Are Proxy Firewalls a Security Hole? Stephanus J Alex Taidri (Jun 01)
- Re: Are Proxy Firewalls a Security Hole? Dav Fisher (Jun 04)
- RE: Are Proxy Firewalls a Security Hole? David Harley (Jun 01)
- Re: Are Proxy Firewalls a Security Hole? Kurt Buff (Jun 01)