Targeted traffic filtering

Abstract

Remote Triggered Black Holes (RTBHs) can be precisely placed on networks that are not directly physically connected to a target of an attack. A network source of a potential attack can be determined. A path between the network source and the target can be identified, and a determination can be made as to which networks along that path subscribe to an attack mitigation service. From multiple identified subscriber networks, a subscriber network can be identified that is determined to be appropriate for placement of a black hole to mitigate the attack. Once selected, the identified network can receive attack information and acknowledge placement of the black hole. The subscriber network can then begin discarding traffic for the attack target. A subscriber-owned list of network prefixes can be reviewed before allowing RTBH injection for a corresponding address space.