War Dialer

It is computer program which is used for identifying the phone numbers that can successfully make a connection with a computer modem. This program automatically dials a defined range of phone numbers and logs and enters in a database those numbers that successfully connect to the modem.

Some of these programs can identify the particular operating system running in the computer and may also conduct automated penetration testing. In such a case, the war dialer runs through a predetermined list of common user names and passwords in an attempt to gain access to the system.

These are obtained as freeware and can be used by a hacker for identifying potential targets. If the program does not allow automated penetration testing, the intruder attempts to hack a modem with unprotected log-ins or easily cracked passwords. Commercial war dialers are called modem scanners and they can also be used by system administrators for identifying unauthorized modems on an enterprise network. These modems provide easy access to a company's intranet.

War dialing is the act of using a modem to dial every phone number in a local area to find out where computers are available and then attempt to access them by guessing passwords.