What type of attack targets a network connection by intercepting communication between two systems?

An on-path attack specifically targets the network connection by intercepting communication between two systems, allowing an attacker to eavesdrop, modify messages, or impersonate one of the parties involved in the communication. This type of attack can occur in various ways, such as through man-in-the-middle tactics, where the attacker positions themselves between the communicating parties without either being aware of the interception.

This technique exploits the trust relationship between the two systems and can lead to data breaches, unauthorized access, or the injection of malicious content into the communication stream. The key characteristic of an on-path attack is its focus on the flow of data within a network and the ability to influence or observe that data as it travels.

The other options do not align with the definition of an attack that intercepts communication in the same manner. For instance, a reflected DDoS primarily involves overwhelming a target with traffic rather than intercepting data, while a brute-force attack focuses on guessing passwords rather than capturing communication. Phishing attacks typically aim to deceive users into providing sensitive information rather than directly intercepting communications between systems.