Explore the common threats to wireless network security and how to avoid them
Wireless networks have become an integral part of our daily lives. They enable us to connect to the internet, access information, and easily communicate with each other. However, wireless networks are vulnerable to various security threats. Therefore, it is essential to understand the common vulnerabilities. This article provides a comprehensive guide to wireless network threats and essential measures to secure them.
Cracking Attack
- A cracking attack on a Wi-Fi network involves exploiting security weaknesses through either simple brute force or complex methods. These vulnerabilities often arise from poor configuration or weak and flawed security protocols. By taking advantage of these vulnerabilities, attackers can infiltrate the wireless network and gain unauthorized access.
Piggybacking
- Wireless routers and WAPs have a broadcast range of 150-300 feet indoors and up to 1,000 feet outdoors. More advanced users can even engage in wardriving, where they drive around with a computer and a high-powered antenna to locate unsecured wireless networks.
Piggybacking refers to unauthorized individuals connecting to an unsecured Wi-Fi network. The problem with piggybacking is that it allows unauthorized users to conduct illegal activities, monitor, and capture web traffic, and potentially steal personal files.
Evil Twin Attack
- An evil twin attack is a type of Wi-Fi attack where cybercriminals create a fake wireless access point (WAP) that looks legitimate. Then, the cybercriminals use a stronger broadcast signal than the legitimate WAP to trick unsuspecting users into connecting to their fake system.
Once a user connects to the fake WAP, cybercriminals can easily intercept any data sent over the internet, including sensitive information like credit card numbers, login credentials, and personal information. This makes evil twin attacks a severe threat to users who may unknowingly connect to these fake WAPs and expose their personal information to cybercriminals.
Wireless Sniffing
- Wireless sniffing is a security threat that arises when data transmitted over an unsecured wireless network is intercepted by malicious actors using sniffing tools. Many wireless access points (WAPs) are not adequately secured and do not encrypt their data.
When users connect to these unsecured WAPs, any data they send over the network is exposed to attackers. This poses a significant risk to sensitive communications and transactions, as attackers can obtain personal and confidential information. Therefore, it is crucial to secure wireless networks and protect sensitive information.
Tips To Protect Against Wireless Network Threats
Here are some strategies to protect against wireless network threats:
Change The Name Of Your Wi-Fi Network
- To enhance the wireless network’s security, do not publicize your service set identifier (SSID). When you use the default name provided by the router for the Wi-Fi network, attackers can quickly identify the type of router and exploit any known vulnerabilities.
One simple and effective way to improve router security is to change the name of your Wi-Fi network and conceal SSID.
Encrypt Your Data
- Encrypting the data transmitted over a wireless network is crucial in protecting sensitive information from unauthorized access. Encryption ensures data becomes unreadable to unauthorized users, even if they manage to access your network.
Restrict Access
Restricting access to a wireless network enhances its security. One way to do this is by using MAC address filtering. Every device that connects to a network has a unique media access control (MAC) address assigned by its manufacturer. By filtering MAC addresses, you can restrict access to your wireless network to only preapproved devices.
Restricting access to a wireless network enhances its security. One way to do this is by using The professionals at Outsource My IT offer Wireless Network Security to companies in New Jersey. Give us a call at 973-638-2722. We have an experienced team of IT specialists who work with you to ensure your network is secure from unauthorized access.
