Your Wi-Fi network might be the gateway to the digital world, but it’s also a vulnerable access point for cyber threats. Malicious actors are constantly seeking opportunities to exploit weaknesses in your wireless security, putting sensitive communications or transactions at risk. Below, we’ll break down major security threats you should be aware of and what you can do to secure your wireless network. Here’s what you need to know.
Is Your Wi-Fi Network Secure?
Gaining unauthorized access to Wi-Fi networks provides hackers with the opportunity to intercept sensitive information such as passwords, credit card numbers, or personal details, flowing through the network. By exploiting vulnerabilities in Wi-Fi security, attackers can execute malicious activities that compromise the security and privacy of anyone connected to the network. Identity theft, financial fraud, and social engineering are just some examples of the potential consequences of network attacks.
So how do you know if a malicious actor has accessed your network? There are a few signs to watch out for. First, check the list of devices connected to your Wi-Fi. If you see one that’s unfamiliar, it could be a red flag. Some routers have lights indicating connected devices – keep an eye on these for unexpected activity. Also, pay attention to any unusual slowdowns in your internet speed or unexpected data usage. These could be indicators that someone is using your Wi-Fi without your knowledge.
The Most Dangerous Wi-Fi Security Threats
Awareness is your first line of defense against Wi-Fi attacks, and knowing what you’re up against can help you decide which security measures are necessary to keep your connections safe. Let’s take a closer look at the top Wi-Fi security threats so you can better understand and address potential risks to your network.
1. Deauthentication
Normally, routers send deauthentication messages to inactive devices for efficient connection management. However, hackers exploit this WLAN process to execute deauthentication attacks. Unlike attacks that steal information, deauthentication focuses on disconnecting a device by sending fake deauthentication frames. These counterfeit frames trick the targeted device into thinking it’s been disconnected, compelling it to reconnect to the network.
The Attacker’s Goal
Most Wi-Fi attacks start with deauthentication. Once the targeted device reconnects to the compromised network, the attacker seizes the opportunity to intercept, manipulate, or monitor data flow between the device and the Wi-Fi network. The device, thinking it experienced a standard reconnection, may unknowingly transmit sensitive data such as passwords or personal information. The specific actions depend on the goals of the attacker, but the overall aim is to take advantage of the reconnection to compromise the security of the device or the network.
Defense Measures
Deauthentication packets used in the attack are not encrypted, but it’s still fairly easy to find the MAC addresses and the WLAN SSID. Enhance your Wi-Fi security by enabling WPA3 encryption protocols. Additionally, you can activate the Protected Management Frames (PMF) function, preferably through WPA3. If you’re using WPA2, ensure it’s configured securely. As part of the current security standard, PMF ensures that deauthentication packets are transmitted with a shared key, allowing your device to recognize them as legitimate messages from the known router.
2. Evil Twin
This is a type of threat where a malicious actor sets up a fake, unsecured Wi-Fi network that looks like a legitimate one, as it uses the same SSID. This deceptive network tricks users into connecting, thinking it’s a trustworthy Wi-Fi hotspot. While this usually happens in public places like cafes or airports, it can also happen at home with a private network.
The evil twin or the false access point usually attracts people to connect because the attacker makes it seem like it offers better signal strength than the network it’s imitating. Additionally, they may use a deauthentication attack to force people’s devices to disconnect from the real Wi-Fi and unknowingly connect to the fake one.
The Attacker’s Goal
Once a user connects to the evil twin, the attacker can monitor your entire data traffic. This can include the login credentials you type in a banking app or other sensitive information you send over the internet. The attacker can also install malware to exploit any data on your device in other ways.
Defense Measures
To protect yourself from evil twin attacks, avoid performing activities that involve entering crucial passwords when you’re connected to a public Wi-Fi hotspot. If you need to do so, make sure that you establish an encrypted connection by checking for a web address that begins with https://. For enhanced protection in public settings, consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) that links to your home router, encrypting all the data that you send through the public Wi-Fi. Additionally, steer clear of any unsecured wireless network that doesn’t require a password.
3. Brute Force
Brute force is a method that involves guessing a Wi-Fi password by systematically trying out all possible combinations to gain unauthorized network access. This method relies on the malicious actor’s persistence and the assumption that the password is not too complex or lengthy. Databases with popular passwords and character combinations can also be used to speed up the process.
The Attacker’s Goal
Having the correct Wi-Fi password gives the attacker unrestricted access to all devices connected to the home network. They can potentially infiltrate other devices within the network and access shared resources. It’s also possible to intercept and record all data traffic within the network without encryption.
Defense Measures
Use a strong, unique password for your Wi-Fi network and update it regularly. Using a passphrase with a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols is highly recommended. Make sure to change the default credentials that came with your router since default passwords are easily available and commonly targeted. Additionally, consider limiting the number of devices that can connect to your network to reduce the risk of unauthorized access.
4. Router Attack
Certain router models are susceptible to security breaches due to vulnerabilities in the firmware. Since many wireless routers use Linux as their foundation, manufacturers often incorporate open-source programs that may have flaws. Hackers can exploit these gaps to execute commands on the router, allowing them comprehensive control. Depending on the specific vulnerability, attackers might need a wireless access point or remote connection to exploit these weaknesses.
The Attacker’s Goal
Once in control, the attacker can change settings, disable security functions, and ensure continuous access to the router menu without detection. The hijacked router may then be used by the attacker to join a botnet, a network of compromised devices. This makes it possible to launch attacks on other networks, such as Denial of Service (DoS) attacks or sending spam messages.
Defense Measures
Start with identifying the type of router you have. Then, regularly check if there are new firmware updates available for it. Manufacturers often release these updates to address vulnerabilities and provide patches. Stay informed about router security flaws by visiting support pages specific to your router model as well as reputable cybersecurity websites.
5. Remote Attack
This threat involves a hacker attempting to gain access to a Wi-Fi network from a distance, typically over the Internet. One common method is scanning for network devices that are configured for remote access, often using standard ports. Once identified, the hacker may use methods such as brute force attacks to try to crack passwords and gain control over the Wi-Fi network.
The Attacker’s Goal
Changing the settings in the router’s menu allows the attacker to take control of it. They can then integrate the compromised router into a botnet or manipulate the internet access of devices connected to the Wi-Fi. This manipulation could involve redirecting web traffic to a server controlled by the attacker. As a result, they could potentially capture passwords or introduce malware into the home network.
Defense Measures
Activate remote access only when necessary and use a strong password for logging into the router menu. It’s also best to set up a separate user account for remote access, different from the one you use for local access. Moreover, you can take advantage of the option to define an IP address range. This means only wireless devices with a specific matching IP address would be able to access the router remotely. For additional security, some routers also lock the menu after a certain number of failed login attempts or increase the time delay after each failed attempt before allowing another login.
More Tips for Protecting Your Wi-Fi Against Hackers
- Keep an eye on the list of wireless devices connected to your network. If you spot unfamiliar devices, investigate immediately.
- Pay special attention to the security of mobile devices connected to your Wi-Fi. Ensure they have updated security settings and, if available, use features like fingerprint or face recognition for additional authentication.
- Regularly check and adjust your router’s firewall settings. Ensuring they are configured correctly adds an extra layer of defense.
- If your router supports it, utilize the guest Wi-Fi feature. This provides a separate wireless channel with a separate password, keeping your primary network secure while allowing guests to connect.
Boosting Your Wireless Network Security
Keeping Wi-Fi connections safe is essential in today’s interconnected world. By taking proactive steps to ensure secure access and protecting your network against potential threats, you create a safer digital environment. This not only safeguards your personal information but also provides peace of mind, allowing you to browse, stream, and connect worry-free.