The Wonderful World of WiFi

Dear Readers,

Wi-Fi is in households worldwide connecting us to all things internet, good and bad. This brings security risks, especially for seniors who may be less familiar with safe digital security practices. For information on how Wi-Fi works, potential security threats, and best practices to stay safe online KEEP READING.

CHECK OUT LAST WEEKS POST ABOUT 23andMe GETTING HACKED:

Understanding Wi-Fi and How it Works

Believe it or not, Wi-Fi doesn’t stand for anything at all. It’s a term made up by a marketing firm. Wi-Fi, or wireless standard IEEE 802.11 (now you see why they changed it), uses radio waves to transmit data between your devices and a router. Once the data from your device reaches the router it is routed (thus the name) to its destination across the internet.

Understanding Wi-Fi Risks

Unsecured Wi-Fi networks can expose your data to cyber attacks. Cybercriminals attack weak Wi-Fi security to steal your personal information, gain access to online accounts, and even conduct identity theft. Seniors, in particular, can be targeted due to perceived lower awareness of these risks.

There are two main threats we must address: Threats to your home router, and threats using a public router aka free Wi-Fi.

Let’s Start With Securing Your Wi-Fi

If I can access your router I can literally see everything that moves from your computer to the internet. Once I see the websites you visit for email, for banking, for work. I create fake websites that look just like the real ones you visit. Next time you try to visit those websites I “route” you to my fake sites and capture your login credentials.

While you’re stuck trying to log in to my fake sites for the second and the third time, I will be accessing your real accounts at the real websites. Now I could change all your credentials (too easy). Better, I leave them the same, start “routing” you to the real sites again; but now I can access them too. There OUR accounts now. Want to prevent that? Here’s how:

• Change Default Router Settings: When you first set up your Wi-Fi network, it's crucial to change the default username and password. Default credentials are often easy to guess or publicly known, making them a target for hackers.

• Enable Strong Encryption: Use WPA3 encryption, the latest and most secure option. This encrypts the data transmitted over your network, making it difficult for unauthorized users to intercept.

• Regularly Update Firmware: Router manufacturers release firmware updates that include security patches. Keeping your router's firmware up-to-date is essential for protecting against new vulnerabilities.

• Use a Strong Wi-Fi Password: Create a robust password for your Wi-Fi network. It should be a mix of letters, numbers, and special characters and should be unique to your network.

• Turn Off WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup): While WPS offers a convenient way to connect devices to your network, it can also be a security risk. Disable it in your router settings.

• Create a Guest Network: If you have visitors who need to use your Wi-Fi, set up a guest network. This keeps your main network more secure.

Public Wi-Fi

This one is easy. DO NOT USE PUBLIC Wi-Fi!! There are too many security threats to address with public Wi-Fi. Use only for absolute emergencies and do not transfer sensitive information. Always use the data plan on your mobile device. T-Mobile, Verizon, and At&t networks are far more secure than public Wi-Fi.

Best Practices for Wi-Fi Security

• Avoid Public Wi-Fi: Avoid accessing sensitive information like bank accounts or personal emails on public Wi-Fi networks. These are often unsecured and can expose your data to cybercriminals.

• Regularly Monitor Network Activity: Check your Wi-Fi network’s activity logs. If you notice unfamiliar devices or unusual activity, it could indicate a security breach. (This is a bit advanced.)

• Install Antivirus and Anti-Malware Software: Protect your devices by installing reputable antivirus and anti-malware software. They can detect and prevent malicious attacks on your network.

What does it all mean?

Your personal data is not safe anywhere. Routers are vulnerable and yet many still use the credentials provided by the manufacturer on the sticker on the bottom. What if someone pays the cable tech $50 to take a picture when he’s servicing client routers? There is typically an inside man in cyber crime. Change the default password and login. Trust us.

Until next Tuesday, stay informed,

The Help Desk

For further reading:

Securing Your Wi-Fi

Risks of Public Wi-Fi

How to Create a Guest Wi-Fi Network

What is Wi-Fi

Common Wi-Fi Issues and Fixes

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