How hackers use weak Wi-Fi, and simple ways to keep your data safe?

Earlier this year, a seemingly innocent post on Reddit sent waves of concern through parents everywhere. A mother shared a shocking experience where she overheard the voice of a stranger speaking to her baby through a Wi-Fi-enabled baby monitor. 

What was meant to provide comfort, and reassurance had unexpectedly turned into a nightmare, and the culprit? The very Wi-Fi connection she relied on for monitoring her child.

“Please be careful with Wi-Fi baby monitors,” she began, warning others about the vulnerability of these devices. The monitor, a thoughtful gift, was meant to track her baby’s movements and provide two-way communication. Her security monitor had been compromised, allowing someone to remotely listen in and speak to her child.

Our reliance on Wi-Fi whether at home, in hotels, or in public spaces like airports or coffee shops, can lead to vulnerabilities, especially when we least expect it. In an age where nearly everything—from smart devices to banking apps—depends on Wi-Fi, securing these connections is more important than ever.

Wi-Fi threats: Unseen risks when traveling
While traveling, many of us connect to public Wi-Fi networks without giving it much thought. Whether it's checking flight updates at an airport, streaming movies in a hotel, or catching up on emails in a café, we often overlook the security risks. However, public Wi-Fi networks are prime targets for hackers looking to steal sensitive data.

A study conducted by Israeli cybersecurity researchers in 2021 revealed that approximately 70% of Wi-Fi networks were vulnerable to password cracking, where hackers gain access by exploiting weak or compromised passwords. Furthermore, a 2023 survey by Forbes Advisor found that 43% of respondents reported having their online security breached while using public Wi-Fi. 

These alarming statistics highlight the increasing danger of connecting to unsecured networks, especially in places like airports, hotels, and cafés, where speed and convenience often take precedence over security.

Hackers don't need much to exploit unsuspecting travelers. Whether you're checking emails on your phone or using your laptop at a hotel, there are numerous ways hackers can intercept your data.

Common Wi-Fi attacks to watch out for
There are some Wi-Fi attacks that you need to watch out for.

Password cracking
Weak passwords are a prime target for hackers. Using automated tools or leaked credentials, they can easily gain access to networks. Be cautious of weak passwords when connecting to Wi-Fi at airports or hotels.

Rogue access points
Hackers can create fake Wi-Fi networks, like "Hotel_1234" or "Airport_Free_WiFi." Once connected, they can steal sensitive information such as credit card details or login credentials.

Man-in-the-middle (MITM) attacks
Hackers position themselves between your device and the network, intercepting and manipulating data. These attacks are especially risky on public WiFi, where encryption is often weak.

Evil twin Wi-Fi attacks
Hackers mimic legitimate hotspots to trick users into connecting. For example, a hacker may create a network named "Free_Airport_WiFi" to lure travelers and steal personal information.

Packet sniffing
Using tools like Wireshark, hackers can capture data packets over WiFi networks, which often contain sensitive info like passwords or credit card numbers.

Wireless jamming
Wireless jamming floods the network with noise, disrupting WiFi services. This can slow connections or make the network inaccessible, leaving users stranded.

MAC spoofing
Hackers change their device’s MAC address to match a legitimate one on the network, bypassing security protocols without needing a password.

Denial of service (DoS) attacks
A DoS attack floods the network with traffic, causing slow speeds or total unavailability. This can disrupt essential tasks at places like hotels or airports.

WPS vulnerabilities
Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) allows easy device connections without a password but is vulnerable to brute-force attacks by hackers.

Physical access
Hackers with physical access to a router or network hardware can tamper with settings or take control of the network.

Protecting your data while traveling
When traveling, securing your Wi-Fi connection is crucial. Here are a few actions to protect your data:

* Avoid Sensitive Transactions on Public WiFi: Avoid logging into bank accounts or making purchases over unsecured networks.

* Use a VPN: A VPN encrypts your connection, making it harder for hackers to intercept your data.

* Ensure Strong Passwords: Use unique, complex passwords for devices and WiFi accounts, avoiding easy-to-guess ones.

* Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Add an extra layer of security to important accounts by enabling two-factor authentication. 

* Monitor Your Network: Regularly check devices connected to your WiFi and disconnect anything suspicious immediately.

As we become more reliant on Wi-Fi while traveling, the risks of security breaches also increase. Whether you're at a hotel, airport, or café, it's essential to be vigilant and protect your personal information. 

What seems like a simple convenience can quickly become a serious security threat if your data is exposed.

-- Neehar Pathare, MD, CEO & CIO, 63SATS Cybertech.