The Network Security. Org

RSS Feed

← Fun Things To Do With Your Honeypot Detecting, Analyzing, and Exploiting Intranet Applications using JavaScript →

Prevent pricey Wi-Fi security errors

July 31st, 2006 · No Comments


An innocent-looking cafe may harbor a nest of fraudsters, identity thieves and other miscreants, wifi2.jpgsecurity experts warn. Although companies may think they have taken all the right steps to secure their networks, they could still be vulnerable if their employees access wireless hotspots, such as those at a local cafe.

In a report issued by security vendor Fortinet Inc., Richard Hanke, U.S.-based vice president of product management, says most mobile users do not realize that once connected to a wireless hotspot, they become a member of a connected community of users - most or all of whom are strangers.

And he warns this poses significant security risks as there is often little or no control of what can pass from user to user via a wireless access point, and that can have disastrous consequences.
A hapless, latt-sipping web surfer can easily become infected with a virus or worm that has been picked up by a neighboring user, writes Hanke.

But he says the real damage occurs when the newly infected user returns to work and connects to the organization’s wireless access point.

A worm picked up during the coffee break can then race unhindered into corporate networks and could cause significant damage. Prevent pricey Wi-Fi security errors - NETWORKING, TELECOMMUNICATION - ENGLISH NEWS - NEWS - PC-Welt - pcwelt.de

From around the Web

  • Advertisments