Three rules for safer Wi-Fi away from home
Almost everyone has heard about wardriving, the geek sport in which you drive around and see what wireless access points (WAP) you can find and access.
Because of the ink wardriving has received over the years, many home and business users have wised up and added security to their WAPs. But how about the busy traveler, the exec at Marriott, or the slacker at Starbucks? Do they take that same level of care with wireless security while they’re on the road and seduced by the easy availability of Wi-Fi hotspots? Probably not, but they should. Here are three simple assumptions you should make before taking your wireless laptop on the road.
Memorize these rules, understand what they mean, and learn what to do to protect yourself. When you can do that, you can begin to protect your private, confidential, and corporate data from inquisitive eyes.
- Always assume someone is trying to see you enter a user ID or password.
- Always assume that someone is reading every packet you send and receive by Wi-Fi.
- Always assume that an “evil twin” is lurking near every Wi-Fi access point.
