Wireless networks are widely used and this also makes attackers look for ways to carry out different types of attacks to steal information and compromise users. One of these methods is known as Wi-Fi Eavesdropping. It can seriously affect privacy and even infect a computer.
Wi-Fi Eavesdropping, a variety of MitM attack
Man-in-the-Middle attacks are very varied, although they all have one thing in common: an intruder interfering with communications. A clear example is when we send information over the Internet and there is an attacker who can read that message, listen to that audio, or see what searches we have done.
Where is it common to find this attack on wireless networks?
Public places: We can name, for example, public places such as libraries, parks, universities... These are spaces where it is more than likely that there are Wi-Fi networks available for free to users. If an attacker goes to a library and creates a Wi-Fi network with the name Wi-Fi_Library, the victim might not suspect that it is really a scam.
Malls: Similar to the above are shopping malls. They are spaces where there can be many people in the same space of time. Wi-Fi networks are usually available, but sometimes they do not cover the entire surface or the signal is weak. This causes users to try other networks they find without encryption.
Workplaces: On the other hand, workspaces are also a good place for them to deploy fake networks and carry out what is known as Wi-Fi Eavesdropping. We are especially talking about places where there are workers from different sections and companies. It may be that at any given time they need a connection and the network does not reach it well and they look for an independent Wi-Fi.
How to Avoid Wi-Fi Eavesdropping Attacks
Undoubtedly something fundamental is to analyze very well the network to which we are going to connect. We must see that the name corresponds to the real network. Let's say for example that we are in a bar and we are going to connect to its Wi-Fi. The normal thing is that they have a paper with the name of the network and password.
Use VPN: Another very important issue to protect ourselves from Wi-Fi Eavesdropping and any other problem in public networks is to have a VPN. This will help us encrypt the connection and avoid privacy and security problems.
Avoid open Wi-Fi networks: We must also mention the importance of connecting only to networks that are encrypted. You have to avoid open Wi-Fi networks, those that do not have passwords. They could have been created to serve as bait or that cybercriminals have even entered to deploy their attacks.
Protect equipment: Something also essential is to use protected equipment. We must have security programs that protect us, that prevent the entry of malware. In addition, it is essential that they are correctly updated to connect with all the guarantees.
In short, Wi-Fi Eavesdropping is a major problem that we can experience when connecting to a public Wi-Fi network. We must at all times maintain security and avoid risks that compromise our privacy. There are many attacks on the network and we must always be alert.