MitM (man-in-the-middle) attacks.
- Public Wi-Fi Convenience with Hidden Risks
- Free Wi-Fi at coffee shops, airports, and other public places is a convenience, but it can be a security risk.
- Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) Attack
- Hackers can intercept communication between your device and a public Wi-Fi network.
- Imagine a hidden eavesdropper in the middle of your online conversation.
- What Hackers Can Steal
- Login credentials (usernames & passwords) for email, bank accounts, etc.
- Personal information from browsing activity or online forms.
- Even infect your device with malware!
Defending Against Man-in-the-Middle Attacks
- Secure Wi-Fi Networks: Avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive activities like online banking. Consider a Virtual Private Network (VPN) for added security on public networks.
- Strong Encryption: Use a strong encryption protocol (WPA2 or WPA3) on your home Wi-Fi network and avoid outdated protocols like WEP.
- Beware of Unfamiliar Networks: Don’t connect to unknown Wi-Fi networks, especially those with generic names.