In the modern world, a person's safety depends a lot on themselves. We keep track of our belongings, use complex passwords, check information and even have access to modern and reliable tools like the Number Tracker app that helps us in this matter. For example, with its help we can easily track phone number free of charge, track our location and the whereabouts of our loved ones, create a shared private circle, receive notifications and be sure of the results and our safety.
But when it comes not to physical security, but to caution and safety in the digital world, especially on Wi-Fi networks, many people are lost. They think their home internet is password-protected and public networks are safe as long as they do not enter personal information. However, this is far from being the case. Wi-Fi remains one of the most vulnerable spots for cyberattacks, and fraudsters can access your data even if you think you are taking all the precautions.
So today we are going to discuss common myths about Wi-Fi security and talk about which threats are real, and which are just rumors, and most importantly, learn how you can protect yourself and your data.
Better Safe Than Sorry: Things You Should Know
Wireless networks are one of the most vulnerable points for cyberattacks. Many users believe that since they do not store banking data on their phone or laptop, they have nothing to fear. However, Wi-Fi hacking is not just about accessing your correspondence or social networks, but also about hackers gaining control of smart devices in your home, intercepting your online queries or even introducing malware.
But how real are these threats? Can hackers really break into your network in minutes? Or maybe they are just myths spawned by internet scaremongers? Well, below we will consider what the risks really are and what you need to do to protect yourself from them.
Myth 1: If the Password is Complex, No One Can Hack My Wi-Fi
One of the main points of defense for a wireless network is the password. Many users believe that if they set a long and complex code made up of letters, numbers, and special characters, they can feel safe. Is this true? Not really, as there are several methods hackers can use to bypass even the most complex combination.
Why is a complex password not a guarantee of security?
A password is only one part of a security system. Even if you set a 20-digit code but use an outdated encryption protocol (such as WEP), it can take just a few minutes to break into your network. Hackers use password-mining programs such as Aircrack-ng, Hashcat, and Reaver that brute force thousands of combinations per second. Furthermore, if an attacker has recorded some of the network traffic, they can try to decrypt the password offline without attracting attention.
So what to do?
Use modern encryption protocols. The most secure at the moment is WPA3. If your router does not support it, the minimum acceptable option is WPA2-PSK with AES. Never use the outdated WEP - it can be cracked in minutes.
Disable WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup). Due to this feature the one will be able to connect to the network by pressing a button on the router or entering a short PIN code. But this option contains serious vulnerabilities that hackers can easily exploit.
Hide the SSID (network name). This option does not provide complete protection, but it makes it harder for attackers to break in.
Myth 2: Public Wi-Fi Is Safe If You Do Not Enter Passwords and Bank Data
Many people believe that using public Wi-Fi in a coffee shop, shopping mall or airport is safe as long as you do not enter sensitive information. It seems logical: if you're just reading the news or watching a video, there's nothing for hackers to steal. However, this is far from the truth. Public Wi-Fi networks are an ideal environment for hackers, and even just simple surfing the internet can be a reason for a serious data leakage.
How does one attack over public Wi-Fi?
Man-in-the-Middle (MITM) attack. The hacker connects to the same network and starts intercepting all your traffic. As a result, one can see your passwords, messages, and even change the pages you visit.
Creating fake Wi-Fi. For example, in a cafe, you connect not to the official “Coffee_WiFi” network, but to the attacker's network with the same name. In this case, he can see everything you do on the Internet.
Malware injection. Through vulnerabilities in the network, hackers can infect your device with viruses or spyware.
How to protect yourself on public Wi-Fi networks? The best way is to use a VPN. A virtual private network encrypts all your internet traffic, making it invisible to hackers. Even if they try to intercept the data, they will only get an encrypted stream that cannot be decrypted without the key.
It's also important to avoid logging into personal accounts when connecting to public networks. Even if you do not enter passwords, attackers can intercept cookies (authorization data) and use them to access your accounts.
Another useful measure is to disable automatic Wi-Fi connection. Many smartphones and laptops automatically connect to known networks, making them vulnerable to Evil Twin attacks. So, due to disabling this feature, you will be able to manually choose which network to connect to, reducing the risk of being tricked.
Myth 3: Wi-Fi Hacking Requires Special Knowledge and Equipment
There is a common belief that hacking Wi-Fi is a complex process, accessible only to professional hackers with powerful computers and expensive equipment. However, the reality is much more alarming: today, anyone with minimal technical knowledge and an ordinary laptop can try to hack into a network.
The Internet is full of instructions and tools that allow even novices to gain unauthorized access to Wi-Fi. Many of these programs are distributed for free and have an intuitive interface. Hacking into a network protected by an outdated protocol or a weak password takes minutes.
The following programs can be used to hack your network: Aircrack-ng (to analyze Wi-Fi traffic and pick passwords), Reaver (to attack WPS, allowing you to find out the network password in just a few hours), Wireshark (to analyze network traffic to intercept the information being transmitted).
So, in 2018, cybersecurity researchers showed that 75% of Wi-Fi networks can be hacked in less than 10 minutes if they use weak passwords or outdated protection protocols.
Are there some options to protect yourself? First of all, start with using strong passwords and up-to-date security protocols to avoid becoming an easy target. It is recommended to disable WPS, as this feature makes it much easier to hack. And the second important step is to regularly update the router's firmware. Manufacturers are constantly releasing updates, so remember to install all of them to fix vulnerabilities that hackers can exploit.
Myth 4: Hackers Are Not Interested in Regular Users
Many people believe that cybercriminals only go after large companies, government agencies and banks, and that ordinary people have nothing to fear. In fact, this is a dangerous misconception. Home networks are one of hackers' top targets, and below you may study why.
Why would attackers hack into home networks?
Identity theft. Personal data is a valuable commodity on the black market. Your passwords, correspondence, photos, bank card details can all be used for fraud, blackmail or sale on the darknet.
Using your network for anonymous criminal activities. Imagine your neighbor's hacker using your network for illegal activities. In case of an investigation, law enforcement would be the first to target you and your network.
Hacking into “smart” devices. The main purpose of hacking and accessing video cameras, speakers, TVs, thermostats is to gain control and perform surveillance on you (because due to them hackers can not only peek, but even control the appliances in your home).
It is possible to guess that your network has been hacked if you are careful and pay attention to certain features. For example, your Internet may work noticeably slower, although there are few devices connected. Moreover, you may notice unfamiliar names in the list of connected devices, and the router log (if you open it) may show connections from unknown IP addresses.
What to do if you are hacked? The first thing to do is change your Wi-Fi password to a new, complex one containing letters, numbers and special characters. Next, switch to WPA3 or WPA2 with AES and disable WPS, if it is activated. As a last resort, reset the router to factory settings, then install the latest firmware version and set up the network again.
Smart Wi-Fi - Secure Wi-Fi
In the age of technology, security is expanding its basic boundaries: it is no longer enough to just lock your doors - now it is important to protect your digital space as well. Be careful, use modern protection methods and remember that in the cyber world, it's better to be paranoid than a victim.