How do hackers use public WiFi to steal your data?

At any moment you may need to access the Internet. So, you may fall into the trap and use public WiFi. But you shouldn't! Hackers exploit public WiFi networks to steal data and infect your device with malware.

Here, we'll look at the ways a hacker can use public WiFi to steal your personal information:

1. Man-in-the-Middle attacks (MITM)

When a hacker intercepts the communication between two parties, it's called a Man-in-the-Middle (MITM) attack. During these attacks, data is n't sent directly between you and the server. The hacker secretly intervenes and can display fake messages or websites to steal useful information.

Public WiFi users are prime targets for MITM attacks because the information they send is often unencrypted. This makes hackers to steal data. Once they're in, they can get your emails, usernames, passwords, and more. They might even steal your accounts.

See also: How to boost WiFi on devices that need it most?

2. Fake Wi-Fi connections

Also known as the “Evil Twin,” this type of attack tricks usersinto connecting to a fake WiFi network created by a hacker. The hacker can then steal all the data you send over that network.

Be careful if you see two public WiFi networks with similar names. Ask to find out which one is the real one.

3. Packet Sniffing

This method allows hackers to steal data packets over unencrypted networks and analyze them. Packet sniffing is not always illegal. IT professionals also use it to maintain security, but cybercriminals can exploit it to steal passwords and other sensitive information.

4. Sidejacking (Session Hijacking)

Sidejacking is like real-time packet sniffing. Hackers use stolen data to hijack your current session on a website, gaining access to your private accounts and information.

While they can't read your password directly , they can download malware or gather enough information to steal your identity.

See also: WiFi routers: What's the mistake we all make!

5. DNS Spoofing

DNS (Domain Name System) is like the Internet, translating domain names into IP addresses. Hackers can manipulate DNS settings to redirect your traffic to malicious websites, even if you've entered the correct web address.

6. Shoulder Surfing

Shoulder-surfing refers to the simple tactic of having someone watch over your shoulderas you type in passwords or other important information.

7. WiFi phishing

WiFi phishing involves creating fake WiFi networks that mimic legitimate ones. When users connect to public fake WiFi networks, attackers can steal their data or trick them into entering sensitive information.

Always check the authenticity of Wi-Fi networks before connecting, especially in public places.

8. Keylogger

Keyloggers are malicious software or devices that record the keystrokes of victims. If a hacker manages to install a keylogger on a public computer or compromised device, they can record usernames, passwords, and other sensitive information that users enter.

See also: How to find the WiFi password on your Mac and how to share it on iPhone?

How to protect yourself from the above risks of public WiFi?

The first and most important practice for protecting data when using public WiFi is to use a reliable VPN (Virtual Private Network). A VPN encrypts your data and offers anonymity. VPN is recommended for most of the above risks.

Second, avoid accessing sensitive websites, such as banks or websites that require personal information, when you are connected to public WiFi.

Third, make sure the websites you visit use the HTTPS protocol instead of HTTP. HTTPS encrypts the communication between your browser and the website, offering an extra layer of protection.

Fourth, turn off automatic connection to networks . This will prevent you from accidentally connecting to unsecured networks.

Finally, update your device's software regularly. Software updates often include security fixes that can help protect your data.

Source: securityaffairs.com