Types of Attacks That Target Wireless Networks

Wi-Fi networks are often vulnerable to several types of cyber attacks. Using an unsecured Wi-Fi network at the local coffee shop or other public spaces can significantly increase your risk of these dangers. Many of these public networks can easily be infiltrated by hackers without you even realizing it. Staying aware of these evolving threats and partnering with a company that offers data security management is essential in keeping your information safe.

Here are a few of the most common types of attacks targeting wireless networks.

Packet Sniffing

Capturing data from wireless networks is known as "packet sniffing," as this data is sent over a network in packets. Much of this information is sent in plain text without any encryption, which makes it a gold mine for cybercriminals. Hackers can easily intercept passwords and other sensitive information by using various tools. Encrypted data can also be captured, but it's much more difficult for an attacker to decipher encrypted data packets.

Man in the Middle Attack (MITM)

Hackers can also trick devices into sending their transmissions directly to them. These Man-in-the-Middle (MITM) attacks can record all of your traffic and insert malware into each packet. Cybercriminals can also modify the content of files or block communication. Using a virtual private network (VPN) and installing browser plug-ins to force website traffic to HTTPS is essential in keeping your data safe.

Wi-Fi Jamming

A wireless network can be jammed in a variety of ways, effectively blocking communication over it. For example, a cybercriminal can flood the access point (AP) with deauthentication frames.

Normally, deauthentication frames are used by a client to disconnect from an AP after a data exchange has been completed.  Flooding the AP with deauthentication frames ultimately overwhelms the entire network and makes it impossible for anyone to use.

The extended amount of downtime caused by this type of attack can not only create significant stress within your workforce by disrupting normal business activity. That disruption and the cost to fix the problem can result in significant financial losses.

How to Avoid or Mitigate Wireless Network Attacks

Wi-Fi network hacking is a major security risk that can result in your data falling into the hands of cybercriminals. One way to avoid these threats is to use a VPN if you ever plan to use Wi-Fi in a public place. Lack of security is an all too common problem with public Wi-Fi spots, making them a prime target for cybercriminals.

Hackers can also target the Wi-Fi network of your business, so it's essential to take a few precautionary steps to keep your network protected. These steps include changing the default name of your Wi-Fi network and password. Using a complex password is essential in making it difficult for hackers to access your system. Downloading the latest firmware updates is also important in keeping your network secure.

Want to Learn More?

Give our team at GSDSolutions IT Services a call at (650) 282-7695, or email us at getstuffdone@gsdsolutions.io, to learn more about how we can help you put a robust cybersecurity strategy in place for your business.

GSDSolutions IT Services

GSDSolutions specializes in data security management for businesses across the Bay Area and Central Valley. We understand the importance of offering state-of-the-art cybersecurity protection. Our ongoing risk mitigation services include end-to-end protection, around the clock data security, incident response planning, and business continuity services. We also provide an auditable level of maintenance to ensure you stay in compliance with industry regulations.

 

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