Warning about a massive threat to the Wi-Fi network: the Wardriving attack, in which hackers try to hack into your Wi-Fi network from their own cars
Hackers are never at rest. Furthermore, they frequently use several methods to conceal their illegal activities. Although not a new practice, wardriving, in which a hacker attempts to gain unauthorized access to Wi-Fi networks from a moving vehicle, has increased significantly in some parts of Europe, including Germany. While no cases have been reported in the Arab world thus far, this activity may reach our countries in the future if appropriate measures are not implemented and criminals continue to operate freely.
- Wardriving: This is how hackers attempt to access your Wi-Fi network from their own vehicles.
On April 1, German media outlet Chip reported on a worrying trend: wardriving, which is becoming more prevalent in Germany. As the name implies, it is a practice in which one or more hackers patrol residential areas to ensure the security of Wi-Fi networks. The goal is clear: They seek out wireless networks that are particularly appealing, either due to weak passwords or because the network is unprotected and can be accessed directly.
Panda Security warns that networks with inadequate or no security can be a highly profitable business opportunity for cybercriminals. Criminals can steal all types of files and personal data as a result of these breaches and unauthorized access if we have devices connected to this network, such as laptops and desktop computers. They can use this material to conduct fraudulent operations such as phishing and identity theft, as well as blackmail victims directly if they obtain intimate information. Another associated risk is that they may use our network for criminal purposes, for which we, as owners, may be held responsible.
These attacks are carried out with specialized equipment, such as powerful antennas and small Raspberry Pi computers, which enable attackers to detect and map Wi-Fi networks over long distances. With this digital "map" of networks in hand, criminals determine who will be the best "prey" and carry out their attacks. The goal, however, is always the same: take over as many networks as possible in order to exploit potential security flaws and vulnerabilities.
- How do we prevent unauthorized access to our Wi-Fi network?
While no wireless network is completely secure with an unbreakable password, we can certainly implement practices that make it more difficult for the "bad guys." These precautions include not sharing our passwords with anyone outside of our immediate circle, not using the default router password and instead setting a custom password or changing it on a regular basis, using the strongest encryption possible, such as WPA3, and activating the firewall.
Another good practice is to turn off or unplug your router when you leave the house or go to sleep. This not only saves energy but also eliminates the possibility of remote interference by turning off the access point's power supply.