Half of wi-fi networks can be hacked in seconds

[Vino Rosso]

Nearly half of home wi-fi networks can be hacked in less than five seconds, according to a study carried out across UK cities.

Of the 40,000 networks identified in the six cities, just under 20,000 had no password or the most basic form of security encryption, the research for card protection and insurance company CPP found.

In the ''ethical hacking'' experiment, researchers spent half an hour in each city using freely available software to use as many unsecured wireless connections as possible.

Almost a quarter of the private networks (9,249) had no password, despite 82% of Britons believing their network is secure.

But the study found even password-protected networks were not secure, with hackers able to breach a typical password in seconds.

The hackers were also able to ''harvest'' usernames and passwords at a rate of more than 350 an hour when sitting in town-centre coffee shops and restaurants.

CPP identity fraud expert Michael Lynch said: ''This report is a real eye-opener in highlighting how many of us have a cavalier attitude to wi-fi use, despite the very real dangers posed by unauthorised use.

''We urge all wi-fi users to remember that any information they volunteer through public networks can easily be visible to hackers. It's vital they remain vigilant, ensure their networks are secure and regularly monitor their credit reports and bank statements for unsolicited activity.''

Reference: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/technology/8 ... conds.html

[turtledove]

a rate of more than 350 an hour

Yikes ....I'll be sure to make mine hard to get, should I get a wi-Fi computer that is.
And, keep my young teen off of it to boot.
Thanks for the article.