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Infosec: Hackers use fake Wi-Fi Hotspots to Launch Attacks Print E-mail
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Source: computerworlduk - Posted by Bill Keys   
Wireless Security The next time you splurge on a double latte and sip it while browsing the internet via the cafe's Wi-Fi, beware of the "evil twin."

That is the term for a Wi-Fi access point that appears to be a legitimate one offered on the premises, but actually has been set up by a hacker to eavesdrop on wireless communications among internet surfers

Unfortunately, experts say there is little consumers can do to protect themselves, but enterprises may be in better shape.

With the growth in wireless networks, the "evil twin" type of attack is on the rise, said Phil Cracknell, president of the UK branch of the Information Systems Security Association. Such attacks are much easier than others seeking logins or passwords, such as phishing, which involves setting up a fraudulent web site and luring people there, Cracknell said.

Read this full article at computerworlduk

Comments
PreventableWritten by CipherOne on 2007-05-02 10:24:40
This scenario is definately preventable, legimtately owned business that invested in Wi-Fi for consumers use usually charge consumers to use the service, a good example is Starbucks uses Singular's Wi-Fi services to sell to customers. If a proper protocol is set up between the AP and the station it can be prevented, a good start is a Radius server with user name and passwords assigned dynamically to paying customers who have the service like your ISPs who use PPPoE.  
 
MAC verification is not good enough however, anyone with a linux computer can forge MAC addresses.

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