Wireless Security Information:

If you use a wireless computer network you may be at risk!

IT ProCon recently conducted a scan in a local neighborhood for wireless computer networks.  At the time of this scan, 40 unsecured wireless computer networks were detected.  These unsecured networks represent a serious security risk to anyone using them.  They are easily accessed by anyone with a wireless laptop computer, including your neighbors, computer hackers, or someone sitting in a near by car.

Scan Results:

Specific threats and vulnerabilities to unsecured wireless networks include the following:

Identity Theft / Eavesdroppers: Because wireless networks are broadcast over radio waves, the theft of a wireless user's identity poses one the greatest threats.  Eavesdroppers with the appropriate software can listen to the airwaves and capture private information, including instant messaging and email messages.

Financial Information: If you use online banking or credit cards, then malicious intruders could gain access to your bank accounts, passwords, pin numbers, credit card numbers and other private information.

Information Theft:  Intruders could gain access to the data stored on your computer including, documents, email messages, and addresses to websites that you’ve visited.

Hackers / Viruses / Spammers: Malicious intruders could use your networks identity for illegal activity, including computer hacking, sending out virus and spam.  Since they use your networks identity to hide theirs, their criminal activity could be traced back to your system.

Internet Service Theft:  Other people nearby could be using your service to access the internet without your knowledge, slowing down the speed of your internet connection.

The threats to unsecured wireless networks can not be overstated.  If you do not know whether or not your wireless network is secured, then it probably is not.  Because of the complexities of setting up wireless security, most manufactures of wireless equipment have the security settings disabled by default.

No amount of security will keep out a skilled and determined hacker.  However, no security can allow anyone in.  We can help minimize your risk by configuring your wireless network security.  If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please call David on our mobile hotline at 757-410-8282.