Is Your Wi-Fi On ‘Krack’? A Wi-Fi Security Concern

Wi-Fi's inception was a science fiction fantasy come reality. There is no need for cellular data, computers can be used everywhere in the house, and our gadgets are all interacting. It's the backbone of the smart home and A business tech boom. Most networks are password-protected with WPA2 encryption, which has proven safe and secure until a couple of years ago.

The KRACK security hole was discovered, allowing hackers to enter into Wi-Fi networks, even secured ones. As a result, your laptop, phone, game console, and even smart fridge may be at risk.

How KRACK Works

The Key Reinstallation AttaCK It's not your device or how it's set up. It's a flaw in Wi-Fi technology. Hackers must reach between your device and the access point (e.g., router). Using Wi-Fi means hackers may access your credit card data, passwords, chat messages, emails, and images.

NOTE: To exploit this issue, the hacker must be physically close to your Wi-Fi, unlike other types of attacks. Most Wi-Fi ranges extend much beyond your own home/business, so this is minor consolation.

Protecting Yourself

Run Updates

The problem has been fixed through software updates. Take a few minutes to update all patches on any Wi-Fi device (your smartphones, laptops, tablets, PCs, game consoles, etc.). Unfortunately, specific devices may take a long time to update or may not receive an update at all. If possible, use a cabled connection or update a device that supports it. If you have a device purchased after 2018, you should be okay, but run your updates just in case.

Take Care with Public Wi-Fi

While your local business center, library, or school campus has qualified IT workers guarding your security, your local coffee shop does not. Small businesses are unlikely to be up to date on security patches. If you're in the same Wi-Fi area as a hacker, don't give them your personal data with their coffee.

Browser Security

Check that you're utilizing an HTTPS site before transmitting anything secure. The URL will have a padlock next to it, and the address will start with HTTPS. Facebook, Gmail, and banks already utilize HTTPS.

Conclusion

So now you are aware if your Wi-FI is susceptible to KRACK and are armed with the knowledge to keep it from 'smoking it.'

I usually write on topics related to business IT and provide ITSM processes and IT policy resources. Still, I also enjoy writing about user-related IT challenges.

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