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Technologically speaking, communication has evolved lights years ahead of where it was just fifty years ago. Let's face it; when's the last time you actually sent a telegram? Unfortunately, however, just as with virtually everything else common to man, there are negative elements that must be considered along with the positive features delivered by advanced and improved technology.
For example, when cable modems and digital subscriber lines (DSL) were introduced, few computer users realized that they would become part of a network of online customers. This, of course, led to concerns about the safety and security of personal information and digital files. Today, it's commonly recommended that you shut down your computer when not in use and the cable to your PC from the modem disconnected to avoid hacking.
Subsequently, wireless networking technology (commonly known as "Wi-Fi") came along and, quite predictably, individuals began buying wireless computers in droves. Today, there are literally thousands of places where you can connect to the internet via wireless technology (called Wi-Fi "hot spots"), regardless of where you may currently happen to be located. But – you guessed it – there's still one problem. Just as hacking into a wire-based network is a very real threat, using wireless technology (especially in a public hot spot such as an Internet café or local public library) enables hackers that are within range of your computer to possibly gain access into it. Due to the fact that these hot spots are often unsecured networks, the hacker can position him- or herself as close to the signal as possible and, by boosting the signal power, can actually take over the network.
According to information provided by the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), "the hacker can rename the network and get hot spot visitors to log onto it. Once you enter his (or her) network, the hacker can get your user ID, passwords and, if you're doing online shopping or banking, your credit card- or bank account information."
Furthermore, the FBI's Cyber Investigations Division recommends you also keep readily in mind that the connection between your laptop computer and an attacker's laptop runs both ways. This means that while he (or she) is taking information from you, you may be unwittingly downloading viruses, worms or other 'malware' (or, malicious software) from them.
In order to protect your sensitive personal- and/or financial information, here are a few prudent recommendations that you should heed:
- Manually select the network you'll be connecting to and check that, when you sign on, it's definitely the one you've chosen.
- Don't conduct any online banking or shopping while at a 'hot spot.' Wait until you can be sure that you'll have access to a secure network.
- Upload the best anti-virus, firewall and encryption software that you can afford.
- Just as with your home-based PC, shut down your laptop when not in use.
Indeed, wireless technology is an efficient and convenient way in which to communicate and conduct business. But, unless you're fully aware of the problems associated with it, the convenience that it affords may not be worth the possible cost it could inflict upon your digital security. So, above all else, be careful!
