Nowadays, a wireless router is so easy to set up that after some fifteen, thirty minutes, you can be surfing the web in a bathing suit on your balcony or in your backyard. Catch some rays and travel the globe – no strings attached! Everything is working as it should with nothing to worry about – or so you think!
If you live in the dorms at the University of Maryland, you do not even need to be an expert to configure a wireless router. With the self-installation CD-ROM that comes with the wireless router and a few simple clicks, you’re off and ready. Some routers do not even require you to change the password, which remains “admin,” the default.
In many cases, this vulnerability allows hackers access to your personal information, using your identity to gain access to other computers. The ease of setup and access is a lethal combination because it can lead to complacency regarding your wireless security. Hackers use available wireless vulnerability scanning tools like “NetStumber,” as well as “Aircrack” and retina wi-fi scanners.
Early this year, Maryland legislative auditors found that the UMCP wireless network was not secure. What can you do to prevent hackers from hacking into your system?
Change the default password: Remember to change your wireless router password from the default to prevent hackers’ access to your personal information.
If you walk around on the campus, there are many open hotspots available to exploit. Securing your wireless is only the first step in preventing access to hackers. This is a simple precautionary step to initially secure your wireless access point. Like your front door, always keep your router door locked to prevent hackers from entering.
Have a strong password: Make sure your password is at least eight characters long and a combination of letters and numbers to ensure a hacker cannot penetrate your system.
Restrict Access: Restrict access from unauthorized users. Each wireless card device has a MAC (Media Access Control) which is like a home address for wireless cards. Make sure you configure and filter the MAC address, so it only allows access to those who have rights.
Encrypt your data: The two most common encryptions are the WEP (Wired Encryption Protocol) and the WiFi Protected Access (WPA) method. To find out whether your router supports WEP or WPA, just look into the back of your wireless router. If there is no support, it may be a good idea to buy a wireless router that provides WPA encryption feature.
Be sure to use a firewall: This prevents hackers from accessing your personal data and damaging your systems. Specifically, you should have a host- based firewall, meaning that it filters traffic based on the rule setup on your firewall. Your Windows personal firewall is an example of a host-based firewall.
Update your anti-virus software: You may also reduce the number of attacks by installing anti-virus software on your PC. It prevents viruses, worms and Trojan horses from getting into your system. Frequent updates are needed to keep the software up-to-date.
With these precautionary steps, your wireless security is less likely to fall victim to attacks.
Victor Tsao is a candidate for a Masters of Computer Systems Management at the University of Maryland-University College. He can be reached at vtsao@umuc.edu.
