Home wireless networks make ripe pickings for Internet predators - Syracuse University

Out-of-the-box wireless router systems come with most security features turned off

One of the fastest growing markets in computer gadgetry, experts say, is do it yourself wireless networks that consumers are building in the comfort of their homes. For a relatively small investment in a wireless router system ($100 to $200), consumers gain the freedom to access their wired Internet service provider (cable modem or DSL line) from anywhere in the house. Unfortunately, many consumers don't know how to secure their new wireless networks from Internet predators.

The problem lies in the fact that most wireless systems on the market come with the security features turned off in order to make the installation process easier, says Lee Badman, information technology analyst for the University's Computing and Media Services (CMS). To activate the security features, consumers must read the fine print in the manual; and some of the instructions are complex. But failure to go through the process places consumers at risk for identity theft or worse, he says.

"With the security features turned off, anyone within radio range can use a wireless 'sniffing' device to intercept your signal and capture all the data that is passing through the airwaves between your wireless laptop and your wired connection point," Badman says. "They might harvest such information as credit card numbers and bank account passwords. They can join your network and use it to download illegal material or to launch virus and spam attacks across the Internet. The illegal activity would likely be traced back to your computer. They could also lock you out of your own network."

To avoid falling prey to such Internet predators, Badman recommends consumers take a few basic steps to secure their wireless networks.

Read the manual before turning the network on.
Change the SSID (default network name) to something obscure, which does not point back to your family, address, or other personal characteristics.
Disable "Broadcast of SSID". You will be able to view the network name, but "snoopers" won't.
Change the default administrative password. The default administrative passwords that come with the devices are readily available on the Internet for most wireless models.
Enable the encryption feature on your wireless device. This feature will protect the data when it travels through the airwaves from your laptop computer to your wired network.
Turn on the MAC filter. This security feature will only let computers with selected MAC addresses onto your network. It will lock out all other devices trying to access your network.
Turn the wireless system off when you are not using it or when you are away on vacation.

-- by Judy Holmes