Millions of Wi-Fi Users Exposed to Hacker Attacks – Kaspersky Lab

A recently uncovered Wi-Fi vulnerability poses real security risks, Vladimir Kuskov, an analyst at the Russian software company Kaspersky Lab, said. Potential attackers can access users’ Internet traffic and intercept sensitive information.

"The WPA2 protocol (the security standard for all modern protected Wi-Fi networks) has real flaws that could be dangerous for all Wi-Fi users," Kuskov told Sputnik.

According to the specialist, potential attackers could connect to a Wi-Fi network and intercept its traffic. They could also modify intercepted traffic, injecting it with ransomware and other malware.

Earlier, it was reported that Mathy Vanhoef, a postdoctoral researcher at KU Leuven University in Belgium, had disclosed major vulnerabilities in the WPA2 protocol, which could lead to the interception of sensitive information, including bank card numbers, passwords, emails and photos.

According to Vanhoef, the vulnerabilities can be patched, but a simple password change would not secure the system.

Kuskov explained that in order to decipher traffic, an attacker would simply need to bring his computer within range of the targeted Wi-Fi network and run special software.

To prevent a hacker attack, he recommended keeping all of your Wi-Fi compatible devices updated, running antivirus software and using virtual private network (VPN) services.