What is the ‘Wi-Fi Pineapple’ cyber attack? Know how to avoid it

 What is the ‘Wi-Fi Pineapple’ cyber attack? Know how to avoid it

Nowadays, the internet has become an integral part of our daily lives. The availability of free Wi-Fi in public places has made it easier for many. However, it has also added security challenges. One such threat is the ‘Wi-Fi Pineapple’.

What is Wi-Fi Pineapple?

‘Wi-Fi Pineapple’ may sound like a funny name, but it is a threat to your cybersecurity. It is a device that is actually sold for Wi-Fi security checks, but it can be used to attack your device.

This device is named so because it looks like a pineapple. Because the early devices had antennas that protruded like pineapple leaves.

Although the term 'Wi-Fi pineapple' refers to a specific commercial tool that automates man-in-the-middle attacks, such attacks can also be carried out using readily available hardware such as laptops or small computers.

How does a Wi-Fi pineapple work?

There are two main types of cyberattacks that can be carried out using Wi-Fi networks:

1. Evil Twin Attack

In this, a hacker impersonates a Wi-Fi network that you already use or trust. They try to gain remote access to your device by making your device connect to this fake network and intercepting your data.

2. Rogue AP (Access Point) Attack

In this, an attacker advertises open networks in public places (such as coffee shops, airports, hotels). Users who are either alone or surfing the Internet are expected to connect to such networks. Once connected, the same consequences as previous evil twin attacks can occur, such as data theft or access to devices. Sometimes, people are fooled by simply naming the network something that looks like a hotel.

What are the risks?

For individual users: Connecting to a malicious Wi-Fi hotspot can steal your email, social media logins, and other sensitive information (including which websites you visit). Even if your data is encrypted, it can still be misused. Devices that are not properly configured with a firewall can gain remote access to a compromised network, putting all of your data on your device at risk.

For businesses: By inserting Wi-Fi pineapples and other malicious devices into the network (using an internet socket or stealing authorized Wi-Fi credentials), an attacker can gain unrestricted access to a company's internal infrastructure.

How to stay safe?

Here are some tips to help you avoid Wi-Fi pineapples and other fake hotspots.

Stay away from public Wi-Fi: If possible, avoid using public Wi-Fi. It's best to use your mobile phone's tethering to access the internet.

Use a VPN: If you must use public Wi-Fi, use a reliable VPN. Set it up so that all internet traffic goes through the VPN only. Some VPNs also have a 'kill switch'.

Check network names: Before connecting to a Wi-Fi network, check for duplicate or suspicious network names. Also consider whether the QR code is in a safe place before connecting by scanning it.

Disable Auto-Connect: Disable the auto-connect feature for public networks you've previously connected to so that you don't accidentally connect to a fake network again.

Keep your home network secure: Change your Wi-Fi network and administrator password at home regularly. Set up a separate guest network for guests. Create a separate IoT network for your smart devices. Also consider changing your network name if you see similar network names in your neighborhood.

Pay attention to security alerts: Always pay attention to SSL certificate warnings and unexpected redirects. Never log in to a website or app if you see such warnings. Even if the login screen looks different than usual, be suspicious that your traffic may be redirected to a fake site.

Use antivirus and firewall: Antivirus and personal firewalls play an important role when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks. They help detect and block malicious software and activity if your device is compromised.

How to protect businesses?

If you run a business and provide Wi-Fi to your employees and customers, it is your responsibility to keep it secure. Here are some steps you can take to ensure this:

Resource your IT team: Give your IT team the time and resources they need to keep your network infrastructure well-managed, secure, and up-to-date.

Scan your network: Use your network to detect unauthorized devices and rogue Wi-Fi networks. Scan your network regularly. If you find anything suspicious, find and remove the device.

Use enterprise-grade hardware: Use enterprise-grade Wi-Fi hardware that offers client isolation, management tools, and additional security features so that you can stay in control of your network.