Researchers have detected a vulnerability in WiFi security, through which WiFi Protected Access II (WPA2) connecting traffic can be manipulated putting devices at risk of hacks. It concerns the authentication system which is widely used to secure wireless connections.
Watch this BBC News video for a simple explanation of the issue.
Since WPA2 is a protocol that secures all modern protected WiFi networks, laptops, desktops, phones, and other devices that support WiFi, are likely affected. Major developers, including Microsoft® and Google®, have stated they will be releasing patches soon.
Action for WiFi Security
Simply changing WiFi network passwords is not going to help – software and firmware will need to be updated to workaround this deep design flaw. The weaknesses are in the WiFi standard itself, and not in individual products or implementations. Therefore, any correct implementation of WPA2 is likely affected. To prevent the attack, users must update affected products as soon as security updates become available.
Understand what devices are present in your network, and be prepared to patch them as fixes become available. As a best practice, it is critical you have a proactive patching program in place.
Curve IT will be conducting the required patching for contracted devices as soon as the fixes become available. We will be in touch with all clients to advise on specific patches your company may require.
If you’re concerned about your WiFi connection, please do get in touch.
Call 01273 806 220