Bob Milliken
Bob Milliken

A fundamental flaw with WiFi networks has recently been discovered by two security researchers. According to their reports, the KRACK vulnerability renders advanced encryption protocols useless and affects nearly every wireless device. Read on to find out more about KRACK hacks and how you can defend against them.

What is KRACK?

Simply put, KRACK, short for ‘key reinstallation attack,’ allows hackers to bypass WPA2 — a security protocol used by routers and devices to encrypt activity — and intercepts sensitive data passing between the mobile device and the wireless router, including login details, credit card numbers, private emails, photos and even your surveillance systems.

What’s worse, Internet of Things devices — like smart thermostats and IP cameras — rarely receive security fixes, and even if some are available, applying patches are difficult, as these devices tend to have complex user interfaces.

The good news, however, is you can do several things to mitigate the risks.

Download patches immediately

According to recent reports, security patches have already been released for major platforms, so make sure to install them as soon as possible.

Although IoT patches are rare, consider getting your smart devices from reputable vendors that push out updates regularly. It’s also a good idea to contact a managed services provider to install the updates for you.

WifiUse Ethernet connections

Some wireless routers don’t yet have a security patch, so while you’re waiting, use an Ethernet cable and disable your router’s wireless setting. Turn off the WiFi on your devices as well to make sure you’re not connecting to networks susceptible to KRACK.

Stay off public networks

Free public WiFi networks — even ones that are password-protected — in your local cafe should also be avoided because they usually don’t have holistic security measures in place, making them easy targets for cybercriminals.

Connect to HTTPS websites

If you do need to connect to the Internet through a public WiFi hotspot, visit websites that start with “HTTPS,” and stay away from ones that are prefaced with “HTTP.” This is because HTTPS websites encrypt all traffic between your browser and the website, regardless of whether the connection is vulnerable to KRACK or not.

Hop on a Virtual Private Network (VPN)

You can also use a VPN service to hide all network activity. Simply put, VPNs encrypt your internet connection so that all the data you’re transmitting is safe from prying eyes.

Your Take Away

Although the potential impact of a KRACK hack is devastating, security awareness and top-notch support are the best ways to stay safe online. Want more security tips? Call us at 604.270.1730 or by email at TheITguy @cascadiasystemsgroup.com and we’ll be happy to show you other ways in which avoid becoming another hacker victim.

Bob Milliken is the TheITguy@CascadiaSystemsGroup.com specializing in helping businesses with their IT needs. Our mission is to provide IT strategies, service and support that exceeds client expectations, creates raving fans and builds long term lasting relationships.