"Securing
Your Wireless Home Network"
Do you have a wireless network installed in your home? If
so, did you know that hackers might be using your Internet connection
without your knowledge or consent?
It's called "Drive-By Clicking" and it is becoming more and
more popular all the time. Here is how it works:
A hacker drives through a residential neighborhood with a
laptop computer equipped with a wireless network adapter. If
a wireless router isn't configured for secure communications
the hacker's laptop can detect the signal, stop his car, and
access the Internet using the unsuspecting homeowner's Internet
connection.
He can send spam emails (potentially getting the homeowner
in trouble) and even access sensitive information on the host's
computer.
If you have a wireless router you can protect yourself with
these tips:
- Change your router's password from the factory default (which
most "competent" hackers are familiar with) to a new one.
- If you have file sharing enabled on your PC be surer to activate
password protection.
- Enable encryption (WEP) in your router's configuration settings.
- Be alert for clues that someone else is using your Internet
Connection or home network. These include excessive Internet
traffic through your cable or DSL modem (the data lights will
flash more than usual) and a sluggish PC with lots of unsual
hard drive activity.
Taking the time to secure your wireless network from cyber-intruders
could save you lots of headaches and losses in the future.
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