Hackers prowl on unsecured wireless networks

York, UK: Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are endangering critical corporate information because they are failing to adequately secure their wireless networks.

Failure to change preset simple 'admin' security settings, or choosing easy-to-crack passwords and allowing the network to be visible to potential attackers are the three most common mistakes made by small and medium businesses with their wireless setup.

Firebrand Training is urging SMEs to take a more proactive approach to their wireless security - and they say it is by learning the tricks used by hackers that they will stay one step ahead of potential attacks.

The Accelerated Learning pioneer has launched a White Paper "Wireless networks: are we just leaving the stable door wide open?", outlining the key strategies employed by hackers against corporate wireless networks. It is by understanding the tactics used in a hacking attack, SMEs can pre-test their wireless networks for the potential weaknesses which could be compromised in a real life breach.

The industry White Paper from IT training specialists highlights the grave dangers facing many SMEs in the UK today, and advises that learning to "think like hackers" is the best solution.

It also recommends using tools implemented by hackers to glean information about a wireless network before an attack. Common tricks used by hackers include 'sniffers' such as Kismet, penetration tools like the Aircrack suite and tracers such as Netstumbler are set out as potentially helpful elements to test a network's resilience.

"Many SMEs may not have a dedicated team in charge of network security, but this is no excuse for not having the necessary measures in place," said Rob Chapman, CEO, Firebrand Training. "Wireless networks are highly convenient and extremely quick to implement but if simple security measures are ignored, wireless weaknesses could open the door to a devastating hack attack."

"Know your enemy," Chapman continued, "Tracking the footprints of an attack before it happens, and taking effective steps to protect the network against specific threats will be the only way small businesses will ensure their data remains secure and in the right hands."