Evil Twin Attacks Explained

Hey there, Wi-Fi wanderers! So, you're sipping on your favorite coffee at the local café, scrolling through cat memes on your phone, and enjoying the free Wi-Fi. Life's good, right? But wait, have you ever wondered if that Wi-Fi connection you just joined is as trustworthy as it seems? Cue the ominous music – here comes the concept of Evil Twin Attacks.

Picture this: You connect to what looks like a harmless Wi-Fi network, maybe named "CuteCafeFreeWiFi," only to find out later that it's not as innocent as it sounds. That's the sneakiness of an Evil Twin Attack, a mischievous trickster in the world of wireless networks.

In this article, we're going to peel back the tech jargon and dive into the world of Evil Twin Attacks in a way that won't make your brain hurt. We'll chat about why Wi-Fi security matters, what on earth an Evil Twin is, and how it can ruin your cyber-picnic. So, buckle up, folks – let's unravel the mystery of Evil Twins and how to outsmart them! 🕵️‍♂️🔒

Understanding Wireless Networks 

Alright, imagine your Wi-Fi world as a bustling neighborhood where your devices go knocking on different doors to find a good connection. Sounds friendly, right? But, let's throw in a mischievous neighbor – the Evil Twin Attack.

Basics of Wi-Fi Technology

Okay, let's get down to the nitty-gritty of Wi-Fi – the tech that lets you binge-watch cat videos without a hitch. It's like magic, right? But hey, there's a method to this wireless madness, and understanding it can be your secret weapon against the notorious troublemaker: Evil Twin Attacks.
So, What's Wi-Fi All About, Anyway? Wi-Fi is like your digital postman. It sends and receives data wirelessly, so you can binge-watch those adorable cat videos without any annoying cables. It's the unsung hero of our tech-filled lives.

Meet the Sneaky Term: Evil Twin Attacks

Now, imagine you're waiting for a letter from your grandma. You expect "Grandma's Sweet Letter," but oh no, here comes "Grandma's Evil Twin Letter." That's what happens in Wi-Fi land when you unknowingly connect to a malicious twin – Evil Twin Attacks in action.

Why Should You Care About Evil Twin Attacks?

Here's the deal: Evil Twins pretend to be your trusted Wi-Fi buddies but have a dark agenda. They could snatch your passwords or spy on your digital adventures. Nobody wants their personal space invaded, right?

There you have it – Wi-Fi in a nutshell, with a side of caution against those mischievous Evil Twin Attacks.

Common Security Protocols in Wireless Network

Now that we've got the basics down, let's talk about the guardians of your Wi-Fi kingdom – the security protocols. Imagine them as the bouncers at the entrance of your digital party, making sure only the invited guests get in. No party crashers allowed, especially not those sneaky Evil Twin Attacks.

1. WPA, WPA2, WPA3 - The Alphabet Soup of Security:

Imagine your Wi-Fi network as an exclusive club, and WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access) is like the secret handshake that gets you through the velvet ropes. It's the gatekeeper, ensuring that only the devices armed with the correct "handshake" (a.k.a. password) get an all-access pass to the digital party. Just like your trusty secret handshake with besties, WPA creates a special connection that keeps out the uninvited digital riff-raff.

Now, let's talk upgrades. WPA2 and WPA3 are like the bouncers with upgraded gear, making sure your digital bash stays top-notch. WPA2 tightened the security screws a bit more, offering a stronger, more sophisticated handshake. It's like upgrading from a basic secret handshake to one with a few extra twists – just to keep things interesting.

And then there's WPA3, the VIP treatment of Wi-Fi security. Think of it as the super-fancy, state-of-the-art secret handshake that adds an extra layer of protection to your Wi-Fi fortress. It's the fort knox of digital handshakes, ensuring that only the most trusted devices get past the entrance.

2. Say Hello to WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy):

Let's take a stroll down Wi-Fi memory lane and meet WEP – the grandparent of wireless security protocols. Like that old family heirloom, WEP has been around for quite some time, witnessing the evolution of the digital landscape. It's like the wise elder of the security family, imparting its knowledge even as newer, shinier members join the party.

Imagine WEP as that vintage lock on your door, faithfully standing guard. Back in the day, it was the go-to choice for securing Wi-Fi connections. It introduced the concept of encryption to make wireless communication more secure, aiming to provide a level of privacy equivalent to wired networks. However, as the digital realm advanced, so did the tactics of those looking to bypass security measures.

Comparing WEP to an old lock on your door is fitting. Sure, it might deter some casual intruders, but the clever ones armed with the right tools can find their way in. Over time, vulnerabilities in WEP became more apparent, exposing it to exploits that rendered it less effective against modern cyber threats. It's like relying on a charming, but slightly outdated, guardian for your digital fortress.

As technology sprinted ahead, more robust security protocols like WPA and WPA2 emerged, offering enhanced protection against evolving threats. While WEP may have gracefully aged into nostalgia, it serves as a reminder of the ever-changing landscape of Wi-Fi security.

3. What's in a Name? SSID and Hidden Networks:

Alright, fellow digital explorers, let's talk about SSID – the not-so-secret, yet intriguing name your Wi-Fi network goes by. Think of SSID as the name tag at a tech party – it’s how your devices recognize and connect to your Wi-Fi shindig. Simple, right?

But wait, there's a twist! Some networks play the mystery card and decide to go incognito by hiding their SSID. It's like hosting a clandestine gathering where only the chosen ones with the secret password (or hidden SSID, in this case) get an exclusive pass.

Imagine strolling down a digital alley, and suddenly you spot a hidden door – that's the allure of a network with a concealed SSID. You won't see it listed among the available Wi-Fi options; you need the inside scoop to get in.

Now, does hiding the SSID make your network Fort Knox? Well, not exactly. It's like putting a velvet rope at the entrance of your party – it adds an air of exclusivity. Determined gatecrashers might not be deterred, but it's an extra layer of mystery that could keep the casual wanderers at bay.

Picture it as throwing a speakeasy-style digital gathering. You need to know the secret handshake (or hidden SSID) to access the festivities. It won't stop the tech-savvy party crashers, but it adds a touch of intrigue to your Wi-Fi world.

So, there you have it – SSID, your Wi-Fi network's digital name, and the optional cloak-and-dagger move of hiding it. It's like hosting a party with a bit of mystery, but remember, a strong Wi-Fi password is still your best bouncer against the uninvited digital guests.

4. MAC Address Filtering – Your VIP Guest List:

Alright, let's dive a bit deeper into the world of MAC Address Filtering. Think of it as creating an exclusive VIP guest list for your Wi-Fi party. Each device that wants to join has a special identification card known as a MAC address – a unique set of numbers and letters that makes it stand out in the crowd.

Now, here's the cool part: With MAC Address Filtering, you, the host, get to decide who's on the VIP list and who gets the golden ticket to connect. It's like being the bouncer at the trendiest club in town, allowing only the cool and approved guests to enter.

But (and there's always a "but"), let's talk real talk – it's not foolproof. See, just like a master forger can create a fake ID, tech-savvy intruders can spoof or mimic MAC addresses. So, while MAC Address Filtering adds an extra layer of security, it's not the superhero cape that makes you invincible.

Think of it this way: your VIP list is a fantastic tool, but it's not the only one in your security toolkit. Combining it with other safeguards, like strong passwords and updated security protocols, is like having a squad of superheroes guarding your Wi-Fi fortress.

Remember, these security protocols are your digital bouncers, but even they need backup. In the next chat, we'll tackle the sneaky world of Evil Twin Attacks and how to outsmart them.

Authentication and Encryption

Now that we're on this Wi-Fi adventure, it's time to unveil the superheroes of security – Authentication and Encryption. Imagine them as the dynamic duo guarding the entrance to your Wi-Fi fortress, keeping Evil Twin Attacks at bay.

Authentication

Imagine your device as a guest knocking on the virtual door of your Wi-Fi world, ready to join the online party. Now, think of authentication as the digital bouncer checking the guest list. When your device arrives, it's not just tapping on the door – it's proving it's legit, like your tech-savvy friend assuring everyone, "Hey, it's really me."

In this cyber gathering, authentication is the gatekeeper making sure only the invited gadgets get a ticket to the virtual shindig. It's like having a secret code that separates the cool kids from the potential party crashers. This process adds a layer of security by ensuring that only recognized devices can access your Wi-Fi.

So, just as your friend might share a secret joke or a unique handshake to confirm their identity, your device shares a set of credentials with the Wi-Fi, saying, "I belong here." It's a simple yet effective way to filter out impostors and keep the online atmosphere free from unwanted digital gatecrashers.

Encryption

Now, let's delve into the virtual fortress of your Wi-Fi security – encryption, the digital guardian of your data. Think of it as the high-tech lock and key system that transforms your messages into a secret code, ensuring only your Wi-Fi network holds the magical decoder.

When your device sends or receives data, encryption acts like an ingenious translator, turning your digital information into an unreadable secret code. It's as if you're sending a message in a bottle across the vast internet sea, but here’s the catch – only your Wi-Fi is equipped with the special glasses to decipher it.

In this digital ballet, encryption becomes the shield against prying eyes and potential eavesdroppers, especially those crafty troublemakers like Evil Twin Attacks. Even if they manage to sneak a peek, all they'll see is a jumble of digital gibberish – a code so complex that unraveling it without the right key is like solving a Rubik's Cube blindfolded.

So, while your digital messages traverse the virtual realm, encryption wraps them in a cloak of secrecy, ensuring that only the intended recipient – your trusted Wi-Fi network—can unveil the meaning. It's your ticket to a secure online communication party, where the guests may come and go, but the messages remain safely locked away.

Why Authentication and Encryption Matter Against Evil Twin Attacks

Now, let's unfold the importance of having digital bodyguards, namely authentication and encryption, in your Wi-Fi realm. Imagine your Wi-Fi network as an exclusive VIP party, and only those on the guest list (authenticated devices) possess the golden ticket – the secret code or encryption key – to step inside. Here's why you should care: these two superhero security measures are your go-to defenders against the notorious troublemakers, the Evil Twin Attacks.

In this cyber soirée, authentication stands as the virtual bouncer, diligently checking the guest list to ensure that only recognized devices make their way into the party. It's like having a VIP pass that separates the trusted attendees from the potential digital gatecrashers. Without authentication, it would be an open-door policy, inviting all sorts of uninvited guests to the party – a perfect scenario for Evil Twin Attacks to slip in unnoticed.

Now, let's talk encryption. It's the digital cloak that transforms your messages into an unreadable secret code, ensuring that even if someone manages to eavesdrop, all they'll encounter is a maze of indecipherable gibberish. The encryption key is the magic wand that grants access to this hidden language, and only authenticated devices possess this enchanted tool.

So, picture Evil Twin Attacks as the wannabe party crashers desperately knocking on the VIP door, lacking both the secret handshake (authentication) and the magic words (encryption key). They remain stranded outside, unable to infiltrate the exclusive digital gathering.

What is an evil twin attack?

Evil Twin Attack is like a sneaky imposter in the Wi-Fi world. It happens when a crafty attacker sets up a fake Wi-Fi spot, crossing their fingers that unsuspecting users will tap into it, thinking it's the real deal.

Now, here's where it gets tricky: when you innocently connect to this imposter Wi-Fi, all the stuff you share with the network takes an unexpected detour. Instead of going to the usual internet hangout, it swings by a server controlled by the sly attacker. Sneaky, right?

Now, get this: creating an Evil Twin isn't rocket science. With just a smartphone or some regular internet-capable gadget and a dash of software magic, the bad actors can pull off this digital disguise. Public Wi-Fi spots, where everyone's connecting left and right, are their favorite playgrounds. Especially the unsecured ones – they're like a goldmine for these Evil Twin Attacks, leaving your personal data doing a vulnerable dance.

How Evil Twin Attacks Work 

Okay, buckle up, because we're about to dive into the shady side of Wi-Fi with Evil Twin Attacks. Imagine Evil Twin Attacks as the tricksters of the cyber neighborhood, pulling off digital pranks that can seriously ruin your online vibes.

So, how do these troublemakers work their mischief? Picture this: You stroll into your favorite digital hangout, let's call it "CoolCaféWiFi." You've connected a zillion times before without a hitch. But, unbeknownst to you, there's a digital doppelganger lurking – the Evil Twin. This sneaky imposter sets up shop nearby, masquerading as "CoolCaféWiFiEvilTwin."

Now, here's the trap. Your device, innocently seeking a connection, spots the Evil Twin and thinks, "Hey, it's the CoolCaféWiFi I know and love!" Little does it know, it's about to be bamboozled. When you connect to the imposter, the Evil Twin has you in its clutches.

Once you're hooked, the Evil Twin can play all sorts of nasty tricks. It might snoop on your online adventures, nab your passwords, or unleash other digital mayhem. It's like inviting a wolf in sheep's clothing to your digital party – things are about to get messy.

Here’s how an evil twin Wi-Fi attack works:

1. ​​A hacker chooses a location with a free Wi-Fi network and sets up a Wi-Fi access point.
2. The hacker creates a fake captive portal to capture user data.
3. The hacker tricks victims into connecting to the evil twin Wi-Fi point by, say, positioning themselves closer to their victims to boost signal strength.
4. A victim unknowingly logs onto the fake access point.
5. The hacker can now monitor their behavior and steal whatever data the victim accesses on the fake network.

Hackers often initiate cybersecurity attacks through vulnerabilities in public Wi-Fi networks. That’s why it’s important to learn how to stay safe on public Wi-Fi. Understanding the differences between WEP, WPA, and WPA2 network security protocols can help you make sure that the networks you browse are safe.

Motivations Behind Evil Twin Attacks

Now, let's demystify the motives behind those mischievous digital troublemakers – Evil Twin Attacks. Imagine them as the online pranksters who just can't resist stirring up a little chaos in your Wi-Fi neighborhood.

So, why on earth do these digital imps exist? Well, think of it like this: Evil Twin Attacks are the high-tech pickpockets of the cyber world. They're not after your physical wallet, though – they're after your digital goodies. Whether it's your passwords, sensitive information, or just the thrill of causing chaos, these sneaky impostors have a few tricks up their digital sleeves.

Picture your Wi-Fi network as a treasure trove, and Evil Twin Attacks as the bandits trying to sneak in and grab the loot. They set up shop pretending to be the trustworthy Wi-Fi you know and love, luring unsuspecting devices into their web of deceit.

Now, it's not personal. It's just business for these cyber tricksters. They're out to exploit the trust we place in our Wi-Fi connections for their own gain. It's like an online game of hide-and-seek, and they're in it for the thrill of outsmarting the unsuspecting players.

So, why should you care about their motives? Well, understanding the game helps you play it better. The more you know about these digital pranksters, the better equipped you are to protect yourself and your digital turf.

Types of Evil Twin Attacks

Alright, let's dig into the various flavors of mischief these digital impostors, the Evil Twin Attacks, bring to the table. Think of them as a mischievous family, each with its own unique way of causing online mayhem.

Rogue Access Points

Alright, let's shine a spotlight on the mischievous maestros of deception in the world of Evil Twin Attacks – the Rogue Access Points. Think of them as the chameleons of the cyber jungle, adept at blending in and tricking your devices into connecting to them.

Picture this: You're strolling through the Wi-Fi neighborhood, looking for your trusty connection, let's call it "HomeSweetWiFi." But, unbeknownst to you, a Rogue Access Point has set up shop nearby, masquerading as "HomeSweetWiFiEvilTwin."

Now, here's the plot twist. Your device, innocently seeking a connection, spots the Evil Twin and thinks, "Ah, there's my familiar 'HomeSweetWiFi'!" Little does it know, it's stepping into the digital den of deception.

Once connected, the Rogue Access Point can pull off all sorts of digital pranks. It might eavesdrop on your online conversations, capture sensitive information, or even launch more sophisticated attacks. It's like inviting a wolf in sheep's clothing to your digital party – things are about to get tricky.

Ad-Hoc Networks

Now, let's shine a light on the solo performers in the world of Evil Twin Attacks – the Ad-Hoc Networks. Think of them as the lone wolves of the Wi-Fi wilderness, making unexpected appearances and creating direct connections with unsuspecting devices.

Here's the scene: You're in a digital crowd, seeking a connection, perhaps the familiar "CaféWiFi." But lurking in the shadows is an Ad-Hoc Network, a lone wolf with a name like "CaféWiFiAdHocTwin."

Picture this: your device, innocently searching for a Wi-Fi partner, encounters the Ad-Hoc Network. It's like being approached by a mysterious dance partner at the digital party, initiating a one-on-one connection without any official Wi-Fi hub overseeing the steps.

Why should you care about these lone wolves? Well, they might not have the same crowd-pleasing intentions as the official Wi-Fi hubs. Ad-Hoc Networks can be used for covert communication, potentially opening a backdoor for unauthorized access or data interception. It's like a secret rendezvous in the digital dancefloor.

Deceptive Hotspot Attacks

Let's shine a light on the temptations of the Wi-Fi world – Deceptive Hotspot Attacks. Picture them as the seductive sirens of the digital seas, luring unsuspecting devices with alluring names like "FreeWiFi" or "CoffeeShopGuest."

Here's the setup: You're in a public space, sipping your latte, and your device is on the lookout for a quick Wi-Fi fix. Enter the Deceptive Hotspot, broadcasting a signal with a name that's too good to resist.

Imagine connecting to "FreeCoffeeShopWiFiEvilTwin" thinking you've hit the jackpot of free internet. However, unbeknownst to you, you've just fallen into the trap.

Once connected, the Deceptive Hotspot has a backstage pass to your data. It can snoop on your online activities, capture sensitive information, or unleash other digital mischief while you innocently enjoy your latte.

So, why care about these tempting traps? Well, falling for a Deceptive Hotspot is like inviting a digital cat burglar to your favorite café hangout. Being aware of their tricks helps you make wiser choices in the Wi-Fi wilderness.

Tools and Techniques Used in Evil Twin Attacks

Let's uncover the digital toolkit and sneaky techniques that Evil Twin Attacks use to pull off their cyber pranks. Think of it as a backstage pass to the mischief-makers' lair, where they craftily exploit vulnerabilities in the Wi-Fi world.

Wi-Fi Sniffing and Eavesdropping:

Picture Evil Twin Attacks as the Sherlock Holmes of the digital world, equipped with Wi-Fi sniffing tools to conduct some serious eavesdropping. It's like having cyber detectives quietly lurking in the shadows, overhearing the conversations between your device and the unsuspecting, legitimate Wi-Fi network.

Now, let's break it down. When you're blissfully connected to what you believe is your trusted Wi-Fi buddy, Evil Twin Attacks are silently gathering intel. They're not after your morning small talk or weekend plans – they're after the gold mines of the digital realm: your usernames, passwords, and other sensitive information.

It's a bit like having a secret meeting in a crowded café, and unbeknownst to you, someone in the corner is jotting down every word. The cyber detectives discreetly listen in, gaining valuable insights into your digital secrets without raising a single eyebrow.

Spoofing and Cloning Techniques:

Enter the world of the digital impersonation game, where Evil Twin Attacks master the art of spoofing and cloning techniques. It's like a cyber disguise party where these sneaky actors create a replica of a legitimate Wi-Fi network, donning the virtual masks of trusted connections. Your unsuspecting device, thinking it's connecting to an old friend, unwittingly dances into the arms of the imposter, unknowingly opening the door to potential data theft.

Now, let's unravel the plot. Picture yourself in a crowded digital room, searching for your usual Wi-Fi hangout. Little do you know, there's an imposter in the mix – the Evil Twin Attack. It masquerades as your familiar Wi-Fi connection, let's call it "HomeSweetWiFiClone," tricking your device into a false sense of security.

The danger lies in this seemingly harmless connection. Once your device falls for the deception and links up with the imposter, it's like handing over the keys to your digital kingdom. The Evil Twin gains access to your data, potentially leading to the theft of sensitive information.

Credential Harvesting:

Imagine Evil Twin Attacks as the pickpockets of the digital realm, skilled in the craft of credential harvesting. It's like navigating a crowded cyber street where these digital thieves employ techniques to snatch your login credentials – usernames and passwords – right from your virtual pockets. Once they've successfully swiped this valuable information, it's akin to having the keys to your digital kingdom, granting them access to sensitive accounts and potential mayhem.

Now, let's paint the picture. You're casually strolling through the online marketplace, accessing your favorite websites and services, completely unaware that an Evil Twin Attack is lurking in the virtual crowd. This cyber pickpocket doesn't need nimble fingers; it relies on clever techniques to intercept the data you use to access your digital domains.

Why should you be concerned about this digital pickpocketing act? Well, your login credentials are the gatekeepers to your online world. Once in the wrong hands, they provide unrestricted access to your personal and sensitive information, paving the way for identity theft, unauthorized access, and digital chaos.

Evil twin attack example

Let's dive into a real-world scenario at the cozy local coffee shop, where an unsuspecting visitor falls prey to the cunning tactics of an Evil Twin Attack. Our protagonist, enjoying a cup of coffee, decides to connect to the public Wi-Fi network, a routine they've followed countless times without issue.

Little do they know, this particular day marks the setting for a cyber ambush. A savvy hacker has orchestrated an Evil Twin network, mimicking the coffee shop's legitimate network with an identical SSID name. Seated in close proximity to the unsuspecting target, the hacker's fake network boasts a stronger signal than the genuine one, enticing our coffee sipper to unwittingly connect, even though the network is labeled as 'Unsecure.'

Once lured into the digital trap, our unsuspecting target proceeds to log into their bank account, intending to transfer some money to a friend. Here's where the danger unfolds – the absence of a VPN (Virtual Private Network) becomes the chink in their digital armor. The Evil Twin network, devoid of encryption, grants hackers unfettered access to the victim's banking information.

Days later, the realization hits hard. Unauthorized transactions have taken place in the victim's bank account, resulting in financial losses. The local coffee shop, once a haven for quiet moments and digital convenience, becomes the backdrop for a digital heist facilitated by the unsuspected Evil Twin Attack.

How to detect an evil twin attack

Detecting an Evil Twin Attack requires a combination of vigilance and the right tools. Here are some strategies to help you spot the digital impostors:

Check for Duplicate Networks: Pay attention to the list of available Wi-Fi networks. If you see two networks with the same or very similar names (SSID), it could be a sign of an Evil Twin Attack. Legitimate networks usually have unique names.

Verify Signal Strength: Compare the signal strength of the networks. An Evil Twin network often has a stronger signal than the legitimate one because the attacker is in close proximity. If a network is unusually strong, proceed with caution.

Inspect Network Security: Legitimate public networks often have some form of security, even if it's just a simple login page. If you connect to a network labeled as 'Unsecure' when you expect it to be secured, it might be an Evil Twin.

Use a VPN (Virtual Private Network): Employing a VPN encrypts your internet connection, making it more challenging for attackers to intercept your data, even if you accidentally connect to an Evil Twin network.

Monitor for Unexpected Behavior: Keep an eye on your device's behavior. If you experience sudden drops in internet speed, frequent disconnections, or unexpected requests for login credentials, it could indicate a potential attack.

Check Router Settings: If you're in a location where you often connect to the same Wi-Fi network, take a moment to check the router settings or ask the network administrator. Any sudden changes might be a cause for concern.

Educate Yourself and Stay Informed: Awareness is a powerful defense. Stay informed about the latest cybersecurity threats, including Evil Twin Attacks. Knowing what to look for significantly enhances your ability to detect and avoid potential threats.

Use Network Security Tools: Employ network security tools or apps that can scan for duplicate or suspicious networks. Some cybersecurity applications are designed to identify and alert you to potential threats.

How to prevent an evil twin Wi-Fi attack

Prevention is much more effective against this type of attack than just detection. Here are a couple of steps that can help:

• Use a VPN: VPNs were made to prevent hackers (and anyone) from monitoring your online activity. It’s a good tool to use to stay private and secure, even if you do connect to an evil twin Wi-Fi.
• Only browse HTTPS sites: Most browsers offer this by default, as HTTPS connections are encrypted to prevent onlookers from seeing your activity. If your browser notes that a site you’ve visited doesn’t have an HTTPS connection, navigate away from it as soon as possible.

One easy way to ensure you’re browsing on HTTPS sites is to install the HTTPS Everywhere browser extension found here. Nearly all browsers support it, and it’s a very effective way to ensure you’re browsing securely.

• Disable auto-connect: Devices with auto-connect often do so via a Wi-Fi’s SSID, meaning it can’t differentiate between legitimate Wi-Fi networks and evil twin ones.
• Stay away from public Wi-Fi: If possible, use a personal hotspot or one you’re sure isn’t compromised.
• Limit your online activities: If you can’t be sure you’re not connected to a compromised Wi-Fi connection, avoid visiting sites or taking actions that, if seen, can further compromise you. Don’t log in to accounts and don’t visit sites that contain any sensitive information.

Organizations can also employ or encourage the use of wireless intrusion prevention systems (WIPS), which are designed to keep hackers from monitoring activities over wireless connections.