Identity Theft through Wireless Networking

Do you have a wireless network in your home, office, or holiday location? If so, is it secured - or are you not 100% sure? The reason we put this question to you is that the answer has serious implications for your data security, and ultimately, the protection of your identity.

Recently, you would have heard that Google got in to trouble throughout the world for recording data it found being emitted from wireless networks whilst it was taking pictures of the streets and neighbourhoods during its mapping "Street View" setup.

But what if that data got in to the hands of a group less trustworthy? Indeed - you could find yourself in a troublesome spot.

Why Wireless Networking Must Be Secure?

The very nature of wireless networking means that data from the internet and from your computer are being sent through the airwaves to each other. In order for you to receive the information, it has to be broadcast out (in all directions) to ensure that if you move around with a laptop, you will still be able to access the information.

This results in a number of things:

• Data can be intercepted by anyone in close proximity.
• Wireless networks which aren't secured can be hacked in to by almost anyone.
• Personal information, such as credit card numbers and bank account details can be seen.

Of course, the moral of this article is not to scare you away from using wireless networking. The technology itself is incredible, and should be utilized by people who know what they are doing to better enhance their technological experience.

What we are saying however is that your wireless network must be secured. If it's not - you run the risk of revealing all of this information, to anyone who might be snooping in at any time.

How to Secure a Network to Prevent Identity Theft?

If you bought a wireless router which you are now using in your home or office, the chances are that the user guide which came with the device will instruct you on how to effectively secure your wireless network.

If not, take a look at the tutorials available online - right now - to get this task done. Remember, identity theft can happen to anyone at any time - so the faster your secure your wireless environment, the better.