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Opposite Ends of the Network Security Spectrum

Friday, January 5th, 2007  |  Tom Carmony

New York Times technology writer David Pogue runs down some of the potential risks (from a privacy/security standpoint) of using public wi-fi networks. This is certainly not new to anyone well-versed in network security, but for the average user, it’s a bit of a wake-up call to just how easily (and to what extent) any of our information can be gleaned from our computers on our next visit to the corner coffee shop.

Using software easily downloaded online, Pogue and Co. were able to demonstrate the ease with which information about your wi-fi could be tracked, including:

  • Copies of e-mail sent and received;
  • Lists of websites visited;
  • Even graphics and other files that appeared on websites you’ve visited.

One the other end of the spectrum, for those exceedingly concerned with network security, the NSA has posted a free PDF guide on beefing up your own home or office network’s security (via Treelimb).

 
 

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