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Experts have warned wireless internet users that they could be at risk from ‘evil twins’ – bogus internet connections set up by fraudsters, reported Times Online.
Users who appear to be connecting to the internet through a wireless network may inadvertently reveal personal details such as bank passwords and credit card numbers to the criminals setting up the erroneous network.
The main problem stems from the fact that firewalls and other internet security precautions offer little protection as the user has effectivly voluntarily logged on to the criminal’s network.
“Users need to be wary of not using their wi-fi enabled laptops or other portable devices in order to conduct financial transactions or anything that is of a sensitive personal nature,” said Professor Brian Collins from Cranfield University, a former chief scientist at GCHQ, the Government’s electronic eavesdropping station.
