With each passing day, the world around is becoming more and more digitalized. From doing basic chores to performing complex tasks, we now do everything on applications powered by the internet. It is now an age of convenience and comfort. However, we still have not become globally wireless and require assistance from Wi-Fi devices which are placed within our homes, offices, restaurants, stores, and other different places to provide us with internet connectivity.
Wi-Fi networks are usually protected and encrypted with WPA-2, which provides security to most Wi-Fi networks. It provides unique encryption keys for each client that connects to the Wi-Fi device. Encryption in simpler words is a secret code that can only be deciphered through a digital key. This helps keep the intruders and hackers away from stealing your data.
Research has found that encryption can be broken into and hacked as well, which may lead hackers to steal your information. However, what the hackers do with your data is entirely up to their motive of stealing your data, but it will end up causing you harm. They can use your information for identity theft, for fraudulent activities, or worse for ransomware.
Ransomware is a malware that is introduced within your computer that freezes your data and assets and can only be released with the help of a pin or code. The hackers give you this pin or code in exchange for a ransom, which is usually monetary. If such an occurrence takes place, you need to contact cybersecurity services who will then solve this matter out for you. By using processes such as ransomware removal and ransomware recovery, they will help you recover your data and remove the malware. This process is costly, time-taking, and can cost your reputation as a firm.
What Can You Do?
In such a situation where an attack has compromised your Wi-Fi, you need to instantly update your Wi-Fi enabled devices as soon as you see that a software update is available. Wi-Fi enabled devices are your phones, laptops, tablets, and other smart appliances. By doing so, it will protect you from hackers accessing your data and stealing it. But, when you update the software, it will limit such attacks and protect you against ransomware or similar attacks.
Changing your Wi-Fi password
In such a compromised situation, most people will think of changing their password. However, there is no need to do so. This is because the vulnerability of the attack does not affect the password. Instead, it is in the encrypted network, which does not concern your password. Some cybersecurity services suggest that in such situations, you should download a VPN as that would secure your data and all your transactions, and would shelter your data from hackers. Also, if that is not possible, then use websites with SSL certificates as that is the next means of a secure transaction.