Interior Ministry warns of fake Wi-Fi networks to steal passwords

Public Wi-Fi networks can be used by attackers to steal users’ personal data. This was reported by the Office for the organization of the fight against the illegal use of information and communication technologies of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia in its official channel “Bulletin of the Cyber Police of Russia”.

“Open Wi-Fi networks can be fake. Attackers create "doubles" to intercept your logins, passwords and payment data, the report said.

The department recommended not to enter logins, passwords and bank card data when connecting to open Wi-Fi networks. Also, users were advised to avoid networks without a password or with suspicious names and to clarify the name of the access point from employees of a particular institution.

In addition, the interior Ministry warned about other ways of identity theft. So, found flash drives and external batteries can contain malware, and QR codes in public places – lead to phishing sites and fake payment pages.

Another threat is the so-called “shoulder surfing”: attackers can peep PINs and passwords over a user’s shoulder in public places. Fraudsters can also exploit Bluetooth vulnerabilities to access contacts, messages and other personal data.

Turn off Bluetooth when you don’t need it. Do not accept unknown connections and files. Remove unnecessary conjugated devices. Regularly update the system, — urged in the Department.

In August, the Interior Ministry warned about the dangers of using open Wi-Fi networks. The department noted that through them, attackers can distribute malicious programs and access personal and payment data, logins, passwords and user files.