Sharking
Sharking Definition
Sharking refers to a social engineering tactic used by cybercriminals to exploit public Wi-Fi networks and steal users' sensitive information. By setting up unsecured or fake Wi-Fi networks in public places like cafes, airports, or hotels, the attackers lure unsuspecting users into connecting to these networks, thinking they are legitimate. Once connected, the cybercriminals employ specialized software to intercept and collect the data transmitted over these networks, including usernames, passwords, and financial information.
How Sharking Works
Sharking works by exploiting the vulnerabilities in public Wi-Fi networks and taking advantage of users' trust in these networks. The steps involved in sharking are as follows:
Setting up unsecured or fake Wi-Fi networks: Cybercriminals create networks that resemble legitimate Wi-Fi networks found in public places. These networks often have names similar to those provided by cafes, hotels, or airports, making it difficult for users to distinguish between the genuine and fake ones.
Attracting unsuspecting users: To trick users into connecting to their malicious networks, the attackers often employ tactics to make their networks appear more appealing. This could include using network names like "Free Public Wi-Fi" or offering faster internet speeds than other nearby networks.
Intercepting and collecting data: Once users connect to the fake networks, the attackers can use specialized software to intercept and collect the data transmitted over these networks. This can include sensitive information such as login credentials, personal data, banking details, and more.
Prevention Tips
To protect yourself from falling victim to sharking attacks, consider the following prevention tips:
Avoid connecting to public Wi-Fi networks without proper encryption or authentication. Before connecting to a public Wi-Fi network, check with the establishment to verify the network's name and password.
Use a virtual private network (VPN) when accessing the internet on public Wi-Fi. A VPN creates a secure, encrypted connection between your device and the internet, protecting your data from interception and unauthorized access.
Be cautious of the networks you connect to and always verify their legitimacy. Stick to trusted and secure networks, and avoid connecting to any networks that appear suspicious or have generic names.
Regularly monitor your bank and credit card statements for any unauthorized transactions. If you notice any suspicious activity, report it to your bank or credit card provider immediately.
Additional Considerations
While the above prevention tips can help protect you from sharking attacks, it is important to remain vigilant and informed about the latest threats and vulnerabilities. Cybercriminals are constantly evolving their tactics, so staying updated on best practices for online security is crucial.
Furthermore, it is worth noting that sharking is just one of many tactics used by cybercriminals to exploit public Wi-Fi networks. It is important to familiarize yourself with other common threats such as man-in-the-middle (MitM) attacks and data encryption to have a comprehensive understanding of the risks involved.
Related Terms
Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) Attack: A form of cyberattack where the attacker secretly intercepts and relays communication between two parties.
Data Encryption: The process of encoding data to protect it from unauthorized access.
VPN (Virtual Private Network): A technology that creates a secure, encrypted connection over a less secure network, such as the public internet.
Links to Related Terms