How Viruses Can Get Into Your Computers Via Wifi

Viruses pose a serious threat to computer users across the globe. After infiltrating the machine, a virus can cause a myriad of different challenges, including loss of data and computer resources. In some cases, hackers even use viruses to commit identity theft. While traditionally these pesky problems have been transmitted through email and infected websites, Wi-Fi has become an increasingly popular tool for hackers looking to gain entry to an unsuspecting computer user’s machine. It is essential for computer users to understand this process, in order to keep their computers safe.

Using Secured Wi-Fi Routers

Wi-Fi is an open network that allows anyone with the proper credentials to connect and exchange files. When the technology was first implemented in homes and businesses across the nation, many consumers were unaware of the need to keep these networks secure. Although networks have become increasingly secure with time, many Wi-Fi networks remain unprotected. Others use WEP encryption, which is less effective than other security options.

Hackers will often attempt to guess the password of networks that have been secured via WEP encryption, using the factory default password or commonly used phrases. Unprotected Wi-Fi networks are even easier to infiltrate. Some studies have shown that viruses are more likely to spread quickly in areas where several computers are connected to the same network.* This makes it imperative for connected users to understand the risks associated with using a public or unsecured Wi-Fi connection.

Passing on a Virus

In addition to the hackers who actively patrol Wi-Fi networks looking for a way in, an infected computer user could unknowingly transmit an infection on to other computers using the network. This likelihood is greatly increased in public areas that have Wi-Fi access available for free. Restaurants, cafés, and libraries are among those that could potentially pose a danger to users in the vicinity.

Keeping Business Networks Protected

Wi-Fi networks have become an increasingly popular presence in the business world, with many companies using these wireless networks to keep their employees connected with one another. These networks also facilitate the transfer of information between multiple computer systems. Unfortunately, these business networks are prone to the same virus transmission that can occur on public networks. Should a computer become infected and the virus not recognized, the results could be catastrophic for the company’s IT infrastructure.

There are several ways to keep business computers and networks sheltered from the risks of virus transmission over Wi-Fi networks. Installing an effective [tp lang=”en” only=”y”]business security solution[/tp][tp not_in=”en”]business security solution[/tp] is one powerful way to limit the risk of a virus invading the computers connected to the network in question.

When viruses attack a computer system, erasing the damage they have inflicted can be quite tedious. In some instances, it may not be possible to fully recover any information or data lost in the attack. In order to keep such occurrences to a minimum, it is vitally essential to keep oneself protected when using a Wi-Fi connection to access the Internet. This will help reduce the chance of a virus derailing the computer and rendering it unable to be used.

Sources: http://www.zdnet.com/blog/soho-networking/the-easy-way-to-avoid-a-wi-fi-virus/111