The Role of Secure Wireless Networks in Protecting Student Data

Wireless networks have long been popular and are not losing their positions, as they offer a convenient way to connect to the Internet without using cables. However, wireless networks are also more vulnerable in terms of security compared to wired ones, as they can be accessed by anyone within the network's range.

Today, we will talk about the role of secure wireless networks in protecting students' data because they often use the Internet and wireless networks particularly for studying and leisure. Protecting a student's data is important in any case, regardless of whether they communicate with friends on the Internet, visit entertainment sites, or decide to order a paper from a custom dissertation writing service. Any of these actions should be protected, and we will tell you what exactly can contribute to this.

Why are public Wi-Fi networks unsafe?

The main problem with public Wi-Fi networks is that they are available to anyone. This means that any person can connect to them, including hackers who will try to intercept your traffic and gain access to confidential information.

In addition, many public networks use outdated security protocols or do not require a password to connect at all. This means that the transmitted data is not protected in any way and can be easily intercepted and decrypted.

Another danger lies in the so-called "evil twins"—fake access points that disguise themselves as legitimate networks. By connecting to such a network, students risk giving their data directly to intruders.

Attacks on Wi-Fi users

There are several types of attacks that Wi-Fi users may be subject to:

1. Traffic interception. Hackers can intercept and analyze all traffic passing through the access point. If the transmitted data is not encrypted, attackers will gain access to students' correspondence, logins, passwords, and other confidential information.
2. Man-in-the-middle attacks. This type of attack assumes that a hacker is between you and the server you are accessing. They intercept your requests, can modify them, and send them on your behalf. Thus, an attacker can gain access to your accounts (including bank accounts), email, etc.
3. Malware injection. By connecting to an infected access point, you risk getting viruses, Trojans, and other types of malware on your device. They can steal your data, spy on you through your camera and microphone, use your device to send spam, etc.
4. Phishing. Attackers can redirect your requests to fake sites that disguise themselves as legitimate resources (online banking, social networks, email services). By entering your login and password on such a site, you hand them over directly to hackers.
5. Wi-Phishing. This is a new type of phishing, specially designed for public Wi-Fi networks. Hackers create a fake access point with a name similar to a legitimate network (for example, "Free_Airport_WiFi"). After connecting to it, the students get to a phishing authorization page, where intruders trick them into giving logins, passwords, and other confidential data.

How to protect your data on Wi-Fi networks

Luckily, students can use several effective ways to protect their data when using Wi-Fi:

• Use a VPN. A virtual private network (VPN) encrypts student traffic and protects it from interception. Choose trusted providers and always turn on the VPN before connecting to a public network, whether you need to study, communicate with your friends, or get help from different services like writing websites. By the way, you can read more about the best writing services in the LinkedIn article.
• Give preference to sites with HTTPS. An encrypted HTTPS connection protects transmitted data from interception. Make sure that the site you are visiting uses this protocol (the address bar should contain "https://" and a lock icon).
• Do not transmit confidential information. Try not to enter passwords, credit card numbers, and other important data when connecting to a network. If possible, postpone such operations until you are on a secure network.
• Use two-factor authentication. Even if hackers get your password, they will not be able to log into your account without the second factor (for example, a code from an SMS).
• Check the legitimacy of networks. Before connecting to a network, make sure that it is indeed the official network of the establishment and not a fake access point. It is better to clarify the network name and password with the staff.
• Configure your device. Disable the automatic connection to Wi-Fi networks so that your device does not connect to unknown access points without your knowledge. It is also worth disabling file and printer sharing and turning on the firewall.
• Use mobile Internet. If possible, it is better to connect to the Internet via a cellular network than via public Wi-Fi. Mobile networks are better protected and less vulnerable to attacks.
• Install an antivirus. A good antivirus with a web protection function will help detect and block phishing attempts and malware injections.

The role of ISPs in ensuring Wi-Fi security

Wi-Fi providers also play an important role in ensuring the security of their users.

Here's what they can and should do:

• Use modern security protocols. Networks should be protected by the WPA2 or WPA3 protocol with a strong password. The outdated WEP and WPA protocols have not provided the required level of protection for a long time.
• Encrypt traffic. Providers should use proven encryption algorithms (for example, AES) to protect transmitted data from interception.
• Segment networks. Dividing the network into several virtual segments (VLANs) helps limit the spread of potential threats and simplify security management.
• Update software regularly. Timely firmware updates for access points and other network devices help eliminate detected vulnerabilities and keep the security system up to date.
• Monitor the network for threats. Using intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDS/IPS) allows you to promptly identify and block potential attacks.
• Inform users. Providers should place information materials (posters, leaflets) within the network coverage area with advice on the safe use of public Wi-Fi.

Conclusion

To protect their data, students should adhere to several digital hygiene rules: use a VPN, prefer sites with HTTPS, do not transmit confidential information via Wi-Fi, check the legitimacy of networks, etc. Providers also play an important role in ensuring security; they must use modern security protocols, encrypt traffic, monitor the network for threats, and inform users.