Hackers hit Perth wireless internet

[InfoSec News <alerts () infosecnews org>]

http://www.thewest.com.au/default.aspx?MenuID=77&ContentID=142999

By RONAN O’CONNELL
thewest.com.au
21st May 2009

Thousands of people with poor wireless internet security are vulnerable 
to criminals who can hack into their computers, download illegal 
material using their internet account and access personal banking 
details, police warn.
  
Det-Sen. Const. Jamie McDonald, of the computer crime squad, said 
wireless internet users were being targeted by a crime called “war 
driving”, in which criminals drive around suburbs until their laptops 
pick up a wireless network signal. He said many people who signed up for 
wireless internet accounts did not activate the security programs 
provided and default safety software could often be bypassed by savvy 
criminals in minutes.
  
This made it easy for hackers to access the wireless network and 
download vast amounts of material, including child pornography.
  
The account holder was left with a potentially big bill for the hacker’s 
activities and could also be caught up in police investigations if 
illicit information was downloaded. Hackers can use personal details to 
get information, including banking passwords.

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