In a recent analysis of nearly 25,000 free Wi-Fi hotspots in Paris, Kaspersky experts have uncovered alarming security weaknesses as the city prepares to host the 2024 Summer Olympics and Paralympic Games. The findings, released by Kaspersky’s Global Research and Analysis Team (GReAT), indicate that almost 25% of these networks have weak or no encryption, posing significant risks to users’ personal and banking data.
As the first in-person summer Games since the lifting of pandemic restrictions, the Paris Olympics are anticipated to attract a substantial influx of tourists. Given the expected high usage of public Wi-Fi at popular locations and Olympic venues, the security of these networks is of paramount concern.
Kaspersky’s researchers conducted a comprehensive study, analyzing 47,891 signal records and identifying 24,766 unique Wi-Fi access points. Their findings are cause for concern: a quarter of these networks have serious security vulnerabilities, such as weak or nonexistent encryption, which leaves them susceptible to interception, decryption, or cracking attacks.
Moreover, the analysis revealed that nearly one in five (20%) of the networks were configured with WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup), an outdated and easily compromised algorithm. Networks using WPS are highly vulnerable to attacks that can lead to significant data breaches. In stark contrast, only six percent of the Wi-Fi networks surveyed employed the latest WPA3 security protocol, which offers enhanced protection.
As cyber threats loom over the upcoming international event, Kaspersky recommends that visitors to Paris take proactive measures to safeguard their data. One such measure is the use of a Virtual Private Network (VPN), like Kaspersky VPN Secure Connection. A VPN encrypts the internet connection, creating a secure tunnel between the user’s device and the internet. This encryption prevents cybercriminals from intercepting data, even on unsecured networks, by masking the IP address and encrypting all transmitted information.
By utilizing a VPN, tourists and attendees can ensure that their personal and financial data remain protected while accessing public Wi-Fi networks. This added layer of security is crucial, given the widespread vulnerabilities identified in the study.
To stay safe while using public Wi-Fi, Kaspersky experts also recommend following these tips:
- Avoid Sensitive Transactions: Refrain from accessing banking or other sensitive accounts while on public Wi-Fi.
- Verify the Network: Ensure the network is legitimate by confirming with the establishment offering it.
- Enable Firewall: Make sure your device’s firewall is active to block unauthorized access.
Use Strong Passwords: Always use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication for extra security. - Keep Software Update: Regularly update your operating system, apps, and antivirus software to protect against the latest threats.
- Disable File Sharing: Turn off file sharing and AirDrop on your device to prevent unauthorized access.
