SOHO Wi-Fi Routers: Security Vulnerabilities

Although most IT Professionals know a Small Office Home Office (SOHO) WIFI router is often a weak link in most networks - what shall the consumer do? The article "Wi-Fi routers: More security risks than ever" highlights some of the exploits and vulnerabilities on a few popular routers.

Protect Yourself

How can you protect yourself? Here are a couple of things:

• Keep your router patched
• Keep your device patched
• Disable SSID broadcasting
• Use strong passwords and encryption
• Disable guest networks
• Use software firewalls on your devices
• Keep antivirus and personal protection software up-to-date
• Be wary of "free" apps, websites OU are not familiar with, and email attachments

Public Places

As the C|NET article explains - public places can be very vulnerable and can pose a huge risk if sensitive information is transmitted over insecure networks, WiFi, or hotspots.

• Use VPN software, such as IPVanish, HideMyAss!,
• Use your own secure hotspot
• Connect to secure sites with HTTPS
• Be wary of info-sharing apps: only turn on when you need them, then turn off

Passwords / Sensitive Information

• Don't store passwords in notes, contacts, or docs
• Use a password-protected app such as KeePass.info