Drone used to detect widespread security vulnerability WIFI The University of Waterloo (UOW) in Canada has developed indoor networks, raising concerns about similar devices being used for criminal activity.
In a university press release, mentioned (Opens in a new tab) About developments first published in a paper (Opens in a new tab) Written by Dr. Ali Abedi, Associate Professor of Computer Science at the University of Wollongong, and Deepak Vasisht, Associate Professor of Computer Science at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, “Localization of Non-Cooperative Wi-Fi Networks and Its Implications for Privacy.”
The device, known as Wi-Peep, is a modified consumer drone that sends messages to connected devices in flight, and can track their location “within a meter” by taking advantage of a known vulnerability known as “polite WiFi”. Ignoring the cost of a drone, the device is said to cost $20 in parts, making it as easy to assemble for criminals as thieves.
Polite WiFi fallout
Polite WiFi means smart devices will respond to connection requests even when they are The password The connection is protected and the connection is rejected. Wi-Peep can keep a close eye on devices by constantly sending contact messages to all devices in range.
In a statement, Abedi outlined the threat similar devices pose to security in the home and beyond.
“Using similar technology, one can track the movements of security guards within the bank by tracing the location of their phones or smartwatches,” he said.
“Similarly, a thief can locate and type smart devices in the home, including security cameras, laptops, and smart TVs, to find a good candidate for intrusion.”
“In addition, operating the device via a drone means that it can be used quickly and remotely without much chance of user detection.”
Wi-Peep has been compiled to test the theory that these types of attacks will be possible after the Polite Wi-Fi vulnerability is identified. In his statement, Abedi called for overhaul, “so that our machines do not respond to strangers.”
He also suggested that until then, Wi-Fi chip manufacturers could introduce random response times to reduce the accuracy of device location reporting by devices like Wi-Peep.
Before any fix is issued, businesses and homeowners should worry about the proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, and the growing accepted wisdom that any device, from cars to refrigerators, and barbecues, takes advantage of Internet connectivity.