Companies Need To Be More Proactive Regarding Cybersecurity & Protecting From Hacking Attempts
In our interconnected world, wireless technology has become an integral part of our daily lives. From homes to businesses, WiFi networks provide us with convenient access to the internet. However, it is crucial to be aware that wireless technology, including WiFi, is not impervious to hacking attempts. In this article, we will explore the vulnerabilities of wireless networks and provide insights on how to protect yourself against potential security breaches.
There have been a number of energy infrastructure hacking attacks around the world – a demonstration of just how easy it can be to cripple a region that’s totally dependent on technology.
Depending on what the hackers want to do, these kinds of attacks can affect a local community or an entire country. The problem stems from the lack of worthwhile security planning and the dependence of unsecured technologies such as Wi-Fi wireless. It’s enabled hackers to garner access to the LAN data streams and access control of the connected facilities.
Solar Panel Farms face this type of threat. It uses the Wi-Fi/Wireless technology to control solar panel arrays from a distance. The issue is that the majority of solar PV panels are controlled serially and need to have a LAN converter with arrays of more than 328 feet. For that reason, they’re connected via a Wi-Fi Wireless LAN connection.
Most folks know, there’s no type of wireless security no matter what kind of encryption is used. Anything that goes into the air can be deceived, interpreted or cracked. This opens up doors to hacking and allows access to any devices connected. This includes the PV panels and any attached computer system.
In order to address this, PoE Extenders or hardline Ethernet Extenders can be used and connect right to a LAN port on access control along with other LAN devices that used to have Wi-Fi technology on it.
Ethernet Extenders are a much more viable and economic solution, using the same feed as the panels they protect.
Chinese Military Personnel Caught Hacking Into SolarWorld Americas Computers
In September 2014, the largest U.S. solar panels manufacturer SolarWorld Americas requested the Commerce Department to look into claims that Chinese military personnel had broken into their computers and gained information related to its business and the on-going trade dispute it had with China.
According to SolarWorld, the incident happened because the company used the inexpensive, low-quality Chinese LAN equipment on their network that had been infected with spyware. (Yet another reason why you shouldn’t buy bargain priced networking equipment, especially if it comes from China).
If you’re on a LAN network, don’t take chances! Stay with a highly-reputable trusted brand that makes all their products in the U.S.
Safeguarding Your Wireless Network
- Keep Your Software Updated: Regularly update your router’s firmware and ensure that all connected devices have the latest software updates installed. Updates often include security patches that address known vulnerabilities.
- Strong Encryption: Use the latest encryption standards, such as WPA2 or WPA3, to secure your Wi-Fi network. Avoid using outdated and vulnerable encryption protocols like WEP.
- Secure Passwords: Create strong, unique passwords for your network and regularly change them. A strong password includes a combination of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.
- Network Segmentation: Consider setting up a guest network to isolate visitors’ devices from your main network, minimizing potential risks.
- Disable Remote Management: Unless necessary, disable remote management of your router to prevent unauthorized access from outside your network.
- Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Enable two-factor authentication on your router’s administration panel, adding an extra layer of security.
- Firewall Protection: Activate the built-in firewall on your router to block unauthorized incoming connections.
- Use Virtual Private Networks (VPNs): A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, ensuring secure communication even when using public Wi-Fi networks.
Anything put into the air can easily be interpreted, spoofed and cracked open allowing basic hackers direct access to anything connected – your PV panels and all computer systems attached.
To solve this challenge, secure hardline Ethernet Extenders and in some cases PoE Extenders are rapidly deployed and connected directly into the LAN ports on access control and other LAN devices where WiFi gear once allowed hackers in.
Ethernet Extenders also turn out to be a far more cost effective solution and can even run off the same power feed as the panels they are protecting.
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6 Additional Security Measures
- MAC Address Filtering: Enable MAC address filtering on your router to only allow specific devices to connect to your network. This adds an extra layer of security by preventing unauthorized devices from accessing your network.
- Disable SSID Broadcasting: By disabling the broadcasting of your Wi-Fi network’s SSID (Service Set Identifier), you make it harder for potential hackers to detect and target your network. However, note that this measure alone does not guarantee complete security.
- Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems (IDPS): Consider implementing an IDPS to monitor network traffic and detect any suspicious or unauthorized activity. This system can help identify and block potential hacking attempts in real-time.
- Regular Network Audits: Conduct periodic audits of your wireless network to identify any potential vulnerabilities. This can involve scanning for open ports, reviewing connected devices, and assessing security configurations.
- Educate Users: Educate all users of your network, including family members or employees, about the importance of strong passwords, responsible browsing habits, and recognizing phishing or social engineering attempts. Promote a culture of cybersecurity awareness.
- Professional Network Assessment: For larger or more complex networks, it may be beneficial to engage professional network security services to conduct a thorough assessment of your network’s security posture and provide customized recommendations.
Final Thoughts and Conclusion
Wireless and Wi-Fi technology, while incredibly convenient, are not immune to hacking attempts. By understanding the vulnerabilities, common hacking techniques, and implementing appropriate security measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to wireless network breaches. Stay vigilant, keep your software up to date, use strong encryption, and follow the best practices outlined in this article to safeguard your wireless connection. By prioritizing network security, you can enjoy the benefits of wireless technology while minimizing the potential risks associated with it.
Remember, the key to protecting your wireless network lies in proactive measures, ongoing education, and regular security assessments. Stay informed, stay secure.
