Data Security, Encryption, Network Security

World Cup travelers: beware of unencrypted Brazilian Wi-Fi nets

Share

The last thing World Cup travelers are probably thinking about is secure internet access in the tournament's host city, São Paulo, Brazil. But they should be.

New Kaspersky Lab research suggests that up to 26 percent of São Paulo's Wi-Fi networks are unencrypted. Plus, a majority of the networks offer free access, which could lure in unsuspecting tourists in search of an internet connection.

Kaspersky's researchers gathered information on the Wi-Fi networks by logging more than 60 miles driving around the city and assessing 5,000 wireless access points in places such as parks, malls and airports.

To avoid data breaches, the researchers recommend that everyone connect through a VPN connection. However, if connecting to a potentially unsafe network is absolutely necessary, visitors should browse through Tor and use a DNS traffic encryption software on their devices.

World Cup travelers: beware of unencrypted Brazilian Wi-Fi nets

Kaspersky Lab experts who drove around Sao Paolo to assess the security of available Wi-Fi networks found that at least 26 percent have no encryption.

Get daily email updates

SC Media's daily must-read of the most current and pressing daily news

By clicking the Subscribe button below, you agree to SC Media Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.