Many times the term hacking is used in reference to obtaining information as a means of trespassing into the victim’s private accounts (i.e. bank account, credit card accounts, etc.). However, hacking can also be used to find information in other areas of interest. Hacking can often take place via wireless hacking, which is a particular technique of hacking. Wireless hacking, or wifi hacking, is committed when a hacker obtains the victim’s wireless network signal and is able to use it for his/her own personal use.
Available wireless hacking software enables the hacker to decode the victim's network connection and then the hacker will actually intercept the connection. Other programs may help locate the signal in order to commit wifi hacking and crack the password used in order to gain access onto the victim's network.
Wireless network "sniffing" is another form where a hacker using a program via wireless connection. It is a form of eavesdropping on a wireless network in order to copy codes in the victim’s wireless service network. The hacker may also use sniffing as a device to collect addresses in order to spoof (or fake) a wireless connection.
Even though most wifi hacking involves computers, that is not always the case. A passive scanner is also another type of wifi hacking program that involves a hacker gaining access to the victim's radio channels. The scanner is contained on a wireless card and allows the hacker to be able to listen in on each radio channel for a few messages.
Although some hackers are quite crafty when it comes to wireless hacking, there are ways to prevent becoming a victim of wireless hacking. One way is to obtain a secure wireless router. A good router will not allow unauthorized parties to access your wireless service network.
In choosing a router name and password, try using something more abstract and nothing too obvious that would help the intruder to gain access to your signal. You can also choose to hide your router name which will make it even harder for a hacker to identify your connection. Installing a WPA2 may also make it harder for hackers to decode your encryption code, making your network harder to attain and lessening the chance that wifi hacking will occur. By limiting how often you use your network, it will become less likely for your network to be identified.
